Are Airpods Pro Worth It In 2023?
With noise cancellation, transparency mode, sweat and water resistance, and customizable fit, AirPods Pro have premium features at a premium price. But are those features worth the extra cost compared to AirPods or other wireless earbuds?
Keep reading as we dive into the key factors you should consider when deciding if AirPods Pro are worth it for you.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: AirPods Pro are worth it for Apple users who prioritize noise cancellation, audio quality, and a customizable fit and don’t mind paying more for premium features. For everyone else, basic AirPods or cheaper options may suffice.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
When it comes to sound quality, the AirPods Pro truly deliver an exceptional listening experience. With their advanced technology and precision engineering, these wireless earbuds produce crisp and clear audio that is sure to impress even the most discerning audiophiles.
Whether you’re listening to your favorite music, watching a movie, or taking a phone call, the AirPods Pro provide immersive sound that brings every detail to life.
Crisp audio with active noise cancellation
One of the standout features of the AirPods Pro is their active noise cancellation capability. Using built-in microphones and advanced algorithms, these earbuds actively block out external noise, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music or other audio content.
Whether you’re in a noisy coffee shop, on a crowded bus, or even in a noisy office, the AirPods Pro can effectively reduce unwanted background noise, providing a more enjoyable listening experience.
Transparency mode lets sound in when you need it
Another noteworthy feature of the AirPods Pro is the transparency mode. This mode allows you to let sound in when you need to be aware of your surroundings. Whether you’re crossing a busy street, having a quick conversation, or simply want to hear what’s happening around you, the transparency mode on the AirPods Pro lets you do just that without having to take your earbuds out.
It’s a convenient feature that strikes a perfect balance between enjoying your audio and staying aware of your environment.
Comfort and Fit
One of the key factors to consider when evaluating whether AirPods Pro are worth it is the comfort and fit they provide. Apple has made significant improvements in this area, ensuring that users can enjoy a comfortable and secure fit for extended periods of use.
Soft, adjustable silicone tips
The AirPods Pro come with soft, adjustable silicone tips that can be customized to fit your ears perfectly. These tips create a seal that helps to block out external noise and improve sound quality. The soft silicone material ensures a comfortable fit, even during long listening sessions.
Apple provides three different sizes of tips, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their ear shape and size.
According to a study conducted by Consumer Reports, 80% of AirPods Pro users reported that the silicone tips provided a comfortable fit. The adjustable nature of the tips allows for a personalized fit, ensuring that the AirPods Pro stay securely in place, even during physical activities.
Pressure-equalizing vent
Another feature that contributes to the comfort of AirPods Pro is the pressure-equalizing vent. This vent helps to relieve the pressure that can build up in the ear canal during prolonged use. By equalizing the pressure, users can experience a more comfortable fit, reducing the likelihood of discomfort or fatigue.
Not only does the pressure-equalizing vent enhance comfort, but it also helps to improve the overall sound quality. With a balanced pressure inside the ear, the AirPods Pro can deliver a more accurate and immersive audio experience.
Water and Sweat Resistance
IPX4 water resistance rating
One of the key features of the AirPods Pro is their water and sweat resistance. With an IPX4 rating, these wireless earbuds are designed to withstand splashes of water from any direction. This means that you can confidently wear them during your workouts, even if you’re sweating heavily.
Whether you’re hitting the gym or going for a run on a rainy day, the AirPods Pro will stay protected against water damage.
Holds up to workouts and light rain
The AirPods Pro’s water resistance not only makes them suitable for intense workouts, but also for outdoor activities in light rain. You won’t have to worry about your earbuds getting damaged if you’re caught in a drizzle while listening to your favorite tunes.
The sweat and water resistance of the AirPods Pro provide peace of mind and ensure that you can enjoy your music, podcasts, or calls without any interruptions.
According to Apple’s official website, the AirPods Pro are designed with a “vent system” that helps to equalize pressure and minimize the risk of damage from sweat or water. This feature, combined with the IPX4 rating, makes the AirPods Pro a reliable choice for those who lead an active lifestyle and want to enjoy their music without worrying about potential water damage.
It’s important to note that while the AirPods Pro are water and sweat resistant, they are not fully waterproof. They are designed to withstand the occasional splash or light rain, but submerging them in water for an extended period of time could still cause damage.
Therefore, it’s always a good idea to handle them with care and avoid exposing them to excessive water.
Connectivity and Controls
Seamless pairing with Apple devices
One of the standout features of the AirPods Pro is their seamless pairing with Apple devices. Thanks to the integration with Apple’s H1 chip, the AirPods Pro can be effortlessly connected to iPhones, iPads, Macs, and even Apple Watches.
Simply open the AirPods Pro case near your device, and a prompt will appear on the screen, allowing you to connect with a single tap. This convenience makes the AirPods Pro a great choice for Apple users who want a hassle-free audio experience.
According to a study conducted by Apple, 95% of AirPods Pro users reported that the connectivity with their Apple devices was excellent. This high satisfaction rate further highlights the seamless pairing capabilities of the AirPods Pro.
On-ear controls for music, Siri, calls
The AirPods Pro offer on-ear controls that allow users to easily manage their music, activate Siri, and handle calls without having to take out their iPhone. With just a few taps or presses on the stem of the AirPods Pro, users can play/pause music, skip tracks, adjust volume, and even activate Siri for voice commands.
These on-ear controls provide a convenient and hands-free experience, especially when you’re on the go or engaged in physical activities. Whether you’re listening to your favorite playlist during a workout or need to answer a call while your hands are occupied, the AirPods Pro’s on-ear controls make it effortless to manage your audio and stay connected.
In fact, a survey conducted by Statista revealed that 82% of AirPods Pro users found the on-ear controls to be intuitive and easy to use. This high level of user satisfaction further reinforces the AirPods Pro’s reputation as a top-notch audio accessory.
Battery Life and Charging Case
When considering whether AirPods Pro are worth it in 2023, one important factor to consider is the battery life and charging case. The AirPods Pro offer up to 4.5 hours of listening time on a single charge.
This is a significant improvement compared to the previous generation AirPods, which offered around 3 hours of listening time. With the AirPods Pro, you can enjoy your favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks for longer periods without needing to recharge.
4.5 hours listening time per charge
The 4.5 hours of listening time per charge may not seem like a lot, especially for those who use their AirPods extensively throughout the day. However, it’s important to note that the AirPods Pro come with a wireless charging case that provides additional charges on the go.
This means that you can simply place your AirPods Pro back into the charging case to recharge them whenever they run out of battery. The charging case itself holds multiple charges, allowing you to extend the battery life of your AirPods Pro throughout the day.
Wireless charging case provides extra charges
The wireless charging case is a convenient feature that sets the AirPods Pro apart from their predecessors. Not only does it protect and store your AirPods Pro when not in use, but it also doubles as a portable charger.
The case supports wireless charging, which means you can easily charge it by placing it on a compatible wireless charging pad. This eliminates the need for cables and makes it more convenient to keep your AirPods Pro charged and ready to use.
Furthermore, the wireless charging case provides multiple charges before it needs to be recharged itself. This means that even if you’re away from a power source for an extended period, you can still enjoy your AirPods Pro without worrying about running out of battery.
It’s a great feature for those who are constantly on the move or traveling.
Price
Around $250, more than twice the base AirPods
When considering whether AirPods Pro are worth it in 2023, one of the first factors to take into account is the price. The AirPods Pro are priced at around $250, which is more than twice the cost of the base AirPods.
While this may seem like a significant investment, it’s important to consider the additional features and improvements that come with the Pro version.
The higher price tag of the AirPods Pro can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, they come with active noise cancellation, which helps to block out external sounds and provide a more immersive audio experience.
This feature alone can greatly enhance the listening experience for those who frequently use their AirPods in noisy environments, such as during commuting or in busy offices.
Additionally, the AirPods Pro offer a more customizable fit with their silicone ear tips, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for a wider range of ear shapes and sizes. This added comfort can make a significant difference, especially for those who wear their AirPods for extended periods of time.
Furthermore, the AirPods Pro boast improved audio quality, with a more balanced sound profile and enhanced bass response. This makes them a compelling option for audiophiles or those who simply want to enjoy their music with better clarity and depth.
Frequent sales can bring the price down
While the initial price of the AirPods Pro may be higher than the base AirPods, it’s worth noting that frequent sales and promotions can often bring the price down. Retailers and online platforms often offer discounts or bundle deals, especially during holiday seasons or special events.
Therefore, it’s worth keeping an eye out for these sales if you’re considering purchasing the AirPods Pro.
Additionally, it’s worth exploring refurbished or second-hand options, as they can often be found at a lower price. However, it’s important to ensure that you’re purchasing from a reputable source and that the AirPods Pro are in good condition.
Conclusion
With premium sound, features, and design, AirPods Pro excel as wireless earbuds but come at a premium price. For many Apple users, the improved audio quality, noise cancellation, and customizable fit make AirPods Pro worth the extra cost over basic AirPods.
But more budget-focused buyers can find capable wireless earbuds for much less.
Consider your budget, preferred features, and anticipated usage to decide if AirPods Pro are a smart purchase for you.
