Airpods 2nd Generation vs 3rd Generation: Which Wins?
Are you torn between the classic and the cutting-edge? Choosing the right pair of earbuds can be a tough decision, especially when you’re comparing two popular models from Apple. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of wireless audio to help you decide between the AirPods 2nd generation and the sleek AirPods 3rd generation.
Both generations offer the convenience and ease of use that AirPods are known for, but there are some key differences that might sway your choice. From audio quality to design and features, we’ll break down everything you need to know. Get ready to discover which AirPods model reigns supreme for your listening needs.
Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a podcast aficionado, or a frequent caller, understanding the nuances of each model is crucial. We’ll explore the upgrades and improvements the 3rd generation brings to the table, and how they stack up against the tried-and-true performance of the 2nd generation. Let’s find out which AirPods are the perfect fit for you!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | 2nd Gen | 3rd Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | H1 | H1 |
| Spatial Audio | No | Yes |
| Water Resistance | No | IPX4 |
| Charging Case | Wired | Wired or MagSafe |
| Battery Life (Earbuds) | Up to 5 hours | Up to 6 hours |
| Battery Life (with Case) | Up to 24 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Adaptive EQ | No | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | No | Yes |
| Case Design | Rounded | Taller, more squared |
| Controls | Tap | Force Sensor |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Weight (per earbud) | 4 grams | 4.28 grams |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design
- Airpod 2nd Generation: Features a universal fit with a stem. Pros: Comfortable for some, widely available. Cons: Can be less secure for some ear shapes, no sweat resistance.
- 3rd Generation: Redesigned with a shorter stem and a more contoured shape. Pros: More secure fit, IPX4 sweat and water resistance. Cons: May not fit all ears perfectly.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Audio Quality
- Airpod 2nd Generation: Offers decent sound quality for everyday use, but lacks some of the advanced features of newer models. Pros: Clear audio for calls. Cons: Lacks bass and spatial audio.
- 3rd Generation: Features spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, and improved bass response. Pros: More immersive audio experience. Cons: May not be a significant upgrade for everyone.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Charging Case
- Airpod 2nd Generation: Comes with a standard charging case that provides multiple charges. Pros: Compact and easy to carry. Cons: No MagSafe charging standard in the base model.
- 3rd Generation: Includes a MagSafe charging case. Pros: Convenient wireless charging. Cons: Slightly larger than the 2nd generation case.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Battery Life
- Airpod 2nd Generation: Offers up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge. Pros: Decent battery life. Cons: Less battery life than the 3rd generation.
- 3rd Generation: Provides up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge. Pros: Improved battery life. Cons: May vary with spatial audio usage.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Water Resistance
- Airpod 2nd Generation: Doesn’t have any water resistance rating. Pros: N/A. Cons: Susceptible to damage from sweat or water.
- 3rd Generation: Features IPX4 water and sweat resistance. Pros: More durable for workouts and light rain. Cons: Not fully waterproof.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Controls
- Airpod 2nd Generation: Uses double-tap controls. Pros: Simple to use. Cons: Limited functionality.
- 3rd Generation: Uses force sensor controls. Pros: More intuitive and precise controls. Cons: Requires getting used to the new interaction method.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Chipset
- Airpod 2nd Generation: Uses the H1 chip. Pros: Good for connectivity. Cons: Less powerful than the H1 chip in the 3rd gen.
- 3rd Generation: Uses the H1 chip. Pros: Improved performance and connectivity. Cons: Very minimal performance difference.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Airpod 2nd Generation: Generally more affordable. Pros: More budget-friendly. Cons: Older technology.
- 3rd Generation: More expensive. Pros: Offers more features and improved performance. Cons: Higher upfront cost.
- Winner: 2nd Gen (for budget)
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Sound Quality | 3rd Gen |
| Features | 3rd Gen |
| Battery Life | 3rd Gen |
| Value | 2nd Gen |
| Design | 3rd Gen (subjective) |
| Water Resistance | 3rd Gen |
What They Have in Common:
- Chip: Both AirPods generations utilize the H1 chip, enabling seamless pairing with Apple devices and providing quick device switching. They also offer hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality.
- Bluetooth: Both generations support Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable and reliable wireless connection to your devices.
- Ease of Use: Both AirPods generations share the same easy setup and use experience, integrating seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem.
- Audio Quality: Both offer decent sound quality for everyday listening, though the 3rd generation has some improvements.
- Compatibility: Both generations work with all Apple devices running the latest software, as well as any Bluetooth-enabled device.
AirPods 2nd Generation vs 3rd Generation Buying Guide
Audio Quality
The 3rd generation AirPods significantly improve upon the audio quality of the 2nd generation. They feature Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, creating a more immersive listening experience, especially when watching movies or listening to music with supported formats. The 2nd generation AirPods, while offering decent sound, lack these advanced features. The 3rd generation also boasts improved bass response and overall clarity. Choosing between the two comes down to your priorities; the 3rd gen delivers a far richer audio experience.
Design and Comfort
Both generations share a similar stem design, but there are subtle differences. The 3rd generation features a shorter stem and a more contoured design, which some users find more comfortable. The 2nd generation AirPods are a bit more compact overall. Comfort can be subjective, and some users might still prefer the fit of the older model. It’s a good idea to try both if possible. The 3rd generation’s design, along with its water resistance, offers a slight edge.
Features and Functionality
The 3rd generation AirPods incorporate several upgrades in features. They offer sweat and water resistance, which the 2nd generation lacks. The 3rd generation also includes Adaptive EQ, which automatically tunes the audio based on the shape of your ear. The 2nd generation offers basic features like quick pairing and Siri integration, but the 3rd generation provides a more comprehensive feature set. Battery life is also slightly improved on the 3rd gen.
Battery Life and Charging
The 3rd generation AirPods provide better battery life. With the charging case, the 3rd gen offers up to 30 hours of listening time, compared to the 2nd generation’s 24 hours. A 5-minute charge in the case for the 3rd generation gives you about an hour of listening time, providing a convenient boost. The 3rd generation’s charging case also supports MagSafe charging, adding another layer of convenience and flexibility, which is unavailable in the 2nd generation.
Price and Value
The 2nd generation AirPods are usually more affordable than the 3rd generation. This makes them a good option for budget-conscious consumers who still want the convenience of AirPods. However, the 3rd generation offers significantly more features and better performance for the price difference. Considering the added features, improved audio quality, and extended battery life, the 3rd generation offers better overall value for most users. The cost-benefit analysis favors the 3rd gen.
Connectivity and Performance
Both models use Bluetooth for connectivity, allowing for seamless pairing with Apple devices and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. However, the 3rd generation AirPods benefit from more recent chip technology, potentially resulting in slightly improved stability and responsiveness. The 3rd generation also features faster pairing and switching between devices. While the 2nd generation is reliable, the 3rd generation provides a slightly enhanced and more modern connectivity experience.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy airpod 2nd generation If…
- You’re on a budget and looking for the most affordable AirPods option.
- You don’t need advanced features like Spatial Audio or Adaptive EQ.
- You primarily use AirPods for casual listening and calls.
Buy 3rd generation If…
- You want improved sound quality, including Spatial Audio for a more immersive experience.
- You value features like Adaptive EQ, which automatically tunes the sound to your ear.
- You want a longer battery life and a more modern design.
- You want water resistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between AirPods 2nd and 3rd generation?
The 3rd generation AirPods offer significant improvements in audio quality, design, and features. They include Spatial Audio, Adaptive EQ, and water resistance, which are absent in the 2nd generation. The 3rd gen also has a shorter stem and improved battery life, making them a more advanced and versatile option. The design changes provide a better overall listening experience.
Do 3rd generation AirPods sound better than 2nd generation?
Yes, the 3rd generation AirPods sound noticeably better. They feature Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, delivering a more immersive soundstage. They also have improved bass and overall clarity compared to the 2nd generation. The 3rd generation offers a richer and more detailed audio experience, making it a clear upgrade for sound quality.
Are 3rd generation AirPods waterproof?
The 3rd generation AirPods are sweat and water-resistant, offering protection against splashes and light rain. They are not fully waterproof, so they shouldn’t be submerged in water. The 2nd generation AirPods do not have any water resistance. The 3rd gen’s resistance provides extra protection during workouts or outdoor activities.
How long does the battery last on the 3rd generation AirPods?
The 3rd generation AirPods provide up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge. With the charging case, you can get up to 30 hours of total listening time. A quick 5-minute charge in the case provides about an hour of listening time. The 3rd gen provides excellent battery life for daily use.
Do 3rd generation AirPods have noise cancellation?
No, the 3rd generation AirPods do not have active noise cancellation (ANC). This feature is available in the AirPods Pro models. They offer a more focused listening experience because of the design. The 2nd generation AirPods also lack active noise cancellation. The open design allows a degree of environmental awareness.
Can I use the 3rd generation AirPods with Android devices?
Yes, you can use the 3rd generation AirPods with Android devices. They connect via Bluetooth just like the 2nd generation. However, some features, such as automatic device switching and spatial audio, might not be fully supported on Android. The core functionality, including audio playback and calls, works perfectly fine.
Which AirPods are better for phone calls?
Both the 2nd and 3rd generation AirPods offer decent call quality. However, the 3rd generation has some improvements because of its acoustic mesh covering the microphones. This helps to reduce wind noise during calls, resulting in clearer voice transmission. The 3rd generation AirPods provide an overall slight improvement in voice clarity.
Final Verdict
The 3rd generation AirPods represent a significant upgrade over the 2nd generation, offering superior audio quality, enhanced features like Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ, improved battery life, and water resistance. While the 2nd generation remain a viable budget option, the 3rd generation provides a much more compelling overall listening experience and long-term value for the price difference.
Winner: AirPods 3rd Generation