Compare Apple AirPods (2nd Gen)

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Apple AirPods 2nd generation

Apple AirPods (2nd Gen)

Brand:

Apple

Launch Year:

2019

Price:

$129 USD with standard charging case, $179 USD with wireless charging case (original MSRP)

Connectivity & Codecs:

Bluetooth 5.0 with AAC and SBC codec support, H1 chip for optimized Apple device connectivity, and Class 1 extended range.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC):

No – Open-ear design provides natural sound passthrough without active noise control.

Battery Life:

Up to 5 hours listening time (earbuds), up to 24 hours total with charging case, 15-minute charge provides approximately 3 hours of listening time.

IP Rating:

No official IP rating (not water resistant)

Driver Type & Impedance:

Custom Apple-designed dynamic drivers, impedance specifications not publicly disclosed.

Pros:

  • H1 chip provides faster connection and switching
  • Hands-free “Hey Siri” voice activation
  • Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem
  • Available with wireless charging case option
  • Automatic ear detection with optical sensors
  • Quick and easy pairing process
  • Comfortable open-ear design
  • Good call quality with dual microphones

Cons:

  • Open design doesn’t provide noise isolation
  • No Active Noise Cancellation feature
  • One-size-fits-all design may not suit everyone
  • Limited touch controls compared to Pro models
  • No water resistance rating
  • Audio quality not as refined as Pro models

Description:

The Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) represent an evolution of Apple’s groundbreaking wireless earbuds, incorporating the H1 chip for enhanced performance and connectivity. These earbuds maintain the iconic open-ear design of the original AirPods while delivering improved audio quality and more stable wireless connection. The H1 chip enables faster device switching, reduced audio latency, and hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality. Available with either a standard charging case or wireless charging case, the 2nd generation AirPods offer flexibility in charging methods. The design features optical sensors and motion accelerometers that automatically detect when earbuds are in use, enabling seamless play/pause functionality when removing or inserting earbuds.

Youtube Video Review: Apple AirPods (2nd Gen)

Youtube Video Review: Apple AirPods (2nd Gen)

Author: Seanty Rodrigo

- Audio and Music Journalist

Seanty Rodrigo is a highly respected Audio Specialist and Senior Content Producer for GlobalMusicVibe.com. With professional training in sound design and eight years of experience as a touring session guitarist, Seanty offers a powerful blend of technical knowledge and practical application. She is the lead voice behind the site’s comprehensive reviews of high-fidelity headphones, portable speakers, and ANC earbuds, and frequently contributes detailed music guides covering composition and guitar technique. Seanty’s commitment is to evaluating gear the way a professional musician uses it, ensuring readers know exactly how products will perform in the studio or on the stage.

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