Apple recently launched a new “Pro” version of its wireless headphones, the AirPods Pro. These offer quite a few additional features compared to the 2nd generation AirPods released in March of this year.
In this article, we will see all the differences between the AirPods Pro and AirPods 2, to help you make your choice between the two models.
AirPods Pro vs AirPods 2 comparison: the main differences
As the name suggests, the AirPods Pro come with additional features compared to the AirPods 2. Features that come at a price, since it costs €279 for the AirPods Pro compared to €229 for the AirPods 2 (with charging case). wireless).
Here are the main differences:
- Active noise reduction
- Transparency Mode
- Water and sweat resistance (IPX4 certification)
- Adaptive equalization
- Audio quality
- In-ear design with interchangeable tips (for a better fit in the ear)
- Size and shape of the case
In-ear design
The in-ear design with silicone tips in three sizes (small, medium and large), allows you to personalize the fit in the ear (depending on its morphology), by changing the tips in question.
© Apple
There is even a feature in the AirPods Pro settings, which allows you to test whether the tips are adapted to the shape of the user's ear. Incidentally, this in-ear design allows passive physical isolation from external noise, to a certain extent.
Comparatively, the AirPods 2 offer a design that is not “customizable”, so for those who are not lucky enough to have an ear compatible with traditional AirPods, they will have to opt for AirPods or others. wireless headphones (after testing).
Also note that the stem is shorter on the AirPods Pro, which makes this model more discreet than the AirPods 2.
Active noise reduction
This active noise reduction helps reduce external noise using two microphones. This works thanks to an external microphone which detects ambient noise and neutralizes it with noise canceling, but also an internal facing microphone which detects unwanted noise and also neutralizes it.
As a result, the user has the impression of being in his own bubble and in peace, whether in the street, a noisy café, or even on a plane (to be verified).
© Apple
Transparency Mode
The AirPods Pro include a so-called “Transparency” mode, which allows you to pause noise reduction, letting outside sounds pass through so you can chat naturally with people near you.
This transparency mode is quickly activated with a long press on the stem of the AirPods Pro.
© Apple
Water and sweat resistance
AirPods Pro are the first models in the AirPods range to offer IPX4 certified water and sweat resistance. Which can be practical for sports sessions, but also for use in light rain (not a deluge).
The IPX4 rating of a product means that the product is suitable for all climatic conditions and is resistant to heavy splashes of water. However, it does not withstand immersion.
Adaptive equalization
Like HomePod which adapts to the listening environment, AirPods Pro offer adaptive equalization technology. The latter modifies the sound according to the shape of the ear, so as to offer the best result for each user.
Audio quality
© iPhon.fr
The AirPods Pro integrate a high dynamic range amplifier and long excursion speakers, which provides better sound than the AirPods 2. For our part, we noticed improvement in the bass and midrange.
This better audio quality is more easily noticeable when noise reduction is activated.
Size and shape of the case
The AirPods Pro case is lower, but more elongated than the AirPods case. But according to our tests, it still fits easily in a pocket by changing its orientation (portrait). Both cases are compatible with wireless charging, however it is possible to opt for a wired charging case only for AirPods 2, which is less expensive than the wireless option.
© iPhon.fr
Autonomy
Apple announces a battery life of 5 hours of listening time with a listening volume at 50% on AirPods 2, and 4.5 hours on AirPods Pro when noise reduction is activated. By deactivating noise reduction, the battery life of AirPods Pro increases to 5 hours.
The price
Finally we end on the financing aspect of this comparison, the AirPods Pro are sold at €279, while the AirPods 2 with wireless charging case are sold for €50 less. It is possible to further lower the bill to €179 by opting for AirPods 2 with a classic charging case (without the wireless option).
Which model did you choose?
Deputy editor-in-chief, also known under the pseudonym Teza. Former video games journalist, who has been immersed in technology and Apple products since his very first iPhone 3GS in 2009. He has since worked for several American tech sites and now for iPhon.fr. Incidentally YouTuber and Apple product specialist on the MobileAddict channel. To contact me: maxime[a]iphon.fr
