Apple has reigned supreme over wireless headphones for nearly a decade with its AirPods. And if you've ever tried to switch from listening on an iPhone to a MacBook without your hair falling out in frustration, you know why many people stay within Apple's "walled garden." With automatic device switching, audio sharing, and seamless connectivity to Apple TV, AirPods are still the "It" piece of tech for Apple fans.
AirPods?! But the confusion sets in when we realize there are three models of AirPods. And no, they're not all created equal. So let's go one by one—with an added dose of sarcasm, a healthy dose of data, and a dash of cosmopolitan wisdom.
🏆 Best AirPods Overall: AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C)
Price: €169 (instead of €249)
For whom: For those who want the best — and more.
Where: Amazon
If Apple had added a coffee-making feature to the AirPods Pro 2, you'd be forgiven for thinking they still looked the same as they did three years ago. Thankfully, their power lies inside: improved active noise cancellation, clearer, more balanced sound, and nifty features to protect your hearing—yes, Apple is now your mini ENT specialist.
Don't be surprised if you start getting diagnosed with mild hearing loss. AirPods Pro 2 can do more than just play Taylor Swift—they can also act as clinical hearing aids.
Add in volume control by simply swiping the stem and a U1 chip that enables precise “Find My”-style searching, and you have headphones that can do almost anything. Well, except understand your mom on the phone – that remains a major unsolved problem of modern technology.
👂 Best for those who don't like silicone tips: AirPods 4
Price: €137 (instead of €152)
For whom: Minimalists who prefer openness — in headphones and in life.
Where: Amazon
Don't like that feeling of your ears being plugged up like you're in a submarine? Well, the AirPods 4 are your answer. Their open design means you're always in touch with your surroundings — for better or worse. They may not have top-notch ANC (active noise cancellation), but hey, even the classics have their charm.
And if you opt for the slightly more expensive version, you'll get a few more goodies: wireless charging and basic "Find My" functionality. But honestly, if you're after silence, why not go all the way and get the AirPods Pro 2?
AirPods 4 are more for those who enjoy music casually while thinking about their next cold brew.
🎧 Best for classic headphone lovers: AirPods Max (USB-C)
Price: €480 (instead of €549)
For whom: Aesthetes with a strong neck and a bad opinion of the competition.
Where: Amazon
The AirPods Max are like the limousine of headphones – heavy, comfortable and shiny. You won't exactly run a marathon in them, but for evenings with vinyl ambiance on Apple Music (lossless via USB-C, of course) – they're the perfect choice.
The sound is rich, and the surround effect can teleport you to a concert hall before you even decide what to listen to. The downsides? Oh yeah: no 3.5mm input (because why would it be simple?), you need an extra cable for wired listening (not included, of course), and the case you store them in is… well, a crime against design.
However, if your heart desires something prestigious, the AirPods Max are your ticket to the world of Apple luxury.
Conclusion: So which AirPods are right for you?
- For technical perfectionists with a love for detail: AirPods Pro 2
- For minimalists with sensitive ears: AirPods 4
- For audiophiles with style: AirPods Max
- For those who would prefer everything at once: Think again. This isn't a Pokémon game - you don't need to catch them all.
Do not forget: all AirPods work best within the Apple ecosystem. So if you're using Android... well, that's like driving a Ferrari on dirt. Possible, but why would you?
Which AirPods did you choose? Are you happy with them or have you already lost them between the seats of the couch? Share your experience in the comments below and on social media.
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