Best Apple AirPods to buy in 2023. Apple sells four types of AirPods, including three pairs of headphones and one pair of headphones. We compare them all to help you decide which is right for you.
The second-generation AirPods Pro are the latest in Apple’s lineup, but they shouldn’t be your only option. Here, we present all your options to help you choose the best model for your needs and budget. And to be more open-minded, we even recommend attractive alternatives from other manufacturers. Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page for an in-depth specs comparison.
Best Premium Buds
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation)
The amazing AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) deliver some of the best noise-cancelling performance of any earbuds we’ve tested, while delivering a pleasing sound that emphasizes bass and high frequency clarity. Their adaptive transparency mode is also so good that you might consider using the headphones as active, transparent earplugs at concerts. Our grip was relatively small – the IPX4 rating means that the case and headphones can only withstand light splashes, while the lack of an adjustable EQ continues to be annoying. Complaints aside, the latest AirPods Pro are the best in-ear AirPods.
What should you choose instead?
If you’re looking for the best in true wireless noise cancellation, the Bose QuietComfort II headphones ($299) have a slight edge over the AirPods Pro, along with slightly richer bass depth. and in-app equalizer. . Check out our detailed comparison between the two if you’re having trouble deciding.
Best over-ear AirPods
Apple AirPods Max
AirPods Max is notable for two reasons:
They’re the only over-ear headphones Apple sells, and they cost more than twice as much as the AirPods Pro. For the price, you get strong active noise cancellation and great sound quality. And while all in-ear AirPods use white plastic, these sleek headphones come in a variety of colors, including green, pink, silver, sky blue, and space gray.
That said, the AirPods Max is approaching their third anniversary, so we hesitate to recommend them in case an alternative is coming next year; $550 is a lot to spend on headphones that may not be on top for a long time. Should Apple decide to upgrade them at some point, we expect that to improve the included Smart Carrying Case, which only protects the headphones.
What should you choose instead?
Few noise-cancelling headphones cost as much as the AirPods Max. That means you can save quite a bit of cash with some always great alternatives, including the Bose QuietComfort 45 ($329) and the Sony WH-1000XM5 ($399).
Ideal for charging case options
Apple AirPods (3rd generation)
The third generation AirPods have an open design that does not block the ear canal. We’ve never been a fan of this approach as it often results in unbalanced sound, poor bass response, and a less secure fit. This iteration still feels a bit loose in the ears, but the sensors and internal microphones help deliver some of the best bass response we’ve ever heard from this type of headset. You don’t get Active Noise Canceling or Transparency modes here (the latter isn’t strictly necessary due to the open design), but the case significantly supports MagSafe and Qi wireless charging (if you pay for it). extra $10 for these capabilities).
What should you choose instead?
For the same price, the Beats Studio Buds+ offer safer in-ears, quality noise cancellation, more powerful sound than ever, and hands-free Siri access. They don’t support spatial audio but otherwise fit perfectly into Apple’s ecosystem. We also think the earbuds and carrying case look sleeker thanks to the transparent design, although unfortunately the latter doesn’t support wireless charging.
The most affordable AirPods
Apple AirPods (2nd generation)
Second-generation AirPods launched in early 2019 for $199, which might make their current $129 price point seem like a bargain. We don’t think they’re worth buying because they feel like a work in progress compared to the third-generation model. These older headphones offer much weaker audio performance, no waterproof rating, short battery life, and lack of spatial audio support. Also, the on-ear controls don’t work well.
What should you choose instead?
Nothing Ear ($99.99) headphones (sticky) fit better, deliver detailed sound, and cost less. They also have an IP54 rating suitable for exercise, a spec these AirPods can’t match. Finally, we love their transparent design. AirPods integrate more seamlessly with iOS, but Nothing’s companion app handles the basics well 바카라사이트.