When Apple unveiled the original AirPods Pro in 2019, they set a new benchmark for true wireless earbuds, combining premium sound quality, active noise cancellation (ANC), and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. Fast forward to 2022, and the AirPods Pro 2 has arrived, promising even more refinements and features. After spending several weeks with these earbuds, I can confidently say that Apple has once again raised the bar. Here’s my in-depth review of the AirPods Pro 2.
Design and Comfort: Familiar Yet Refined
At first glance, the AirPods Pro 2 look nearly identical to their predecessor. They retain the same iconic stem design and compact charging case, but there are subtle improvements. The earbuds themselves are slightly lighter, and the fit feels more secure, thanks to redesigned silicone ear tips that come in four sizes (XS, S, M, L). Whether you’re running, commuting, or just lounging, the AirPods Pro 2 stays comfortably in place.
The charging case has also seen a minor upgrade. It now features a lanyard loop for easier carrying and is IPX4-rated for water and sweat resistance, making it more durable for on-the-go use. MagSafe compatibility ensures effortless wireless charging, and the case itself supports Find My integration, so you’ll never lose it.
Sound Quality: A Step Above
The AirPods Pro 2 delivers a noticeable improvement in audio quality. Apple has introduced a new custom driver and amplifier, resulting in richer bass, clearer mids, and more detailed highs. Whether you’re listening to your favorite playlist, watching movies, or taking calls, the sound is immersive and well-balanced.
One of the standout features is Adaptive EQ, which automatically tunes the music to the shape of your ear. This ensures a consistent listening experience, no matter the genre. The spatial audio with dynamic head tracking also makes a return, creating a theater-like experience that’s particularly impressive when watching movies or playing games.
Active Noise Cancellation: Best-in-Class
The ANC on the AirPods Pro 2 is nothing short of phenomenal. Apple claims it’s twice as effective as the original, and I can attest to that. Whether you’re in a noisy coffee shop, on a crowded train, or near construction work, the AirPods Pro 2 block out almost all external noise. The new H2 chip powers this improvement, enabling more advanced algorithms to cancel out unwanted sounds.
Transparency mode has also been enhanced, allowing you to hear your surroundings more naturally. A new Adaptive Transparency feature automatically reduces loud environmental noises (like sirens or construction) while still letting you stay aware of your surroundings. It’s a game-changer for urban commuters and runners.
Longer and More Reliable
Battery life has always been a strong suit for AirPods, and the Pro 2 takes it up a notch. With ANC enabled, you get up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, and the charging case provides an additional 30 hours. That’s a significant improvement over the first-generation model. A quick 5-minute charge gives you about an hour of playback, which is perfect for those last-minute dashes out the door.
Features and Integration: Seamless as Ever
If you’re an Apple user, the AirPods Pro 2 are a no-brainer. They pair instantly with your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, and switching between devices is effortless. The new touch controls on the stem allow you to adjust volume with a swipe—a feature that was sorely missing in the previous model. You can also press the stem to play/pause music, skip tracks, or answer calls.
The integration with Siri is as smooth as ever, and the earbuds now support Hey Siri without needing to tap them. Additionally, the AirPods Pro 2 support Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a stable connection with minimal latency.
Call Quality Crystal Clear
The AirPods Pro 2 excel in call quality, thanks to improved beamforming microphones and voice isolation technology. Whether you’re on a Zoom call or chatting with a friend, your voice comes through clearly, even in noisy environments. Background noise is effectively suppressed, making these earbuds a great choice for remote workers.
Premium, but Worth It
At $249, the AirPods Pro 2 are undeniably expensive, but they justify their price tag with top-tier performance, build quality, and features. If you’re already invested in the Apple ecosystem, they’re an easy recommendation. However, Android users might find better value elsewhere, as some features are exclusive to Apple devices.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with Adaptive EQ
- Best-in-class active noise cancellation
- Improved battery life
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Enhanced call quality
- IPX4-rated water and sweat resistance
Cons:
- Expensive compared to competitors
- Limited customization for Android users
- No significant design overhaul
The Best Just Got Better
The AirPods Pro 2 is a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation and quality. They build on the strengths of the original AirPods Pro while addressing minor pain points like battery life and touch controls. If you’re looking for the best true wireless earbuds on the market, the AirPods Pro 2 are hard to beat. They’re perfect for audiophiles, commuters, and anyone who values a seamless, premium listening experience.
For Apple users, these earbuds are a must-have. For everyone else, they’re still an excellent choice—if you’re willing to pay the premium. The AirPods Pro 2 aren’t just an incremental upgrade; they’re a statement of what true wireless earbuds can achieve.
Rating: 9.5/10
Would you consider upgrading to the AirPods Pro 2? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!