Airpods 3rd Gen vs 2nd Gen: Which Airpods Are Best?
Are you torn between the latest and the classic? The battle of the buds is on! We’re diving deep into the world of Apple’s iconic earbuds to compare the AirPods 3rd generation vs 2nd generation. This comparison will help you decide which pair deserves a spot in your ears.
The AirPods have revolutionized the way we listen to music and take calls. Both generations offer seamless integration with Apple devices, but they come with distinct features and improvements. We’ll explore the key differences in design, audio quality, battery life, and overall value.
Whether you’re an audiophile, a casual listener, or simply looking for a convenient way to enjoy your favorite content, this comparison will provide the insights you need. Get ready to discover which AirPods model reigns supreme and perfectly matches your needs.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | airpod 3rd gen | 2nd gen |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | H1 | H1 |
| Spatial Audio | Yes | No |
| Adaptive EQ | Yes | No |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | No |
| Charging Case | MagSafe & Lightning | Lightning |
| Battery Life (Earbuds) | 6 hours | 5 hours |
| Battery Life (with Case) | 30 hours | 24 hours |
| Microphones | Dual beamforming | Dual beamforming |
| Controls | Force Sensor | Tap |
| Case Charging | Wired & Wireless | Wired |
| Audio Codec Support | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design
- Airpod 3rd Gen: Features a shorter stem and a more contoured design similar to AirPods Pro. This provides a more comfortable fit for some users and a more modern aesthetic. However, the fit might not be ideal for all ear shapes.
- 2nd Gen: Retains the original AirPods design with a longer stem. This design is familiar to many users but may not be as secure or comfortable for all. It’s a classic look but lacks the newer, more streamlined appearance.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Audio Quality
- Airpod 3rd Gen: Offers improved audio quality with Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ. Spatial Audio creates a more immersive listening experience, and Adaptive EQ adjusts the sound in real-time based on the fit and seal. However, it still lacks some of the premium sound features found in over-ear headphones.
- 2nd Gen: Provides decent sound quality for everyday use, but lacks the advanced features of the 3rd gen. The sound is clear, but doesn’t have the same level of depth or customization.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Battery Life
- Airpod 3rd Gen: Offers up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case. This is an improvement over the 2nd gen. The case also supports MagSafe charging.
- 2nd Gen: Provides up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 24 hours with the charging case. Battery life is noticeably shorter than the 3rd gen.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Charging Case
- Airpod 3rd Gen: The charging case is redesigned and supports MagSafe charging. It is also more compact and has an IPX4 water resistance rating.
- 2nd Gen: Includes a standard charging case, with optional wireless charging. It lacks the MagSafe feature and water resistance of the 3rd gen case.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Water Resistance
- Airpod 3rd Gen: Features an IPX4 water resistance rating for both the earbuds and the charging case, protecting them from splashes and sweat.
- 2nd Gen: Does not have any official water resistance rating.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Connectivity
- Airpod 3rd Gen: Uses Bluetooth 5.0 for stable and reliable connectivity. Pairing is seamless with Apple devices.
- 2nd Gen: Also uses Bluetooth 5.0, offering similar connectivity performance.
- Winner: Tie
Controls
- Airpod 3rd Gen: Uses a force sensor on the stem for easier control of music playback, calls, and Siri.
- 2nd Gen: Uses a double-tap gesture on the earbuds for control. It’s functional, but not as intuitive as the force sensor.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Price
- Airpod 3rd Gen: Generally more expensive than the 2nd generation.
- 2nd Gen: More affordable, making them a good option for budget-conscious consumers.
- Winner: 2nd Gen
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Value | 2nd gen |
| Audio Quality | airpod 3rd gen |
| Features | airpod 3rd gen |
| Battery Life | airpod 3rd gen |
| Design | Tie |
| Water Resistance | airpod 3rd gen |
What They Have in Common:
- Design: Both AirPods generations share a similar lightweight and comfortable design, making them suitable for extended wear.
- Ease of Use: Both generations offer seamless pairing with Apple devices and easy access to Siri.
- Sound Quality: Both models provide a decent listening experience, offering clear audio for everyday use.
- Microphone Quality: Both feature dual beamforming microphones, ensuring clear voice pickup for calls and voice commands.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Both utilize Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable and reliable wireless connection.
AirPods 3rd Gen vs 2nd Gen Buying Guide
Sound Quality Comparison
The AirPods 3rd generation boasts significantly improved sound quality over the 2nd generation, primarily due to its spatial audio feature. This technology creates a more immersive and three-dimensional listening experience, making music and movies feel more engaging. While the 2nd generation provides decent audio, it lacks the richness and depth offered by the 3rd gen. The 3rd gen also has better bass response and overall clarity, leading to a more pleasant listening experience for most users.
Design and Comfort
Both generations share a similar lightweight and comfortable design, but the 3rd generation features a shorter stem, making them less prone to snagging on clothing or other objects. The 3rd gen also has a more contoured design which may fit a broader range of ear shapes. However, comfort can be subjective, and some users may find the fit of the 2nd generation preferable. Both models are designed to stay in your ear during moderate activity.
Battery Life and Charging
The AirPods 3rd generation offers a slightly improved battery life compared to the 2nd generation. With the charging case, the 3rd gen provides up to 30 hours of total listening time, while the 2nd gen provides up to 24 hours. The 3rd gen’s case also supports MagSafe charging, adding another convenient charging option. For heavy users, this extended battery life can be a significant advantage, reducing the need for frequent charging.
Features and Functionality
The AirPods 3rd generation includes several features not available on the 2nd generation, such as spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, adaptive EQ, and sweat and water resistance (IPX4 rating). Spatial audio enhances the listening experience, while adaptive EQ automatically tunes the sound to your ear shape. The water resistance provides peace of mind during workouts or in light rain, a feature absent in the 2nd generation.
Price and Value
The AirPods 3rd generation launched at a higher price point than the 2nd generation. However, the price difference reflects the improved features and performance. Considering the enhanced sound quality, longer battery life, and added features like spatial audio, the 3rd gen offers a better value for users seeking a premium listening experience. The 2nd gen is still a good option for budget-conscious users.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the 2nd and 3rd generation AirPods connect seamlessly to Apple devices via Bluetooth. The setup process is quick and easy. They also work with Android devices, although some features like spatial audio and automatic device switching are exclusive to Apple’s ecosystem. Both generations are compatible with devices supporting Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy airpod 3rd gen If…
- You want improved audio quality with Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ.
- You desire longer battery life.
- You want water resistance for workouts or outdoor activities.
- You want a MagSafe compatible charging case.
Buy 2nd gen If…
- You are on a tighter budget.
- You primarily use AirPods for casual listening and calls.
- You don’t need the advanced features of the 3rd generation.
- You prefer a simple, no-frills experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between AirPods 2nd and 3rd generation?
The primary differences lie in sound quality (spatial audio in 3rd gen), battery life (longer in 3rd gen), and features (adaptive EQ, water resistance in 3rd gen). The 3rd generation also has a redesigned shape and supports MagSafe charging, offering a more premium experience. The 2nd gen is more affordable.
Does the 3rd generation AirPods have noise cancellation?
No, neither the 2nd nor the 3rd generation AirPods have active noise cancellation (ANC). Both rely on a passive noise isolation through their design. If noise cancellation is a priority, consider the AirPods Pro models, which include this feature and offer a more comprehensive listening experience.
Are AirPods 3rd generation waterproof?
The AirPods 3rd generation are sweat and water-resistant (IPX4 rated), meaning they can withstand splashes and light rain, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use. However, they are not fully waterproof and should not be submerged in water. The 2nd gen does not have this protection.
How long does the battery last on AirPods 3rd generation?
The AirPods 3rd generation offer up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours of total listening time with the charging case. This is an improvement over the 2nd generation. Battery life will vary depending on usage, such as listening volume and the use of spatial audio.
Can I use AirPods 3rd generation with Android phones?
Yes, both AirPods generations are compatible with Android devices via Bluetooth. However, some features, such as automatic device switching and spatial audio, are optimized for use with Apple devices and may not be fully available on Android. The core functionality, such as listening to music and taking calls, will work.
Which AirPods are better for phone calls?
Both generations offer good call quality. The 3rd generation has improved microphones and acoustic mesh, which can help reduce wind noise and enhance clarity during calls. However, the difference in call quality isn’t drastically different. The 3rd gen offers a slight edge due to the design improvements.
Is it worth upgrading from AirPods 2nd generation to 3rd generation?
Upgrading from the 2nd to 3rd generation is worthwhile if you value better sound quality (spatial audio, improved bass), longer battery life, and added features like water resistance. The price difference reflects the improvements. If you’re content with the 2nd gen, the upgrade may not be essential, but the 3rd offers a more premium experience.
Final Verdict
The AirPods 3rd generation offers significant improvements over the 2nd generation, including spatial audio, enhanced battery life, and added features like water resistance and MagSafe charging. While the 2nd generation remains a solid and affordable option, the 3rd generation provides a superior listening experience and is the better choice for most users.
Winner: AirPods 3rd Gen