Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen wireless earbuds review with active noise cancellation features

Description

Unboxing and First Impressions

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen), model MQD83AM/A, arrived in sleek, minimalist packaging, which instantly screamed premium quality. Holding the charging case in my hand, it felt compact and lightweight, yet sturdy. The design, as expected from Apple, is clean, modern, and highly functional. I appreciated the MagSafe Charging Case, which not only provides multiple charging options but also includes a handy lanyard loop—a small yet thoughtful addition for those prone to misplacing tiny gadgets. The earbuds themselves are crafted with precision, and the inclusion of four silicone tip sizes (XS, S, M, L) makes it clear that Apple is aiming for a perfect fit for everyone.

Audio Performance That Packs a Punch

From the moment I hit play, the audio quality blew me away. Thanks to the Apple-designed H2 chip, the sound is richer and more immersive than ever. The low-distortion custom-built driver delivers an incredible balance of crisp high notes and deep, resonant bass. Whether I was listening to a podcast or blasting my favorite playlist, the audio was clear and lifelike. The Personalized Spatial Audio feature, which tailors the sound profile specifically for your ears, added a new dimension to music and movies. It genuinely felt like I was sitting in a mini-theater in my living room, thanks to the dynamic head tracking.

Key Benefits

• Exceptional sound quality with balanced bass and treble.
• Personalized Spatial Audio creates a more immersive listening experience.
• Advanced H2 chip ensures smarter noise cancellation and superior performance.

Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode

The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on these earbuds is nothing short of revolutionary. Apple claims it’s twice as effective as the previous generation, and I’d have to agree. I tested them on a noisy commute, and the difference was night and day. Background chatter, engine hums, and even loud announcements were reduced to a whisper. On the flip side, the Adaptive Transparency Mode is a lifesaver. It adjusts dynamically to let you hear important sounds like sirens or conversations without removing the earbuds, which I found invaluable during outdoor runs or while working in a café.

Merits

• 2x better ANC, making them ideal for noisy environments.
• Adaptive Transparency Mode intelligently balances external noise.

Comfort and Fit

Apple nailed comfort with these. The customizable silicone tips ensure a snug fit, even during intense workouts or long listening sessions. I have weirdly shaped ears, and finding earbuds that stay put is usually a struggle, but these didn’t budge. The acoustic seal created by the tips not only enhances sound quality but also boosts the effectiveness of the noise cancellation. I handed them to my sister, who has much smaller ears, and the XS tips worked perfectly for her. It’s rare to see this level of inclusivity in audio gear, and I genuinely appreciated it.

Control Features That Make Life Easier

The controls on these earbuds are intuitive and practical. Swiping the stem to adjust the volume felt natural and eliminated the need to fumble with my phone. Pressing the stem to play, pause, answer calls, or switch between modes was seamless. Siri integration, activated by a simple “Hey Siri,” added another layer of convenience. It’s small touches like these that make the AirPods Pro stand out in a crowded market.

Battery Life and Charging Options

Battery life has seen a major upgrade. With ANC enabled, I got around 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, which is a 33% improvement over the first generation. The charging case extends the total listening time to 30 hours, and the multiple charging options—MagSafe, Apple Watch charger, Lightning connector, or Qi-certified pads—offer unparalleled flexibility. I charged the earbuds using my Apple Watch charger, and it was surprisingly convenient. Plus, the Precision Finding feature in the case is a blessing for someone as forgetful as me.

Drawbacks

• Limited compatibility with non-Apple devices.
• The Lightning connector feels outdated compared to USB-C.
• Premium pricing may not appeal to budget-conscious buyers.

Competing Products

Comparing the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) to the Sony WF-1000XM4, I noticed some trade-offs. Sony’s earbuds offer better battery life and a more robust EQ customization through their app. However, Apple’s Personalized Spatial Audio and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem give it the upper hand for iPhone users. The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, while excellent in noise cancellation, feel bulkier and less comfortable for prolonged use. For Android users, Samsung’s Galaxy Buds Pro 2 are a strong contender, but they lack the same level of noise cancellation and spatial audio precision found here.

Cost-Effectiveness

While these earbuds come with a premium price tag, the value proposition is undeniable for Apple enthusiasts. The combination of advanced noise cancellation, immersive sound, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem makes them worth every penny. However, for casual listeners or those on a tighter budget, the cost might be a hurdle. That said, if you’re invested in the Apple ecosystem, these are more of a necessity than a luxury.

Additional information