Apple AirPods 5 Review: Better Than Before but Not Quite Pro
Apple finally made ANC standard across the AirPods lineup. But should you still spring for the AirPods Pro 3?
In a review of the Apple AirPods 5, a reporter finds them to be an improvement over their predecessors but not quite as good as the AirPods Pro 3. The AirPods 5 come in two versions: one priced at $129 and the other at $149, depending on the type of case. Both versions feature active noise cancellation (ANC) and come with a standard case or a wireless charging case, which provides more battery life.
The AirPods 5 have exceptional ANC, removing up to 50% more external noise compared to the AirPods 4. They also support Conversation Awareness, Live Translation, Spatial Audio, and Siri features. However, the reviewer notes that the AirPods Pro 3 offer a more secure fit, integrated heart-rate sensing, and longer battery life with ANC enabled.
For casual listeners, the AirPods 5 are a good choice due to their solid noise cancellation and open-ear design. However, for frequent runners and frequent travelers, the reviewer recommends spending $249 on the AirPods Pro 3, as they offer a more secure fit, stronger noise cancellation, and more accessible controls.
Written by urgent.news from Wired's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.