Airpods Showdown: Apple Airpods 2nd Gen vs 3rd Gen
Are you torn between the Apple AirPods 2nd generation and the newer 3rd generation? Choosing the right pair of earbuds can feel overwhelming with so many options. This comparison will help you navigate the features and decide which AirPods best suit your needs and budget.
We’ll dive deep into the differences, from design and sound quality to battery life and extra features. The Apple AirPods 3rd gen boast some significant upgrades, but are they worth the extra cost? Let’s find out.
Whether you’re an existing AirPods user looking to upgrade or a newcomer to the Apple ecosystem, this guide provides a clear and concise breakdown. We’ll explore everything from the charging case to the spatial audio capabilities to help you make an informed decision about the Apple AirPods 2nd gen vs 3rd gen.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | 2nd Gen | 3rd Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | H1 | H1 |
| Spatial Audio | No | Yes |
| Charging Case | Wired or Wireless (optional) | Wired or Wireless (MagSafe) |
| Water Resistance | No | IPX4 |
| Active Noise Cancellation | No | No |
| Transparency Mode | No | No |
| Battery Life (per charge) | Up to 5 hours | Up to 6 hours |
| Total Battery Life (with case) | Up to 24 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Adaptive EQ | No | Yes |
| Force Sensor Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Audio Codec Support | AAC | AAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design
- Apple Airpod 2nd Gen: Features a stem design similar to the original AirPods. They offer a comfortable fit for some, but can be less secure for others. They lack the in-ear design of the 3rd gen.
- 3rd Gen: Boasts a shorter stem and a more contoured design, providing a more universal and secure fit. They also have a more ergonomic design for a more comfortable experience.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Audio Quality
- Apple Airpod 2nd Gen: Delivers decent audio quality with a focus on ease of use. They lack some of the advanced features of the 3rd gen, such as spatial audio. Sound quality is adequate for casual listening.
- 3rd Gen: Offers improved audio quality with spatial audio, and adaptive EQ. This provides a more immersive and balanced listening experience. Sound is generally richer and more detailed.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Chip/Processing
- Apple Airpod 2nd Gen: Utilizes the H1 chip, enabling quick pairing and seamless switching between Apple devices. It supports “Hey Siri” functionality. Performance is generally reliable.
- 3rd Gen: Also uses the H1 chip, but benefits from updated processing power, improving overall performance and efficiency. It also supports “Hey Siri”.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Apple Airpod 2nd Gen: Offers up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 24 hours with the charging case. Battery life is decent but can drain quickly with heavy use.
- 3rd Gen: Provides up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case. Improved battery life compared to the 2nd gen.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Charging Case
- Apple Airpod 2nd Gen: Comes with a charging case that supports wired charging via Lightning. Some models offer optional wireless charging.
- 3rd Gen: Features a MagSafe charging case, offering both wired and wireless charging capabilities, including MagSafe charging.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Water Resistance
- Apple Airpod 2nd Gen: Does not offer any official water resistance rating. They are not designed to withstand sweat or water.
- 3rd Gen: Offers an IPX4 water resistance rating, making them splash-proof and sweat-resistant.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Price
- Apple Airpod 2nd Gen: Generally more affordable than the 3rd gen, making them a budget-friendly option.
- 3rd Gen: Priced higher than the 2nd gen, reflecting the added features and improvements.
- Winner: 2nd Gen
Call Quality
- Apple Airpod 2nd Gen: Provides decent call quality, but can struggle in noisy environments.
- 3rd Gen: Offers improved call quality with a new acoustic mesh and inward-facing microphone for better voice pickup.
- Winner: 3rd Gen
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Audio Quality | 3rd Gen |
| Features | 3rd Gen |
| Battery Life | 3rd Gen |
| Value | 2nd Gen |
| Design | Tie |
| Water Resistance | 3rd Gen |
What They Have in Common:
- Chip: Both the 2nd and 3rd generation AirPods utilize the Apple H1 chip, providing seamless pairing, fast device switching, and improved connection stability.
- Force Sensor Controls: Both models use the force sensor located on the stems to control music playback, answer calls, and activate Siri, offering a similar user experience.
- Design: Both generations share a similar design aesthetic, featuring the iconic white earbuds and a charging case. The overall look and feel are consistent.
- Easy Setup: Both AirPods generations are known for their easy setup process, instantly connecting to Apple devices with a simple tap.
- Siri Integration: Both AirPods generations feature Siri integration, allowing users to control music, make calls, and get information using voice commands.
Apple AirPod 2nd Gen vs 3rd Gen Buying Guide
Sound Quality
The 3rd generation AirPods significantly improve upon the 2nd generation in sound quality. They feature Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, creating a more immersive listening experience. While the 2nd gen AirPods offer decent audio, they lack the richness and clarity found in the newer model. The 3rd gen also boasts improved bass response and overall audio balance. This makes the 3rd gen a clear winner for audiophiles or anyone who prioritizes a superior listening experience.
Design and Comfort
Both generations share a similar, lightweight design, but the 3rd gen AirPods feature a shorter stem and a more contoured shape. This updated design often provides a more comfortable and secure fit for a wider range of ear shapes. The 2nd gen AirPods can sometimes feel less secure during vigorous activities. The 3rd gen’s design also contributes to a more discreet look. Ultimately, the 3rd gen design presents an upgrade in both aesthetics and comfort, making it a better choice for all-day wear.
Features and Functionality
The 3rd gen AirPods introduce several new features, including Adaptive EQ, which automatically tunes the music to the shape of your ear. They also offer sweat and water resistance, a feature not available on the 2nd gen. Both models include easy setup, access to Siri, and seamless switching between Apple devices. However, the 3rd gen’s added features, especially Adaptive EQ and water resistance, give it an edge in terms of overall functionality and usability. These enhancements significantly boost user experience.
Battery Life and Charging
The 3rd generation AirPods offer a slight improvement in battery life compared to the 2nd generation. With the charging case, the 3rd gen provides up to 30 hours of listening time, while the 2nd gen offers around 24 hours. The 3rd gen also supports MagSafe charging. This convenience makes it easier to charge the case. Although the difference may seem subtle, the extended battery life and the addition of MagSafe charging capabilities make the 3rd generation a more practical choice, especially for frequent travelers or heavy users.
Price and Value
The 2nd generation AirPods are typically more affordable than the 3rd generation. This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, when considering the improved features, sound quality, and design of the 3rd generation, the slight price difference might be justifiable for many users. Evaluating the overall value, the 3rd gen offers more features for the price. Consider your budget and desired features to determine the best value for your needs.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both generations of AirPods seamlessly integrate with Apple devices, offering quick pairing and easy switching between iPhone, iPad, and Mac. The 3rd generation, however, benefits from the latest Bluetooth 5.0, providing a more stable and reliable connection. Both models offer similar compatibility across other Bluetooth-enabled devices, but the updated Bluetooth version in the 3rd gen ensures a more consistent experience. The ease of use and seamless integration across the Apple ecosystem remain a key selling point for both.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy apple airpod 2nd gen If…
- You’re on a budget and want a more affordable entry point into the AirPods ecosystem.
- You prioritize simplicity and are satisfied with basic features.
- You don’t need water resistance for workouts.
- You want a familiar design.
Buy 3rd gen If…
- You want improved audio quality with Spatial Audio.
- You value a longer battery life and a more advanced charging case.
- You want some water resistance for workouts and outdoor use.
- You are willing to pay a little more for the latest features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between AirPods 2nd and 3rd generation?
The primary differences lie in sound quality (3rd gen has Spatial Audio), design (3rd gen has a shorter stem and contoured fit), and features (3rd gen includes Adaptive EQ and water resistance). The 3rd gen also offers slightly improved battery life and supports MagSafe charging. The 2nd gen is more affordable, but the upgrades in the 3rd gen offer a more enhanced experience.
Does the 3rd generation AirPods have noise cancellation?
No, the 3rd generation AirPods, like the 2nd generation, do not have active noise cancellation (ANC). However, the 3rd gen features Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ, which enhance the listening experience. If noise cancellation is a high priority, you might need to consider the AirPods Pro models, which include this feature, providing a more immersive and quiet listening experience.
Are the 3rd generation AirPods water resistant?
Yes, the 3rd generation AirPods are sweat and water resistant, offering protection against light rain and splashes. This feature is a significant improvement over the 2nd generation, which lacks any water resistance. This makes the 3rd gen a better choice for workouts or outdoor activities. However, they are not fully waterproof and should not be submerged.
How is the battery life different between the two models?
The 3rd generation AirPods offer slightly better battery life than the 2nd generation. The 3rd gen provides up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge (5 hours with Spatial Audio enabled) and up to 30 hours with the charging case. The 2nd gen offers around 5 hours on a single charge and up to 24 hours with the charging case.
Which AirPods model is better for phone calls?
Both models offer good call quality, but the 3rd generation AirPods have improved microphones and voice clarity. The 3rd gen also features an inward-facing microphone that helps to reduce background noise during calls, which enhances the calling experience. Both are capable for calls, but the 3rd gen provides a slight upgrade in clarity.
Can I use the 3rd generation AirPods with Android devices?
Yes, both the 2nd and 3rd generation AirPods can be used with Android devices via Bluetooth. The experience is not as seamless as with Apple devices, and you may lose some features, such as automatic device switching and the ability to customize settings. However, basic functionality such as music playback and call answering will still work.
What is Spatial Audio and how does it work?
Spatial Audio is a feature available on the 3rd gen AirPods that uses dynamic head tracking to create a more immersive listening experience. It adjusts the sound based on your head movements, making it feel like the sound is coming from different directions. This technology simulates a surround sound effect, enhancing the overall listening experience, especially when watching videos or listening to music with Dolby Atmos.
Final Verdict
The 3rd generation AirPods represent a significant upgrade over the 2nd generation, offering improved sound quality, a more comfortable design, and added features like Adaptive EQ and water resistance. While the 2nd gen remains a viable budget option, the enhanced experience provided by the 3rd gen, particularly with Spatial Audio and longer battery life, makes it the superior choice for most users seeking a premium listening experience.
Winner: Apple AirPods 3rd Gen