Apple AirPods Pro 2 Review (Truly Wireless Review)

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The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) are a leap forward in wireless audio technology, delivering an impressive combination of comfort, sound quality, and advanced features. These might be the perfect choice for anyone considering upgrading their earbuds or diving into the Apple ecosystem. Here’s a detailed review to help you decide if they’re worth the investment.

Design and Comfort

At first glance, the AirPods Pro 2 don’t look drastically different from their predecessors, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Apple’s iconic design is sleek, compact, and instantly recognizable. The earbuds come with interchangeable silicone tips in four sizes (XS, S, M, L), ensuring a snug fit for most ears. This addition makes them more inclusive and allows for better noise isolation.

The case itself has seen some thoughtful upgrades. It now features a lanyard loop for added convenience, a built-in speaker to help you locate it with Find Me, and improved durability with IPX4 water and sweat resistance. These small but significant changes make the case feel more practical and robust.

Sound Quality

The audio experience on the AirPods Pro 2 is where these earbuds truly shine. Powered by Apple’s new H2 chip, they deliver richer bass, clearer mids, and crisper highs. The sound quality is top-notch whether you’re listening to your favorite playlist, watching movies, or taking calls.

Spatial Audio, one of Apple’s standout features, is even better with the AirPods Pro 2. It creates an immersive listening experience, especially with Dolby Atmos-supported content. The personalized Spatial Audio feature scans your ears (using your iPhone’s TrueDepth camera) to tailor the sound to your unique profile. It’s a subtle but impactful touch that audiophiles will appreciate.

Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on the AirPods Pro 2 is a game-changer. Apple claims it’s twice as effective as the original AirPods Pro, and it’s not just marketing hype. These earbuds excel at blocking out low-frequency noises like airplane engines or office chatter. Even in a noisy coffee shop, the ANC creates a cocoon of silence that lets you focus on your music or work.

Transparency mode, on the other hand, lets you stay aware of your surroundings without removing the earbuds. It’s perfect for situations where you need to hear announcements or have a quick conversation. The transition between ANC and Transparency mode is seamless, and the adaptive transparency adjusts to loud environmental noises to protect your hearing.

Battery Life

Battery life has always been a critical factor for wireless earbuds, and the AirPods Pro 2 deliver solid performance. You get up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge with ANC enabled, and the case provides an additional 30 hours. This is a notable improvement over the first-generation AirPods Pro. The case supports wireless charging, MagSafe, and now USB-C, making it more versatile for users with different charging setups.

Connectivity and Features

The H2 chip not only enhances sound quality but also improves connectivity and efficiency. Pairing with Apple devices is effortless, thanks to the one-tap setup. Switching between devices in the Apple ecosystem is smooth and intuitive, a feature that Android users will envy.

The earbuds also come with a skin-detect sensor that ensures accurate play/pause functionality. This means your music pauses when you take out an earbud and resumes when you put it back in. Additionally, the new volume controls on the stem are a welcome upgrade. Swiping up or down lets you adjust the volume without reaching for your phone or asking Siri.

Speaking of Siri, the hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality works flawlessly. You can make calls, send messages, or control playback with simple voice commands. The AirPods Pro 2 also support audio sharing, letting you connect two sets of AirPods to a single device—great for watching movies with a friend.

Durability and Build

The AirPods Pro 2 are built to withstand daily wear and tear. Both the earbuds and the case have an IPX4 rating, making them resistant to sweat and light splashes. This makes them suitable for workouts or outdoor activities, though they’re not designed for heavy rain or submersion.

Who Are They For?

The AirPods Pro 2 are ideal for several types of users:

  • Apple Enthusiasts: If you’re already in the Apple ecosystem, these earbuds integrate seamlessly with your devices.
  • Commuters and Travelers: The excellent noise cancellation and long battery life make them perfect for noisy environments and long journeys.
  • Casual Listeners: Even if you’re not an audiophile, the sound quality and convenience will elevate your listening experience.
  • Fitness Enthusiasts: The sweat-resistant design and comfortable fit make them great for workouts.

Downsides

While the AirPods Pro 2 are impressive, they’re not without flaws. The $249 retail price (or even the discounted $168.99 on Amazon during sales) might be steep for some. Additionally, they’re best suited for Apple users. While they work with Android devices, you’ll miss out on many features like Spatial Audio and seamless device switching.

Verdict

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) are a significant upgrade over the original model, offering better sound quality, improved noise cancellation, and thoughtful design tweaks. At $168.99 during a Prime Day sale, they’re an excellent value for anyone in the Apple ecosystem. If you’ve been holding out for a premium pair of wireless earbuds, these are worth every penny.

That said, if you’re not heavily invested in Apple’s ecosystem, there are other great options available for Android users. But for Apple fans, the AirPods Pro 2 are hard to beat. They’re not just a pair of earbuds; they’re an essential part of the Apple experience.

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