When Apple launched the second-generation AirPods Pro, it promised a host of upgrades aimed at elevating the wireless earbud experience. Boasting advanced noise cancellation, improved audio quality, and longer battery life, the AirPods Pro 2 seemingly have all the ingredients of a perfect pair of earbuds.
But are they worth the investment, especially given the competition in the premium earbuds market?
This review takes a closer look at the design, comfort, sound quality, features, and overall performance of the Apple AirPods Pro Max 2. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of whether these earbuds belong in your tech arsenal.
Design and Comfort
When it comes to design, Apple sticks to its mantra of minimalism and practicality. The AirPods Pro 2 retain the familiar look of their predecessor, with the iconic stem design that’s become a hallmark of the AirPods lineup. However, subtle refinements make them feel even more premium.
Comfort and Fit
The AirPods Pro 2 take comfort up a notch by including four sizes of silicone ear tips compared to the usual three. The addition of an extra-small size caters to those with smaller ears, ensuring a snug and secure fit for everyone. They’re lightweight and sit comfortably during long listening sessions or workouts.
The earbuds are also sweat and water-resistant (IPX4), making them a reliable companion for gym-goers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re heading out for a run or sitting at your desk, the AirPods Pro 2 provide all-day comfort without causing fatigue.
Sound Quality
Apple has made significant strides in audio performance with the AirPods Pro 2. Powered by the new H2 chip and newly designed audio drivers, these earbuds deliver some of the richest and clearest sound Apple has offered to date.
Remarkable Audio Precision
The sound profile leans towards being warm and full-bodied, with a clear focus on providing a balanced listening experience. Highs are crisp without being piercing, mids are well-rounded, and the low end delivers satisfying bass without overwhelming the other frequencies.
Improved Adaptive EQ
The AirPods Pro 2 also come equipped with an improved Adaptive EQ. This feature uses real-time adjustments to tailor the audio output to the shape of your ear, ensuring that the sound remains consistently optimal and immersive. Whether you’re listening to a podcast, classical music, or bass-heavy tracks, the audio feels fine-tuned and dynamic.
Spatial Audio Enhancements
One standout feature is personalized spatial audio. Users can scan their ears via an iPhone to experience 360-degree immersive sound tailored to their specific ear profile. This allows you to feel as though the audio surrounds you, especially noticeable when watching movies or playing games.
For those upgrading from the original AirPods Pro, the leap in sound quality is immediately noticeable.
Noise Cancellation
Active noise cancellation (ANC) is one of the defining features of the AirPods Pro, and Apple claims the AirPods Pro 2 offer twice the noise cancellation capabilities of their predecessor.
Real Silence in a Noisy World
This claim isn’t just marketing hype. The upgraded ANC does a phenomenal job of blocking out ambient sounds—from the hum of an air conditioner to the crowds in a bustling cafe. Even low-frequency sounds like airplane engine noise are effectively eliminated, making these earbuds a top choice for frequent travelers.
Transparency Mode is also greatly enhanced, allowing users to seamlessly switch between blocking out the world and hearing their surroundings. The introduction of Adaptive Transparency goes a step further, intelligently reducing the intensity of loud environmental noise without completely muting the ambient sound.
Battery Life
One of the more noticeable upgrades in the AirPods Pro 2 is the improved battery life. While the first generation offered 4.5 hours of listening time with ANC activated, the AirPods Pro 2 deliver 6 hours on a single charge.
Extended Listening Time
With the charging case, users get a total of up to 30 hours of listening time compared to the earlier 24 hours. The charging case itself now supports MagSafe, wireless charging, and USB-C.
Additionally, you can now use the Find My feature to locate the charging case, which comes with a built-in speaker that emits sound for easier tracking. These small yet impactful conveniences further enhance the overall experience.
Features and Functionality
The AirPods Pro 2 come packed with features that cater to both audiophiles and everyday users.
- H2 Chip Power: The new chip enhances every element of the earbuds, from noise cancellation to real-time audio processing.
- Find My Integration: Alongside the case’s new speaker, a U1 chip allows for precise location tracking through Apple’s Find My app.
- Touch Controls: Unlike the previous model, the AirPods Pro 2 now include capacitive touch controls on the stems for adjusting volume with a simple swipe.
- Seamless Apple Ecosystem: Switching between devices in the Apple ecosystem is seamless. Whether you’re hopping from a Mac to an iPhone or iPad, the AirPods Pro 2 handle the transition effortlessly.
While other brands offer similar technology, the smooth integration with Apple devices gives the AirPods Pro 2 an undeniable edge.
Pros and Cons
To weigh up if the AirPods Pro 2 are a worthy investment, here’s a quick summary of their pros and cons:
Pros
- Outstanding noise cancellation and transparency mode
- Personalized spatial audio for immersive sound
- Improved battery life and charging options
- Comfortable fit with four ear tip sizes
- Seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem
Cons
- Expensive compared to competitors
- No significant design overhaul
- Limited customization outside of Apple devices
Are the AirPods Pro 2 Worth It
The Apple AirPods Pro Max 2 deliver an undeniably premium experience. From sound and noise cancellation to features that integrate seamlessly with other Apple devices, they’re at the forefront of wireless earbud innovation.
However, they come at a premium price, and users outside of the Apple ecosystem may not see the full benefit. If you’re heavily invested in Apple’s lineup and value exceptional audio quality, the AirPods Pro 2 are a fantastic upgrade. For others, the decision may depend on whether the features justify the price in comparison to competitors.
