Which AirPods Should You Buy?
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it's easy to find yourself locked into Apple's ecosystem, what with the seamless continuity across the company's hardware. If you're looking for wireless earbuds and want to maintain that ease of use, you might naturally gravitate to the AirPods. They pair automatically with Apple gadgets and can switch automatically between them—handy when you're moving between a MacBook and an iPhone. More importantly, they deliver good sound quality and have a laundry list of top-end features, like excellent noise canceling, spatial audio, and a killer transparency mode.
But not all AirPods are equal. It can be tough to know which AirPods model is right for you. Below, we break down all the different types of AirPods in the lineup—from the standard AirPods to the AirPods Pro—to help you find the perfect Apple headphones based on your daily routine. Not a huge fan of the AirPod design? We made sure to include some more fashionable Beats too.
Check out our Best Wireless Headphones, Best Wireless Earbuds, and Best Cheap Headphones guides for more recommendations outside Apple's walled garden.
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Updated September 2024: We added our thoughts on the AirPods 4 and AirPods Max (with USB-C).
- Photograph: Apple
Best Overall
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) With USB-CThese are the latest AirPods Pro (8/10, WIRED Recommends) and the most feature-packed AirPods yet. They launched in 2023 and are equipped with a new Conversation Awareness feature, which turns down your music and lowers background noise when it detects you're having a conversation. It comes with Adaptive Transparency mode (first introduced with the second-gen AirPods Pro with Lightning in 2022); this combines noise cancellation and transparency to adjust the audio so you won't get the worst of a blaring siren but can still hear important sounds around you. These have an IP54 sweat- and dust-resistance rating (instead of the IPX4 on previous versions). They also have support for a new Lossless wireless protocol (at 20 bit/48 kHz) for seamless connectivity to the Apple Vision Pro.
The sound quality is above average with crisp highs, authoritative bass, and awesome noise canceling. WIRED editor Parker Hall noticed a more refined soundstage with more definition when listening to music. Watching a movie or TV show with its spatial audio feature also makes these some of our favorite buds for travel, and the call quality remains excellent. Battery life remains the same as its predecessor though, with up to six hours of listening time plus an extra 24 hours of charge from the case. Speaking of, the case comes equipped with a built-in speaker that plays a sound if you lose it. Thanks to the U1 chip, anyone using an iPhone 11 or newer can use Precision Finding in the Find My app, which gives you onscreen directions to the exact location of the case.
If you're still in the Lightning ecosystem: The second-gen AirPods Pro With Lightning ($189) (9/10, WIRED Recommends) came out only two years ago, and are nearly identical to the latest model, except the charging case has a Lightning port instead of USB-C. If your Apple devices use Lightning cables and you're not planning on switching them anytime soon, these earbuds are great. You'll still get noise canceling and transparency mode (adaptive transparency included), great sound, and the same charging case with support for MagSafe. Apple no longer sells them directly, but they're still available at third-party retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Just try to avoid spending more than $190.
- Photograph: Brenda Stolyar
Best Headphones
Apple AirPods MaxThe AirPods Max (8/10, WIRED Recommends) are the only over-ear headphones in Apple's audio lineup. For the steep price, you'll get top-notch sound comprised of rich bass, a massive soundstage, and excellent noise cancellation. It's tough to ignore the high-quality build too. It has a milled aluminum casing and a metal headband with mesh padding, along with fun color options, all of which create a super unique style. We're also fans of the Apple Watch-like crown that sits on top of the right ear cup, which controls the volume and cycles between the different noise modes. These headphones are also user-repairable, thanks to the replaceable magnetic ear cups and screwed-in components.
The downside? The AirPods Max don't have the best microphone quality. When I tested them, people on the other end of calls commented on how flat and echoey my voice sounded. They don't have a water-resistance rating either, so you shouldn't take these out in the rain or use them while working out. As for battery life, Apple claims up to 20 hours, which is 10 hours less than what you'd get from most other wireless headphones.
A New USB-C Version: The latest AirPods Max ($549) finally comes with USB-C. But that's the only new feature aside from the new color options which include blue, midnight, orange, purple, and starlight. We don't recommend upgrading to these if you already have the Lightning version. But if you've been waiting on a USB-C version, then these are certainly the ones to get.
- Photograph: Beats
If You Want Beats Instead
Beats Studio Buds +The Studio Buds+ are our favorite AirPods alternative. They come complete with active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and support for spatial audio. These are also not only one of the most comfortable earbuds we've tested but are extremely easy to use, thanks to the physical buttons on the exterior of each earbud. They're stylish! You can snag 'em in ivory, silver, black, and transparent.
We prefer the Studio Buds+ over the older Studio Buds, as they have better microphones for calls, 1.6X more noise reduction, and a larger 36 hours of battery life when combined with the charging case (the case has a USB Type-C port but no support for wireless charging). Even though Apple owns Beats, these buds work perfectly with both iPhone and Android. They're frequently on sale for as low as $130, so avoid MSRP.
- Photograph: Adrienne So
For Workouts
Beats Fit ProThe Beats Fit Pro (9/10, WIRED Recommends) are best for gym rats due to their ergonomic design. With soft silicone tips, squishy fins for better stability, and a fit test to ensure the buds sit properly in your ears, you don't have to worry about constantly fidgeting with them during a workout. On the outside of each bud is a simple, clicky button used for controls.
They deliver a detailed and punchy sound signature, excellent noise cancelation, and reliable microphones for calls. With noise canceling on, you'll get six hours of battery life and an additional 18 with the charging case. Like the Studio Buds+, they're compatible with both iOS and Android. These are also available in fun colors including yellow, pink, purple, and blue. During sale events, they frequently drop to $160.
★ A less expensive alternative: If you don't want to spend more than $100 on workout buds, the Beats Flex ($70) are our favorite budget option for Apple lovers. They come with quick pairing support, seamless Apple Music integration, and easy access to Siri. You'll also get crisp sound, a wide soundstage, and a 12-hour-plus battery life (complete with a USB-C port for charging).
Photograph: Parker HallAvoid These AirPods
Apple AirPods 4 (2024): The AirPods 4 are Apple's latest version of its entry-level AirPods (5/10, WIRED Reviews). You'll have the choice between the standard version ($129) or the model with ANC ($179). Unfortunately, they still lack eartips, the noise canceling isn't effective due to the lack of a proper seal, and they still offer only five-hour battery life. Plenty of other options sound as good for half the price—including options from Beats.
Photograph: AmazonAbout Those Older AirPods
Apple doesn't release new AirPods regularly. The only versions not mentioned in this guide are the first-generation AirPods and AirPods Pro. They're just outdated, and you'll likely only find refurbished models. If you're on a budget, look elsewhere or wait for a sale.
AirPods (1st Generation): Launched in 2016, these are Apple's first AirPods. They come with a charging case, solid sound quality, and access to Siri with a double tap. They're also powered by the W1 chip—Apple's proprietary chip designed specifically for AirPods. It's worth checking out the list of devices these are still compatible with across iPhone, Mac, and iPad.
AirPods Pro (1st Generation): These came out in 2019. They come with noise cancelation, transparency mode, adaptive EQ, and spatial audio. They're powered by an H1 chip, which is the same included in the second-gen AirPods Pro with Lightning and the AirPods (3rd Generation). You can see a list of supported Apple devices here.
Photograph: CASETIFYOur Favorite AirPods Accessories
There are tons of accessories that can help round out your AirPods experience. Below, we've listed some of our favorites—including cases, chargers, and replacement parts. Check out our Best AirPods Cases guide for more recommendations.
Mujjo Echelon AirPods Pro 2 Case for $39: This is one of our favorite AirPods cases. To reduce environmental impact, it uses a vegetable-tanning process and the blue leather is soft and thick. It also works with wireless charging, complete with the ability to see the charging light and hear the Find My speaker.
Apple MagSafe Charger for $29: If your AirPods have a wireless charging case, Apple's classic charging pad is a great option. You can use it to charge your AirPods, iPhone, or any Qi-compatible device.
Belkin 3-in-1 Qi2 Charging Stand for $130: We recommend a 3-in-1 wireless charger if you own an iPhone and an Apple Watch. This one is Qi2 certifed and can charge all three devices simultaneously. We prefer Belkin's tree-like structure because it saves space, but the pad version ($150) adds MagSafe support for AirPods. Check out the rest of our recommendations in our Best Apple 3-in-1 Wireless Chargers guide.
AirPods Max Cushions for $69: If you've worn out the cushions on your AirPods Max or you want to mix and match the colors, Apple sells replacement cushions on its site. The cushions are magnetic, so you can easily swap them out. These are specifically for the version with Lightning.
Nimble PowerKnit Cable (USB-C to Lighting) for $30: Yes, Apple includes a charging cable for its AirPods, but it's not the most durable—which is why we like this one from Nimble. It's also available in USB-C to USB-C ($25).
Photograph: AppleCommon Questions About AirPods
If you're hunting for your first pair of AirPods, you may have a few questions, such as proper cleaning methods and how to tinker with certain settings. We've got some answers to a handful of common questions about AirPods.
Do Airpods work with Android?
Yes, you can use AirPods with non-Apple devices, since they use the standard Bluetooth protocol. But you'll lose out on features like Siri integration, ear detection (it won't automatically pause audio when you take an AirPod out), and the ability to customize shortcuts on the double-tap feature. However, headphones from Beats usually offer broader support for Android.
Can you buy a single AirPod?
Yes. If you lose an AirPod, you can buy a replacement for the right or left AirPod through Apple. AppleCare+ doesn't cover lost or stolen AirPods, so it will cost you. You can use Apple's “Get an Estimate” tool to calculate the possible cost. The same applies if you lose the Charging Case. Your replacements will be new versions.
Why is only one AirPod working?
If you can't hear audio in an AirPod, make sure your case is fully charged. Then place both AirPods in the case and charge them for 30 seconds. From there, open the charging case and use your iPhone or iPad to check that each AirPod is charging (there should be a lightning bolt icon next to both). Put both AirPods in your ears and test the audio. If that doesn't work, you should reset your AirPods.
Why isn't the AirPods case charging?
Start by checking your connections. If you have the AirPods or AirPods Pro, make sure the cables are fully plugged into the case and power adapter. Allow your AirPods to charge for at least 15 minutes (you should use one of Apple's cables). If you have the AirPods Max, allow them to charge for at least five minutes. Then, open either the case on the AirPods or AirPods Pro or the Smart case on the AirPods Max and hold them near your iPhone or iPad. You should then see the charging icon appear when looking at the battery status. If that doesn't work, you should contact Apple Support.
If you lose an AirPod, can you find its location?
If you have the AirPods (3rd generation), AirPods Pro (all versions), and AirPods Max, you can track your AirPods using the Find My app. (You can't, however, track an empty AirPods case unless you have the 2nd-generation AirPods Pro.) Make sure the feature is turned on by going to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the “I” icon, and scroll down to turn on Find My Network. If it's already on, go to the Find My app, and under the Devices tab, tap on your AirPods. From there, you'll see the exact location of both your left bud and your right bud. If they aren't near you, tap Get Directions and it'll automatically open their location in Maps. If you're nearby, you can also press Tap Sound to listen for beeps. If you have AirPods Pro (2nd generation) along with an iPhone 11 or newer, you can also use Precision Finding.
If your AirPods show “No location found” or “Offline,” this means they're out of range or need to be charged, so you'll only see their last known location. At that point, you might be able to get directions, but you won't be able to use Find Nearby or play a sound. You'll get a notification on your Apple device if they do come back online.
Can you clean AirPods?
Yes. You can use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe down the AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max. But there are other additional steps you can take, depending on the type of AirPods you have. Apple has steps on how to properly clean each version here.
Why won't AirPods connect to my device?
If your AirPods won't connect, you should start by checking that your iPhone, iPad, and Mac are all updated to the latest version of their respective operating systems. Then, make sure both AirPods are charging, Bluetooth is on (Settings > Bluetooth), and double check that AirPods appear in your list of devices via Settings and that they're selected. If they aren't on the list, hold the button on the back of the charging case until the status light flashes white and follow the onscreen instructions.
How do you get rid of the crackling or static sounds on AirPods Pro?
If you're hearing crackling or static sounds from your AirPods Pro, make sure you're running the latest software. You should also check that your connected device is nearby and that there is no wireless interference or obstructions between you and your iPhone, iPad, or Mac (like walls or floors, a lot of Wi-Fi activity, wireless speakers, etc). If none of these are issues, try listening to audio from a different app to see if it's the app causing the problem. Otherwise, you can look into the AirPods Pro Service Program for sound issues.
Why isn't Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) working?
Double-check that you're running the latest software version on your Apple devices. When both AirPods Pro are in your ears, check that ANC is turned on (you can go to Settings > AirPods Pro > Noise Control on your iPhone). You should also check if Adaptive Audio is on. It helps to clean the microphone and speaker since earwax and debris can build up over time. If it's still not working, you can look into Apple's AirPods Pro Service Program for sound issues.
Can you turn off Siri Notifications?
Yes, if you don't want Siri annoyingly reading aloud text messages and other notifications while you're trying to listen to music or a podcast, you can turn them off. You can read step-by-step instructions here.
Photograph: AppleIs Now a Good Time to Buy?
If you're looking for AirPods, then yes. The company just launched two versions of the AirPods 4 (standard and with ANC), along with a USB-C version of the AirPods Max—complete with new colors. Meanwhile, the second-gen AirPods Pro are still extremely recent. The next-generation AirPods Pro will reportedly include a new design, chipset, and features, but aren't set to launch until 2025.
As for Beats, the Studio Buds+ came out last year. The Beats Fit Pro, on the other hand, came out in 2021. So, it's possible we could see the Fit Pro 2 sometime this year or some new variation. Still, the models we recommend above remain excellent and are plenty capable.
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