AirPods Pro 2 Review: Apple’s Best Just Got Better

Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 (2nd generation) build on the success of their first-generation Pro earbuds, adding meaningful upgrades to the sound quality, noise cancellation, battery life, and overall user experience. Launched with much fanfare, the AirPods Pro 2 take an already excellent product and refine it to near perfection.

With features like adaptive transparency, personalized spatial audio, and a more powerful H2 chip, these are not just headphones—they’re an experience. Let’s dive into what makes the AirPods Pro 2 stand out and see if they’re worth the upgrade.

What’s New in AirPods Pro 2?

The AirPods Pro 2 have been upgraded across the board, with changes in hardware and software that make a tangible difference in everyday use. Key upgrades include:

1. H2 Chip: A new custom-designed chip that improves audio quality, noise cancellation, and power efficiency.
2. Improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Up to twice as effective as the first generation.
3. Adaptive Transparency Mode: Dynamically reduces loud noises in real-time while still letting the outside world in.
4. Personalized Spatial Audio: Uses your iPhone’s camera to create a 3D sound profile unique to your ear shape.
5. Battery Life: Upgraded to 6 hours per charge (30 hours with the case).
6. MagSafe Charging Case: Now includes a speaker, lanyard loop, and Find My support for better tracking.
7. Touch Volume Controls: Swipe up or down on the stem to adjust the volume.

Design and Comfort: Familiar Yet Better

At first glance, the AirPods Pro 2 look very similar to their predecessors. Apple has kept the classic white design with short stems, but the changes are in the details.

Key Design Features:

1. New Ear Tips: A smaller XS size is now included, making it easier for users with smaller ears to get a perfect fit.
2. Lightweight and Comfortable: The design remains ergonomic, ensuring long listening sessions are comfortable.
3. Case Improvements: The charging case now features:
   • A built-in speaker for status sounds and tracking via Find My.
   • A lanyard loop for added portability.

Despite being largely unchanged visually, the small enhancements make the AirPods Pro 2 more user-friendly and adaptable.

Sound Quality: A Big Step Forward

The H2 chip powers a significant leap in sound quality. Apple has worked on improving every aspect of the listening experience, and it shows.

Highlights:

1. Crisp and Balanced Audio: The mids and highs are clear and precise, with no distortion at higher volumes. The bass is punchy without overpowering the rest of the mix.
2. Adaptive EQ: Automatically tunes the sound to fit your ear shape for a more natural listening experience.
3. Personalized Spatial Audio: By scanning your ear shape with an iPhone camera, the AirPods Pro 2 create a 3D audio profile that’s tailored to you. This works brilliantly with Dolby Atmos content, offering immersive surround sound.
4. Improved Drivers: Custom-designed drivers deliver a wider soundstage and richer dynamics, making music and podcasts feel more engaging.

Noise Cancellation and Transparency: Best-in-Class

Apple claims the AirPods Pro 2 offer twice the noise cancellation of the original AirPods Pro, and in real-world use, the difference is noticeable.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC):

• Blocks out low-frequency hums, such as airplane engines or air conditioners, better than ever before.
• Handles higher frequencies, like voices, more effectively, making them ideal for noisy environments like cafes or public transit.

Adaptive Transparency Mode:

• One of the standout features of the AirPods Pro 2, this mode lets outside sounds in but reduces loud or harsh noises—like sirens or construction equipment—instantly.
• Perfect for staying aware of your surroundings without feeling overwhelmed by noise.

Battery Life: All-Day Listening

Apple has extended the battery life of the AirPods Pro 2, a welcome upgrade for frequent users.

Battery Specs:

• Earbuds: 6 hours of listening time (up from 4.5 hours in the first generation) with ANC on.
• Charging Case: An additional 24 hours, bringing the total to 30 hours.
• Fast Charging: A quick 5-minute charge gives you up to 1 hour of listening time.

The charging case supports MagSafe, Qi wireless charging, and Lightning, offering flexibility for recharging on the go.

Controls and Features: Intuitive and Versatile

Apple has added touch volume controls to the AirPods Pro 2, a feature users have been asking for. Now, you can swipe up or down on the stem to adjust the volume without reaching for your phone.

Other Features:

1. Seamless Pairing: As always, pairing with Apple devices is effortless. Just open the case near your iPhone, and you’re good to go.
2. Find My Integration: Both the earbuds and the case can be tracked individually using Apple’s Find My app.
3. Speaker on Case: The built-in speaker on the case plays sounds to help you locate it, even when it’s hidden.
4. IPX4 Rating: The earbuds and case are resistant to sweat and light splashes, making them suitable for workouts and light rain.

Performance for Calls: Crystal Clear Communication

The AirPods Pro 2 excel not just at music but also for voice calls. Thanks to the H2 chip and updated microphone design, call quality is noticeably better.

Key Features:

1. Noise Reduction: Wind and background noise are minimized, ensuring your voice comes through clearly.
2. FaceTime Audio: High-quality audio during FaceTime calls makes conversations feel more natural.

Whether you’re on a work call or chatting with friends, the AirPods Pro 2 deliver an excellent experience.

Who Are the AirPods Pro 2 For?

The AirPods Pro 2 are ideal for a wide range of users:

• Music Lovers: Superior sound quality and spatial audio make them perfect for audiophiles.
• Commuters: Industry-leading noise cancellation and transparency mode are great for traveling or commuting.
• Apple Ecosystem Users: If you’re already using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, the seamless integration makes these a no-brainer.
• Fitness Enthusiasts: The sweat-resistant design and secure fit make them great for workouts.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Exceptional Noise Cancellation: Truly best-in-class performance.
2. Rich, Balanced Audio: Improved soundstage and clarity.
3. Personalized Features: Adaptive EQ and spatial audio tailored to you.
4. Improved Battery Life: 6 hours per charge with ANC on.
5. Touch Volume Controls: Easy and intuitive to use.
6. Find My Integration: Makes losing your AirPods much harder.

Cons:

1. Price: At $249, they remain one of the more expensive options on the market.
2. Limited Android Features: While they work with Android devices, key features like spatial audio are limited.

Final Verdict

The AirPods Pro 2 are a worthy successor to Apple’s original Pro earbuds, offering meaningful improvements in almost every area. Whether you’re looking for the best noise cancellation, exceptional sound quality, or a reliable companion for your Apple devices, these earbuds deliver.

If you’re already an AirPods Pro user, the upgrades in the 2nd generation are worth considering, especially if you value better noise cancellation and improved battery life. For new buyers, the AirPods Pro 2 represent the pinnacle of wireless earbuds for Apple users.