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Apple recently introduced the new third-generation AirPods. But how do the new AirPods Pro differ from the "regular" ones? Here's an overview.
There have been plenty of rumors about new AirPods – in the end, the only question was “when.” Now it’s officially. But many people still don't know all the differences to the previous generations. The biggest innovation is clearly the new in-ear design. This has enabled the long-awaited noise cancellation function. The new ANC feature appears in two different modes. Users can choose between active noise cancellation and transparency mode. The latter allows users to perceive sounds in their surroundings even when music is playing. Apple describes the feature as follows:
Active Noise Cancellation on AirPods Pro uses two microphones combined with advanced software to continuously adjust to the individual fit of the ear and earbud. This removes background noise to provide a uniquely customized, high-quality noise-cancelling experience that allows a user to focus on what they're listening to - whether it's a favorite song or a phone call.
In addition to noise cancellation, the new Pro earbuds have an adaptive equalizer. This means that it automatically adjusts the low and mid frequencies to the shape of the respective ear. The AirPods Pro therefore offer an individual listening experience. They are also sweat and water resistant, but not suitable for water sports - please note.
This is what the AirPods Pro and regular AirPods have in common
Of course, there are also similarities. For example, both have the same H1 chip – this enables both versions to use the popular “Hey Siri” feature. This is an advantage that the first generation of AirPods does not offer. Apple promises a total battery life of 24 hours for the charging case. However, there is a small but subtle difference. While the second generation can provide around 5 hours of playback on a single charge, the AirPods Pro only manage 4.5 hours according to the data sheet. However, this small difference is due to the ANC feature. Apple notes in the footer that with noise cancellation deactivated, the battery life of the Pro version could also be around 5 hours.
The controls, size and weight in comparison
Another new feature is the pressure sensor. While the AirPods 1 and 2 can only process single and double taps, the AirPods Pro's controls include single, double, and triple taps. There's also a "press and hold" option to switch between active and transparent noise cancellation. Due to the new design, the AirPods Pro are slightly shorter than their predecessors, but also slightly deeper and wider. In terms of weight, the AirPods Pro are slightly heavier at 5.4 grams each, compared to the AirPods 1 and 2, which weigh around 4 grams.
Help – my ears are too big! Will the AirPods Pro fit me?
However, many users ask themselves a particularly important question: "Will the AirPods Pro fit me?" Those who had problems with the regular AirPods shouldn't fear the same with the Pro version. The AirPods Pro use a rubber earpiece. These are available in three different sizes. This means the AirPods Pro should fit every ear—small, large, or anything in between.
Prices and Features
Finally, we would like to clarify the prices and the contents, because there is a remarkable surprise here. While the second generation AirPods are delivered with a normal charging case or optionally with a Qi-enabled charging case, the AirPods Pro are only available with a Qi-enabled charging case. But now comes the highlight. The AirPods Pro are not delivered with a simple USB-A to Lightning cable. Apple includes a USB-C to Lightning cable with the new plugs. Finally, of course, we also want to clarify the question of price. The AirPods Pro cost around 279 euros, while the AirPods 2 are available for 229 euros or 179 euros. With the latter, the set can be ordered with either a Qi-enabled charging case or the normal charging case. Do you want new headphones? Then take a look at our Amazon Storefront over – there we have all the current AirPods as well as Beats Models summarized for you. (Image: Apple)
