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Apple AirPods (2nd generation) vs Apple AirPods (3rd generation)
Apple AirPods (2nd generation) ($34) vs Apple AirPods (3rd generation) ($55) — side-by-side specs, weight, pros and cons to help you pick the right true wireless.
Spec-by-spec
| Spec | Apple AirPods (2nd generation) | Apple AirPods (3rd generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $34 | $55 |
| Weight | 46.2g | 46.5g |
| Chip | Apple H1 | Apple H1 |
| Battery | 5h per charge, 24h with case | 6h per charge, 30h with case |
| Charging | Lightning or Qi wireless case | Lightning, MagSafe or Qi |
| Fit | One-size, non-sealed | One-size, non-sealed |
| Weight | 46.2g (Apple published: 4g bud x2 + 38.2g case) | 46.5g (Apple published: 4.28g bud x2 + 37.91g case) |
| Water | — | IPX4 sweat/water resistant |
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods (2nd generation)
- H1 chip adds hands-free Hey Siri
- Optional wireless charging case, a real upgrade over 1st gen
- Same reliable instant pairing
- Still among the lightest true wireless buds sold
- No ANC or Transparency mode
- Sound is basic, no bass to speak of
- Non-sealed fit leaks audio and outside noise equally
- Battery health on a used pair is a gamble
Apple AirPods (3rd generation)
- Force-sensor stem controls, no more taps
- MagSafe charging case
- IPX4 resistance, first in the base AirPods line
- Adaptive EQ tunes output to fit in real time
- Still no ANC or Transparency
- Shorter stem changes the grip some people relied on
- Non-sealed fit remains a wall against isolation
- Costs more used than 1st/2nd gen for a fit-only upgrade
Apple AirPods (2nd generation) is the better value at $34. Both are part of our curated true wireless index — tap through to check current pricing.
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