There are several generations of AirPods, including standard models (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th gen), Pro models (1st, 2nd, 3rd gen), and the over-ear AirPods Max, totaling many distinct versions and generations released by Apple since 2016, with new ones like AirPods 4 and Pro 3 arriving in 2024/2025.
Which AirPods do I have?
Yes, AirPods 4 are available in two models: a standard version and one with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), offering improved fit, the H2 chip for better audio/calls, IP54 dust/water resistance, and USB-C charging for the case, providing a seamless Apple ecosystem experience with features like Spatial Audio and Live Translation.
Yes, Apple is working on the AirPods 5, but they are not expected soon; current rumors point to a potential release in 2026 or even 2027, long after the AirPods 4 (released in late 2024), with the next big upgrade likely involving health sensors, an H3 chip, and possibly integrated cameras for advanced features like in-air gestures.
The AirPods 4 are objectively better than the AirPods 3, offering superior sound with better bass, the H2 chip for advanced features like Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness, and USB-C charging (with MagSafe on the ANC model), making them a significant upgrade for most users seeking improved audio and modern tech in an open-ear design, though the AirPods Pro 3 offers superior Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) if a sealed fit and top-tier noise blocking are priorities.
Yes, AirPods 4 are considered worth it for many users, especially the model with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), as they offer great sound, effective ANC for an open-fit earbud, superior Apple ecosystem integration (H2 chip), improved comfort for those who dislike silicone tips, and a more affordable price point than AirPods Pro. They are a strong contender for the best everyday Apple earbuds, though they lack volume control on the buds and some advanced Pro features, but provide excellent value for most users wanting an upgrade from older models.
Yes, AirPods Pro 3 are generally considered worth it for most Apple users, offering significant upgrades in noise cancellation, sound quality, battery life, and comfort over previous generations, plus new features like heart rate tracking, making them a strong upgrade for those with older models or regular AirPods, though perhaps not essential for Pro 2 owners unless those specific new features are crucial.
The AirPods Pro 2 offers excellent noise cancellation and sound, but the newer AirPods Pro 3 (or the latest gen, depending on the date of review) brings significant upgrades like enhanced ANC, improved sound quality with deeper bass, longer single-charge battery life (8 hrs vs 6 hrs), heart rate tracking, more water resistance, and USB-C charging, making the Pro 3 better for workouts and serious listeners, while the Pro 2 remains a strong value.
The AirPods 5 are likely to have the same price as the 4th-gen earbuds: US$129 for the base model and $179 for the model with Active Noise Cancellation.
The simple answer is: no, AirPods Pro are not waterproof. But, they are water and sweat resistant. However, the wireless charging case is not.
No, the AirPods Pro 2 are generally better for features and sound quality, offering superior noise cancellation, transparency mode, and deeper bass due to their in-ear seal, while the AirPods 4 are better for those who prefer an open-ear fit, value comfort over ANC, and want a more balanced sound with features like Adaptive Audio at a lower price point, especially the ANC-equipped version. Pro 2 wins on ANC and sound isolation; AirPods 4 wins on open-fit comfort and good value.
The AirPods 4 cost $179 with ANC and $129 without, while the AirPods Max are priced at $549. Preorders are now live at the Apple Store, Amazon, and Best Buy ahead of their official release on Friday, Sept. 20.
AirPods Pro, AirPods 3, and AirPods 4 (both models) are sweat and water resistant, but they are not waterproof or sweatproof.
The "best" AirPod depends on your needs, but the AirPods Pro 3 are generally considered the top overall for features like superior Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), fitness tracking (heart rate), and sound, while the AirPods 4 (ANC version) offer great value and improved sound for those who prefer the open-ear design. For premium sound and design, the AirPods Max are the best over-ear choice, but the Pro 3 earbuds offer the best balance of features, performance, and fit for most users.
AirPods are expensive due to Apple's brand premium, seamless integration with the iPhone ecosystem (H1/H2 chips), advanced miniaturized technology (sensors, chips, mics, batteries in tiny space), significant R&D/engineering costs, and strong marketing, offering features like quick pairing, fast device switching, and good (but not always objectively "best") sound/ANC that appeal to invested Apple users willing to pay for convenience, as noted in discussions across Reddit and Hacker News https://www.reddit.com/r/NoStupidQuestions/comments/14kfrxh/why_are_apple_airpods_so_expensive_and_are_they/,.
The AirPods 4 are objectively better than the AirPods 3, offering superior sound with better bass, the H2 chip for advanced features like Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness, and USB-C charging (with MagSafe on the ANC model), making them a significant upgrade for most users seeking improved audio and modern tech in an open-ear design, though the AirPods Pro 3 offers superior Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) if a sealed fit and top-tier noise blocking are priorities.
Yes, Apple is working on the AirPods 5, but they are not expected soon; current rumors point to a potential release in 2026 or even 2027, long after the AirPods 4 (released in late 2024), with the next big upgrade likely involving health sensors, an H3 chip, and possibly integrated cameras for advanced features like in-air gestures.
The 3rd generation AirPods are newer than the 2nd generation, having been released in October 2021, succeeding the 2019 2nd gen model with upgrades like Spatial Audio, a shorter stem, and a more contoured fit, making them a significant improvement for a better listening experience.
Are AirPods 3 noise cancelling? No, Apple AirPods 3rd generation do not contain any active noise cancelling features. Only the AirPods Pro series and Max contain noise cancelling.
AirPods Pro 3 feature next-generation Adaptive EQ, which customizes a sound signature for your unique ear geometry and fit. And Personalized Volume uses machine learning to understand your listening patterns and adapt to your preferences over time.
The W1 chip allows them to be used at a substantially greater distance that regular BT headphones, which generally top out at about 30 feet. With AirPods and nothing large and metallic in the way, I've gone as far as 100 feet with no issues.
Much like most wireless earbuds on the market, the and AirPods Pro Gen 1 & 2 and AirPods all have the same annoying yet solvable problem — occasionally falling out of the ear and pain after extended use. This is frustrating, especially for athletes, tella-workers, and your everyday person on the go.
The combination of flawless voice activation and lightweight wearability with sweat/water resistance (IPX4) also made them favorable for exercising. Now that the AirPods Pro 3 have launched with advanced health features and a new ergonomic design, it would seem a safe bet that I would make them my next gym partner.
You should get the AirPods Pro 3 for significantly better noise cancellation, sound quality (especially bass), longer battery, heart rate tracking, and improved IP57 water/dust resistance; however, the AirPods Pro 2 are still excellent and a great value, especially if you find them at a discount, as many users find the Pro 3's improvements evolutionary rather than revolutionary for everyday use.