Airpods 2nd Gen vs 3rd Gen: Which Airpods Are Right?
Are you torn between the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen and the newer 3rd Gen? You’re not alone. Choosing the right pair of earbuds can be tricky, especially with so many options available. This comparison will break down the key differences to help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.
The AirPods 2nd Gen offered a solid entry point into the world of wireless audio. They were a popular choice for their ease of use and seamless integration with Apple devices. Now, the 3rd Gen arrives with some notable upgrades.
We’ll explore everything from sound quality and design to battery life and features. By the end of this comparison, you’ll have a clear understanding of which AirPods model reigns supreme for you. Get ready to discover which set of AirPods will best fit your lifestyle!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | airpod 2nd gen | 3rd gen |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | H1 | H1 |
| Spatial Audio | No | Yes |
| Adaptive EQ | No | Yes |
| Water Resistance | No | IPX4 |
| Charging Case | Wired Charging | Wired and Wireless Charging |
| Battery Life (Earbuds) | 5 hours | 6 hours |
| Battery Life (with Case) | 24 hours | 30 hours |
| Microphones | Dual beamforming microphones | Dual beamforming microphones, inward-facing microphone |
| Audio Codec | AAC | AAC |
| Case Design | Standard | Contoured |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Sensors | Motion-detecting accelerometer, speech-detecting accelerometer | Motion-detecting accelerometer, speech-detecting accelerometer, skin-detect sensor |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Fit
- Airpod 2nd Gen: Features the original AirPods design with a universal fit. Some users find this fit less secure, and it lacks any water resistance rating.
- 3rd Gen: Boasts a redesigned, shorter stem and a more contoured shape for a more secure and comfortable fit. It also includes an IPX4 water resistance rating.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Audio Quality
- Airpod 2nd Gen: Provides decent audio quality for calls and casual listening, but lacks significant bass and sound isolation.
- 3rd Gen: Offers improved audio quality with Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ, delivering a richer and more immersive listening experience, and better bass.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Charging Case
- Airpod 2nd Gen: Comes with a standard charging case, offering multiple charges for the earbuds. The case supports charging via Lightning.
- 3rd Gen: Features a redesigned charging case that is MagSafe compatible, enabling wireless charging. The case is also slightly more compact.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Battery Life
- Airpod 2nd Gen: Offers up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 24 hours with the charging case.
- 3rd Gen: Provides up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Controls
- Airpod 2nd Gen: Relies on touch-based controls for music playback, call answering, and Siri activation. These controls can be less responsive.
- 3rd Gen: Includes force sensor controls on the stems, offering more precise and reliable control over music and calls.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Spatial Audio
- Airpod 2nd Gen: Does not support Spatial Audio, limiting the immersive listening experience.
- 3rd Gen: Supports Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, creating a more theater-like sound experience.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Water Resistance
- Airpod 2nd Gen: Lacks any water resistance rating, making them susceptible to damage from sweat or rain.
- 3rd Gen: Features an IPX4 water resistance rating, providing protection against splashes and sweat.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Price
- Airpod 2nd Gen: Typically available at a lower price point, making them a more budget-friendly option.
- 3rd Gen: Costs more than the 2nd generation, reflecting the upgraded features and improved performance.
- Winner: 2nd Gen (for budget) / 3rd Gen (for overall value)
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Audio Quality | 3rd gen |
| Features | 3rd gen |
| Battery Life | 3rd gen |
| Design | 3rd gen |
| Value | 2nd gen |
| Water Resistance | 3rd gen |
What They Have in Common:
- Ease of Use: Both AirPods generations offer seamless pairing with Apple devices, making them incredibly easy to use right out of the box. The simple setup process and intuitive controls contribute to a user-friendly experience.
- H1 Chip: Both generations of AirPods utilize the H1 chip, which provides fast pairing, efficient performance, and low latency. This chip also enables features like automatic switching between Apple devices.
- Comfort: Both AirPods share a similar lightweight and comfortable design, designed to fit comfortably in most ears. While fit can vary from person to person, the general design prioritizes comfort for extended use.
- Seamless Integration: Both generations integrate seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem, including features like Siri voice control and automatic device switching. This deep integration enhances the overall user experience for Apple users.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Both AirPods use Bluetooth 5.0, which provides a stable and reliable wireless connection to your devices. This ensures a consistent audio experience.
Airpod 2nd Gen Vs 3rd Gen Buying Guide
Sound Quality Comparison
The AirPods 3rd generation significantly improve sound quality. They offer spatial audio, which creates a more immersive listening experience by simulating surround sound. The 2nd generation AirPods lack this feature, resulting in a more standard audio output. The 3rd generation also provides better bass response and overall clarity. While the 2nd generation still sound decent for casual listening, the 3rd generation provides a noticeable upgrade for music, podcasts, and calls. Consider your primary listening habits when weighing these differences.
Design and Comfort
AirPods 3rd generation feature a redesigned, shorter stem and a more contoured fit compared to the 2nd generation. This often leads to a more secure and comfortable experience, particularly for longer listening sessions. The 2nd generation AirPods have a slightly more universal fit, but some users find the lack of a snug seal makes them prone to falling out. Ultimately, the best fit depends on individual ear shape. Try both generations if possible to determine which design suits you best.
Battery Life and Charging
The 3rd generation AirPods extend battery life. They offer up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, compared to the 5 hours of the 2nd generation. The charging case also provides more total listening time. Both cases support fast charging, providing a quick boost when needed. The 3rd generation case also features MagSafe charging, adding another layer of convenience. The improved battery performance of the 3rd generation is a notable advantage.
Features and Functionality
AirPods 3rd generation include features not found in the 2nd generation, such as Adaptive EQ. This technology automatically adjusts the sound in real-time based on the shape of your ear, providing a more personalized listening experience. The 3rd generation also boasts sweat and water resistance, adding durability for workouts or outdoor use. The 2nd generation lacks these enhancements, making the 3rd gen more feature-rich. These additions contribute to a superior user experience.
Price and Value
Price is a significant factor. The 2nd generation AirPods are typically more affordable, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. While the 3rd generation commands a higher price, the added features and improved performance justify the cost for many users. Consider your budget and the importance of features like spatial audio and water resistance. Evaluate the overall value based on your needs and how you plan to use them.
Call Quality and Performance
The 3rd generation AirPods also improve call quality. They incorporate a mesh cover on the microphone to reduce wind noise and enhance voice clarity. The 2nd generation AirPods are fine for making calls in quiet environments, but the 3rd generation offers a better experience in noisy settings. The improved microphones and overall call performance make the 3rd generation a more suitable choice for frequent phone users. Consider call quality if it is a priority for you.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy airpod 2nd gen If…
- You’re on a budget and looking for the most affordable AirPods.
- You primarily use your AirPods for casual listening and calls.
- You don’t need the latest features like Spatial Audio or water resistance.
- You want a simple, no-frills AirPods experience.
Buy 3rd gen If…
- You want improved audio quality with features like Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ.
- You want a longer battery life and a more modern design.
- You need some water resistance for workouts or outdoor use.
- You value the convenience of wireless charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spatial Audio?
Spatial Audio is a feature in the 3rd generation AirPods that creates a three-dimensional listening experience. It uses dynamic head tracking to place sounds in space, making it feel like the audio is coming from all around you. This feature enhances immersion, particularly when watching movies or listening to music with spatial audio enabled. The effect is most noticeable when the listener moves their head.
Are AirPods 3rd Generation waterproof?
The AirPods 3rd generation are not waterproof, but are water-resistant and sweat-resistant. This means they can withstand splashes and light rain, but they should not be submerged in water. This feature provides added durability for workouts and outdoor use. The 2nd generation AirPods are not water-resistant, making the 3rd generation more suitable for active lifestyles.
How do the charging cases compare?
The 3rd generation AirPods charging case offers several advantages. It supports MagSafe charging, allowing for convenient wireless charging using a magnetic connection. It also provides a longer overall battery life compared to the 2nd generation case. Both cases are compact and portable, but the 3rd gen’s MagSafe feature provides an edge.
Which AirPods have better sound quality?
The AirPods 3rd generation offer superior sound quality. They feature spatial audio, which creates a more immersive listening experience. They also have improved bass response and overall clarity compared to the 2nd generation AirPods. The 2nd generation sound decent, but the 3rd generation provides a noticeable improvement in overall audio performance.
What is the battery life difference?
The AirPods 3rd generation provide slightly longer battery life on a single charge, offering up to 6 hours of listening time, compared to the 5 hours of the 2nd generation. The charging cases also provide different overall listening times. The 3rd generation has a longer total listening time, making them a better choice for extended use.
Which AirPods are more comfortable?
The 3rd generation AirPods have a redesigned design with shorter stems and a more contoured fit. This often results in a more comfortable and secure fit, particularly for longer listening sessions. However, comfort can be subjective, and some users may prefer the fit of the 2nd generation. It is always best to try both before making a final decision.
Are the 2nd generation AirPods still worth buying?
Yes, the 2nd generation AirPods are still a viable option, especially for budget-conscious buyers. They offer good sound quality and functionality at a lower price point. However, if you are looking for the latest features, improved sound quality, longer battery life, and water resistance, the 3rd generation AirPods are the better choice.
Final Verdict
The AirPods 3rd generation deliver significant improvements over the 2nd generation, including spatial audio, enhanced battery life, and a more comfortable design. While the 2nd generation remains a solid choice for budget-conscious consumers, the 3rd generation offers a superior overall listening experience and is worth the price difference for most users. The added features make it a more well-rounded product.
Winner: AirPods 3rd Generation