Airpods Gen 1 vs 2: Which Apple Earbuds Reign?
Are you torn between the original and the upgraded? The world of wireless audio can be tricky, and choosing the right earbuds is a big decision. Today, we’re diving deep into the battle of the buds: AirPods Gen 1 vs 2.
Apple’s AirPods have revolutionized how we listen to music, podcasts, and take calls. Both generations offer seamless integration with Apple devices. But, are the differences significant enough to sway your purchase?
We’ll explore the key features, performance, and value of both the first and second generation AirPods. Get ready to discover which pair comes out on top in this comprehensive comparison. Let’s find out if the original AirPods still hold their own against the newer model.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | AirPods Gen 1 | AirPods 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | W1 | H1 |
| Bluetooth | 4.2 | 5.0 |
| Charging Case | Wired | Wired or Wireless (optional) |
| “Hey Siri” Support | No | Yes |
| Audio Quality | Good | Improved |
| Battery Life (per charge) | 5 hours | 5 hours |
| Talk Time | 2 hours | 3 hours |
| Weight (per earbud) | 4g | 4g |
| Water Resistance | No | No |
| Case Charging | Lightning | Lightning or Wireless (optional) |
| Release Year | 2016 | 2019 |
| Sensors | Dual beamforming microphones, dual optical sensors, motion-detecting accelerometer, speech-detecting accelerometer | Dual beamforming microphones, dual optical sensors, motion-detecting accelerometer, speech-detecting accelerometer |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Chipset
- Airpods Gen 1: Uses the Apple W1 chip. This chip provides a stable wireless connection and efficient power management. However, it lacks some of the advanced features of the newer H1 chip.
- 2: Upgraded to the Apple H1 chip. The H1 chip delivers faster pairing, improved connection stability, and hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality. This results in a better overall user experience.
- Winner: 2
Wireless Charging Case (Optional)
- Airpods Gen 1: Available with a standard charging case, which charges via Lightning cable. Wireless charging is not supported.
- 2: Available with either a standard charging case (Lightning) or an optional wireless charging case. The wireless charging case adds convenience.
- Winner: 2
“Hey Siri” Functionality
- Airpods Gen 1: Does not support hands-free “Hey Siri” activation. You need to tap the AirPods to activate Siri.
- 2: Supports hands-free “Hey Siri” activation, allowing you to control music, make calls, and more with just your voice.
- Winner: 2
Bluetooth Connectivity
- Airpods Gen 1: Uses Bluetooth 4.2. While reliable, this version is slightly older than the one in the second generation.
- 2: Uses Bluetooth 5.0. This offers improved range and connection stability compared to Bluetooth 4.2.
- Winner: 2
Battery Life
- Airpods Gen 1: Offers up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge and an additional 24 hours with the charging case.
- 2: Offers the same battery life as the first generation: up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge and an additional 24 hours with the charging case.
- Winner: Tie
Call Quality
- Airpods Gen 1: Provides decent call quality, but the microphone performance is not as refined as in the newer model.
- 2: Includes improvements to call quality with enhanced microphone performance and better noise reduction.
- Winner: 2
Price
- Airpods Gen 1: Generally available at a lower price point, especially used or refurbished.
- 2: Typically has a higher price, particularly for models with the wireless charging case.
- Winner: airpods gen 1
Switching Between Devices
- Airpods Gen 1: Switching between devices can sometimes be clunky.
- 2: Faster and more seamless switching between devices due to the H1 chip.
- Winner: 2
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Chip | AirPods 2 |
| “Hey Siri” Support | AirPods 2 |
| Bluetooth | AirPods 2 |
| Talk Time | AirPods 2 |
| Value | AirPods 1 |
What They Have in Common
- Design: Both AirPods generations share the same iconic white design, offering a comfortable and familiar fit for many users.
- Ease of Use: Both models boast seamless pairing with Apple devices and intuitive controls for music playback and calls.
- Automatic Ear Detection: Both AirPods pause and resume audio automatically when you take them out of and put them back in your ears.
- Siri Integration: Both generations allow you to access Siri with a double-tap (Gen 1) or voice command (Gen 2).
- Battery Life (combined): Both AirPods offer up to 24 hours of total listening time with the charging case.
Airpods Gen 1 Vs 2 Buying Guide
Sound Quality
The sound quality is a primary differentiator. AirPods Gen 2 offer a slight improvement over Gen 1. They feature a newer H1 chip, which provides a marginally enhanced audio experience, particularly in bass response and overall clarity. While the difference isn’t drastic, audiophiles might notice a slightly richer and more immersive sound. Both generations offer decent sound for casual listening, but the Gen 2 has a subtle edge. Consider your listening preferences and the importance of audio fidelity when making your choice.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a crucial factor for wireless earbuds. Both generations of AirPods provide a similar listening time on a single charge. However, the charging case is where the Gen 2 shines. The Gen 2’s charging case offers slightly better battery life, allowing for more total listening time before needing to recharge the case itself. Furthermore, the Gen 2 supports wireless charging, adding a convenient charging option that the Gen 1 lacks. This feature makes the Gen 2 more versatile for users.
Performance and Connectivity
The H1 chip in AirPods Gen 2 enhances performance and connectivity. It provides faster pairing with Apple devices and more stable connections. Switching between devices is also smoother with the Gen 2. The H1 chip also enables “Hey Siri” functionality, allowing you to activate Siri with voice commands. The Gen 1 lacks these performance enhancements, resulting in a slightly less seamless user experience. The improved connectivity and performance are noticeable in daily use.
Design and Comfort
Both generations share the same iconic design. They feature a similar stem and an open-ear design that fits comfortably in most ears. Comfort levels are subjective and depend on individual ear shapes. Some users might find the open-ear design less secure, especially during workouts. The design itself hasn’t changed between the two generations, so there are no major differences in this category. Consider your personal preference for fit and comfort when deciding.
Features and Functionality
AirPods Gen 2 introduce some new features. The most significant addition is the “Hey Siri” voice activation. This allows you to control music playback, adjust volume, and perform other tasks hands-free. The Gen 1 requires you to tap the earbud to activate Siri. The Gen 2 also benefits from the improved performance of the H1 chip, which enhances the overall user experience. Consider if the extra features are worth the price difference.
Price and Value
The price is a key factor. AirPods Gen 1 are generally more affordable than Gen 2, especially if you find a good deal. However, the price difference might be worth it for the added features and improved performance of the Gen 2. Consider your budget and the importance of features like wireless charging and “Hey Siri.” Assess how much value you place on the upgrades when comparing the two models. Think about the long-term investment and which option best fits your needs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy AirPods Gen 1 If…
- You’re on a tight budget and want to experience the AirPods ecosystem at a lower price point.
- You primarily use AirPods for casual listening and don’t need the latest features.
- You’re upgrading from wired headphones and want to try out true wireless earbuds.
Buy AirPods 2 If…
- You want improved performance and faster connection speeds.
- You frequently use Siri and appreciate the hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality.
- You want a charging case that supports wireless charging (optional).
- You value the improved talk time offered by the second-generation AirPods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between AirPods Gen 1 and Gen 2?
The primary differences lie in the chip and features. The Gen 2 features the H1 chip, which provides improved performance, faster pairing, and “Hey Siri” functionality. The Gen 2 also offers optional wireless charging for its charging case. The Gen 1 uses the original W1 chip, and it lacks these enhancements, making the Gen 2 a more feature-rich option for a slightly higher price.
Does AirPods Gen 2 sound better than AirPods Gen 1?
Yes, but the difference is subtle. The H1 chip in the Gen 2 provides a slight improvement in sound quality, particularly in bass response and clarity. While both offer good sound for casual listening, the Gen 2 has a slightly richer audio experience. The improvement might not be immediately noticeable to all listeners, but audiophiles may appreciate the enhanced sound profile.
Does AirPods Gen 2 have noise cancellation?
No, neither AirPods Gen 1 nor Gen 2 feature active noise cancellation. They have an open-ear design, which allows some ambient sound to pass through. This can be beneficial for situational awareness. If noise cancellation is a high priority, consider other models like the AirPods Pro. The open design allows for a more natural listening experience.
What is the battery life of AirPods Gen 1 and Gen 2?
Both generations offer similar listening time on a single charge of the earbuds, around 5 hours. However, the Gen 2’s charging case provides slightly more total listening time. The Gen 2 charging case also supports wireless charging, adding convenience. Overall battery life depends on usage and volume levels. The charging case extends the overall listening duration.
Can I use AirPods Gen 2 with an Android phone?
Yes, you can use both AirPods Gen 1 and Gen 2 with Android phones. However, some features, such as automatic device switching and “Hey Siri” functionality, are limited on Android. You can still use them for listening to music and taking calls. The overall experience is optimized for Apple devices, but they are compatible with Android.
How do I control the AirPods Gen 1 and Gen 2?
Both generations use touch controls. You can tap the earbuds to play/pause music, skip tracks, and answer calls. The Gen 2 enables “Hey Siri” voice activation. Gen 1 has basic tap functions. Gen 2 has additional control options. The touch controls are similar for both, with the Gen 2 offering additional voice control.
Are AirPods Gen 2 worth the extra cost?
It depends on your priorities. If you value features like “Hey Siri,” wireless charging, and slightly improved performance, then yes. If you’re on a tighter budget and the differences aren’t crucial, AirPods Gen 1 may suffice. Consider the value you place on the upgrades and whether they justify the price difference. Evaluate your needs and budget.
Final Verdict
AirPods Gen 2 offer several improvements over the Gen 1, including the H1 chip for enhanced performance, “Hey Siri” voice activation, and optional wireless charging. While the sound quality difference is subtle, the overall user experience is notably smoother with the newer model. For those prioritizing features and performance, the Gen 2 is the better choice. However, the Gen 1 remains a viable option for those on a budget.
Winner: AirPods Gen 2