Home / True Wireless / Comparison
Apple AirPods (2nd generation) vs Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)
Apple AirPods (2nd generation) ($34) vs Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation) ($74) — 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 Pro (1st generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $34 | $74 |
| Weight | 46.2g | 56.4g |
| Chip | Apple H1 | Apple H1 |
| Battery | 5h per charge, 24h with case | 4.5h ANC, 24h with case |
| Charging | Lightning or Qi wireless case | Lightning, wireless Qi |
| Fit | One-size, non-sealed | 3 silicone tip sizes |
| Weight | 46.2g (Apple published: 4g bud x2 + 38.2g case) | 56.4g (Apple published: 5.4g bud x2 + 45.6g case) |
| ANC | — | Active + Transparency |
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 Pro (1st generation)
- First sealed-fit AirPods with real ANC
- Three tip sizes for an actual acoustic seal
- Wireless charging case standard, not an upsell
- Still handles calls and Transparency mode well
- No Adaptive Transparency or force-sensor stem swipe
- ANC trails every AirPods Pro that followed it
- Ear tips wear out and need replacing on a used pair
- No IP rating beyond basic sweat resistance
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.
More True Wireless comparisons
Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs Apple AirPods Pro 3Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs Apple AirPods 4Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs Apple AirPods Max 2Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs Apple AirPods 4 (ANC)Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs Apple AirPods (1st generation)Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs Apple AirPods (2nd generation)