Apple AirPods are a great option for wireless headphones, but as Apple expands the line, it is difficult to select a model. We'll compare them all to see which AirPods are the perfect fit for you..
AirPods (second generation): the original
the Second-generation Apple AirPods, sometimes called AirPods 2, they're the closest you can get to AirPods as they were when Apple introduced them at 2016. This model has some cool features that the originals didn't have, mainly improved sound quality and better Siri integration.
Even if the original AirPods were available new, there would be no reason to buy them instead of this model. All the positives about the original AirPods, the fit some people love, as an example, it is also present in the AirPods 2.
The AirPods 2 They're perfect if you're looking for on-the-go headphones and don't want or need the features that leaked from AirPods Pro to AirPods 3.
AirPods (third generation): the update
Unlike the update from the original AirPods to the second generation AirPods, the introduction of 3rd generation AirPods, sometimes called AirPods 3, saw some major changes from the original. The first is the most polarizing: the shape.
Apple's original AirPods got their shape from the EarPods before them. This way works great for some people, while others do not seem to prevent them from falling. If you are satisfied with the fit of the original AirPods, it is feasible that the AirPods 3 and its more inspired by the professionals may not work for you.
On the other hand, the AirPods 3 They get a lot of the best features of the AirPods Pro, without noise cancellation. Spatial audio, which can make videos sound like they are playing directly in front of you, it's a nice new feature, same way as adaptive equalizer.
If you consider that the built-in controls of the original AirPods and AirPods 2 they are restrictive, the “force sensor controls” more sensitive legacy AirPods Pro are another great addition to the AirPods 3. Even better, the AirPods 3 they are resistant to sweat and water. , more sensitive legacy AirPods Pro are another great addition to the AirPods “standard”.
AirPods Pro: noise canceling
Until the introduction of the AirPods 3, the AirPods Pro were the only in-the-ear model that supported many important functions. Now that most of those features have made their way to standard AirPods, Why should you select the Pro?
AirPods Pro are the only internal AirPods with active noise cancellation. Although it is not as effective as it is in on-ear headphones like the AirPods Max, cancellation here is still useful.
This isn't the only audio upgrade you get with the AirPods Pro. The same microphones that AirPods Pro use for noise cancellation can also let in sound. Apple calls this mode transparency, and it's incredibly useful if you love your AirPods but still need to hear what's going on around you, like in the gym.
You can even use this feature to act as a hearing aid by enabling Conversation Boost.. This helps you hear conversations directly in front of you and, from October 2021, it is only enabled on AirPods Pro.
Of course, additional audio processing comes at a higher price, but if you value noise cancellation or transparency mode, it is important to highlight the extra money.
AirPods Max: the big headphones
We are looking at the AirPods Max because, Yes, are part of the AirPods line. At the same time, They're very different from the other AirPods on this list thanks to the over-the-ear form factor.
First, there is the comfort factor. Even with the different size tips that come with AirPods 3 y AirPods Pro, in-ear headphones fit differently for everyone. With AirPods Max, you don't have the same concerns.
Comfort is subjective, but the AirPods Max seem to be comfortable for most of the people who buy them, and they also have a bigger sound. Many of the key features of AirPods, like Siri integration, spatial audio and adaptive equalizer, they're here, just like Max's younger siblings.
AirPods Max have a price tag that matches the name, and this will be a deal breaker for some people. Having said this, the audio and build quality justify the premium price.
What about other wireless headphones?
Although you can use AirPods with Android and Windows devices, are easier to use with Apple devices, and this will probably influence if you buy them. If you are all Apple all the time, AirPods are an easy option. If you float between multiple devices and platforms, that choice becomes less easy.
Of course, AirPods aren't the only name in town when it comes to audio on Apple devices. If it is absolutely not sold on AirPods, take a look at our roundup of the best wireless headphones for iPhone and iPad.
