What is the difference between the AirPods Pro and the AirPods?
Apple recently introduced new third-generation AirPods. But what is the difference between the new AirPods Pro and the “normal” AirPods? Here is an overview.
There were already rumors about new AirPods – in the end, only the “when” was the question. Now it is official . But many do not yet know all the differences to the previous generations. The biggest innovation is clearly the new in-ear design. This has enabled the long-awaited function of noise cancellation. The new ANC feature appears in two different modes. Users can choose between active noise cancellation and transparency mode. The second allows users to hear sounds in their environment despite the music being played.
Apple describes the feature as follows:
“AirPods Pro’s active noise cancellation uses two microphones in combination with advanced software to continuously adapt to your ear and headphone customization. This removes background noise to provide a uniquely customized, high-quality noise cancellation experience that allows a user to focus on what they hear – whether it’s a favorite song or a phone call. “
In addition to noise reduction, the new AirPods Pro have an adaptive equalizer. That is, this automatically tunes the low and mid frequencies to the shape of the ear. Accordingly, the AirPods Pro offer an individual listening experience. They are also sweat and water repellent, but not suitable for water sports – please note.
This is what AirPods Pro and AirPods have in common
Of course, there are also similarities. Both the AirPods Pro and the AirPods of the second generation have the same H1 chip – this allows both models to use the popular “Hey Siri” feature. An advantage not offered by the first generation of AirPods. For the loading case, Apple has a running time of 24 hours in total. But there is a small but subtle difference here. While the AirPods 2 can perform about 5 hours of playback with just one charge, the AirPods Pro come to only 4.5 hours according to the data sheet. But this small deviation is due to the ANC feature. Thus, Apple notes in the footer that with deactivated noise suppression, the running time of the AirPods Pro could also be around 5 hours.
The controller, size and weight in comparison
Another innovation is the pressure sensor. While AirPods 1 and 2 can only handle a single or double tap, the AirPods Pro controls include a single, double and triple tip. In addition, the “hold down” option is used to switch between active and transparent noise cancellation. Due to the new design, the AirPods Pro are a little shorter compared to their predecessors, but a bit deeper and wider. In terms of weight, the AirPods Pro are a little heavier at 5.4 grams each than AirPods 1 and 2 at around 4 grams.
Help – my ears are too big! Will the AirPods Pro fit me?
However, many users ask themselves a particularly important question – namely: “Do I like the AirPods Pro”? Who had problems with the normal AirPods should not be afraid of the same with the Pro version. The AirPods Pro use a rubber bag. These are available in three different sizes. So the AirPods Pro should fit in any ear – small, big or anything in between.
AirPods Pro and the AirPods Prices and equipment
Finally, we would like to clarify the prices as well as the content, because here is a remarkable surprise. While the second-generation AirPods ship with a standard cargo case or optional Qi-enabled case, the AirPods Pro are only available with a Qi-enabled charging case. But now comes the highlight. The AirPods Pro will not ship with a simple USB-A to Lightning cable. Apple is adding the new plugs to a USB-C to Lightning cable. Finally, we want to clarify the price issue, of course. The AirPods Pro cost about 279 euros while the AirPods 2 are available for 229 euros or 179 euros. In the latter case, the set can be ordered optionally with a Qi-compatible charging case or the normal charging case.
