Apple is gradually expanding its sphere of activity and is trying to become an independent audio brand that deserves the trust of customers. As far as it succeeds - we will see on the example of the latest models of AirPods.
Best AirPods
AirPods have practically become a household name among headsets. In terms of functionality, usability, and call quality, they really are considered one of the best. But in terms of music playback they are not so smooth.
Apple AirPods Pro
The flagship model with moisture protection
Wireless headphones reach their maximum potential only in conjunction with other Apple devices. Beyond that, the only thing that might discourage such a purchase is the still very high cost.
Reasons to buy:
- Active noise cancellation.
- Virtual surround sound.
- Multifunctionality.
- IPX4 moisture protection.
- Long working life when connected to the case.
- Easy-to-use controls.
Wireless headphones, combining stylish design and high quality sound, provide a complete immersion in the musical atmosphere. It is achieved with the help of Active Noise Cancellation technology and sound optimization tailored to the shape of your ear. A wide-amplitude driver is responsible for powerful bass. There is also a built-in amplifier with which the chip H1 adjusts the volume.
The model connects to other devices using Bluetooth version 5.0. Three pairs of silicone earmolds help you find the right size, while also creating passive noise cancellation.
For convenience, the Siri assistant can be called by voice command, as well as "Transparent Mode," which allows you to hear the outside world again. Another useful feature is "Sharing," which allows you to listen to audio from one smartphone from two pairs of AirPods Pro.
Apple AirPods 2.
The most popular model.
A good choice for owners of Apple smartphones, especially if a person is not too picky about sound quality. The headset offers stable wireless connection and charging, as well as increased battery life compared to the previous generation.
Pros:
- Advanced H1 chip.
- Stable wireless connection.
- Convenient controls.
- More affordable than other Apple headphones.
Cons:
- Not perfect sound.
The second generation of Apple headphones is as close as possible to the flagship - the Pro version. Like the older model, AirPods 2 connects instantly to your BT devices and is ready to use right away.
The headphones are powered by the new H1 microprocessor. Useful features are provided: "Sharing," as well as a sensor that automatically stops music when the headphones are removed. The model supports voice commands for the virtual assistant Siri.
Charging is done both with a cable for the Lightning connector, and without it: a case built into the standard Qi module. The battery life of the headphones is 5 hours in music listening mode, and for an additional 3 hours they need only 15 minutes of charging.
Apple AirPods Max
Full-size headphones.
This is more of an image accessory that shows the wealth of the owner, rather than headphones for listening to music. In terms of sound quality, the device is noticeably inferior to competitors in its price segment.
Pros:
- Voluminous sound.
- Active noise cancelling.
- 20 hours of battery life.
- Intelligent design.
- Audio transparency mode.
Cons:
- Ill-conceived case.
All design elements of the full-size wireless headphones ensure a comfortable fit to the head. The cups are made of anodized aluminum and feature a swivel mechanism. Two H1 chips and an adaptive equalizer that adjusts to the position of the headphone on your head, creating stunning surround sound.
The Active Noise Cancellation system consists of eight microphones: six pick up external noise, and two more evaluate the sound that the person in the headphones hears.
With the Digital Crown wheel, the user has full control of the device: activate Siri, adjust the volume, switch music and take calls. Five color options for the model are available, including green and pink.
Apple AirPods
For owners of previous iPhone models
Not bad, although inferior to the latest Apple devices, the model is suitable for owners of older iPhones and other gadgets of the company. In other cases, it is reasonable to pay extra for modern options.
Pros:
- Easy operation.
- Fast charging.
- High quality build.
- Includes charging case.
Cons:
- Inferior in functionality to the new generation of headphones.
- Still a rather high price.
The model of the previous generation of the AirPods line of headphones is based on the W1 chip. The device is equipped with an accelerometer and optical sensors. Playing music starts as soon as the user puts on the headphones, and stops when you take them off.
Sound quality is comparable with the models of the budget class: you do not have to wait for a full-fledged powerful sound. But the microphone with variable directivity suppresses external noise during communication, so as a headset AirPods are worthy of attention.
The headphones are designed for 24 hours of battery life when connected to the charging case and 5 hours without the case. A quick 15-minute recharge gives you an additional 3 hours of music listening.
A double tap brings up the Siri voice assistant to control both the droplets themselves and some of the phone's functions. Connection to other devices is via Bluetooth of the older version 4.2.
Processors in Apple headphones
The great popularity of Apple headphones is due to many factors: clever construction, stylish design and technological advancement. For the latter is largely responsible chip installed inside the device.
The first generation of AirPods runs on a microprocessor W1 of Apple's own design. The chip is responsible for most of the functions of the headphones, including the transfer of sound to the speakers. Compared to conventional wireless devices, it gives them a number of advantages:
- Increased power efficiency and extended battery life of the headphones.
- Bluetooth data transfer with AAC support.
- Instant automatic synchronization with Apple devices.
- Siri voice assistant call.
In addition, the W1 chip automatically turns on the microphone and redistributes audio if only one earphone is connected.
The AAC format is optimized for the iOS operating system. Maximum sound quality and stability of the wireless connection is achieved when connecting the headphones to other Apple devices.
The second generation models are equipped with a more advanced 10-core H1 chip, which has significantly expanded the capabilities of the headphones:
- The Siri assistant now launches with a voice command.
- Improved power efficiency gave an additional +1 hour of talk time.
- The speed of switching between active devices has doubled.
- 30% reduction in audio latency in games.
- The data transfer speed via the new version of Bluetooth 5.0 has doubled, and the connection radius to other devices has increased by 4.
As a result, the upgraded headphones produce clear sound with minimal delays with a stable wireless connection both when talking and when playing games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect AirPods to my Android device?
Yes, both generations of headphones are compatible with Android smartphones and tablets. However, the connection speed in this case is slightly slower than with Apple devices. In addition, it is not possible to use auto-pause mode and adjust the noise cancellation.
Is it worth paying extra for the AirPods Pro?
Barring additional pairs of interchangeable earmolds, the main advantage of the Pro version is the improved noise cancellation system. Now you don't have to turn up the volume of your music to drown out extraneous sounds. Whether this is worth the substantial extra cost is up to the buyer to decide.
Can I play sports on my Apple headphones?
Yes, you can. For example, the AirPods Pro are IPX4-rated, which means they're protected against direct splashing water and sweat. The headphones will not fail during an intense workout at the gym or a long marathon in the rain, but to immerse the device in water is still impossible.