Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation (USB-C)
EditIndustry-leading Active Noise Cancellation with H2 chip, Adaptive Audio, Personalized Spatial Audio, USB-C charging, and IP54 dust/water resistance.
Our Verdict
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) are simply the best wireless earbuds for iPhone users. The combination of industry-leading ANC, innovative Adaptive Audio, exceptional sound quality, and seamless ecosystem integration creates an unmatched listening experience. While the premium price may give pause, the feature set and build quality justify every penny for those invested in Apple's ecosystem.
What We Like
- Best-in-class Active Noise Cancellation (2x improvement)
- Adaptive Audio intelligently adjusts to environment
- Exceptional sound quality with H2 chip
- USB-C charging with MagSafe and Qi support
- IP54 dust and water resistance
- Conversation Awareness and Personalized Volume
- FDA-approved hearing aid functionality
- Seamless Apple ecosystem integration
- 6 hours playback (30 hours with case)
What Could Be Better
- Premium price at $249
- Best features limited to Apple devices
- No lossless audio over Bluetooth (only with Vision Pro)
- Android users lose many smart features
- No wireless charging case included with base model
Specifications
| Chip | Apple H2 |
| Active Noise Cancellation | 2x more effective than Gen 1 |
| Battery Life (Earbuds) | 6 hours with ANC |
| Battery Life (Total) | 30 hours with case |
| Charging | USB-C, MagSafe, Qi, Apple Watch charger |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IP54 (earbuds and case) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Audio Codecs | AAC, SBC |
| Weight | 5.3g per earbud, 50.8g case |
| Spatial Audio | Personalized with head tracking |
Full Review
Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) Review: The Gold Standard for Wireless Earbuds
The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation with USB-C sets the benchmark for true wireless earbuds. With the powerful H2 chip, industry-leading noise cancellation, and seamless Apple ecosystem integration, these are the earbuds to beat in 2026.
Revolutionary H2 Chip Performance
The updated H2 chip now operates on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz connections, enabling high-quality audio transmission with 20-bit depth and 48kHz sampling rate to supported Apple devices. This translates to noticeably richer, more detailed sound compared to competitors.
Unmatched Active Noise Cancellation
Apple claims 2x more effective noise cancellation than the first generation, and real-world testing confirms it. The AirPods Pro 2 effectively silence airplane engines, busy coffee shops, and city traffic, letting you focus on your music or podcasts without distraction.
Adaptive Audio: The Game Changer
New to iOS 17, Adaptive Audio intelligently blends Transparency mode and ANC based on your environment. Walking on a busy street? It lets through important sounds while blocking traffic noise. In a quiet office? Full noise cancellation kicks in automatically.
Additional Smart Features
- Conversation Awareness: Automatically lowers volume and enhances voices when you start speaking
- Personalized Volume: Learns your preferences and adjusts based on ambient noise
- Personalized Spatial Audio: Uses TrueDepth camera to map your ear shape for optimized 3D sound
- FDA-Approved Hearing Aid: Built-in hearing test and hearing aid functionality
USB-C Convenience
The switch to USB-C means you can charge your AirPods with the same cable as your MacBook, iPad, and iPhone 15. The case also supports MagSafe, Qi wireless charging, and even Apple Watch chargers.
Enhanced Durability
The USB-C version features improved IP54 rating (vs IPX4 on Lightning version), offering protection against dust and water splashes from all directions. Perfect for workouts and outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are AirPods Pro 2 worth the upgrade from AirPods Pro 1?
Yes, the 2x improved ANC, Adaptive Audio, longer battery life, and new features like Conversation Awareness make it a significant upgrade. USB-C charging is also more convenient.
Do AirPods Pro 2 work with Android phones?
Yes, they connect via Bluetooth and provide excellent sound and ANC. However, you lose features like Adaptive Audio, Personalized Spatial Audio, automatic device switching, and Siri integration.
What is the difference between USB-C and Lightning AirPods Pro 2?
USB-C version has IP54 rating (vs IPX4), supports lossless audio with Vision Pro, and uses the universal USB-C standard. Audio quality and ANC performance are identical.
How long do AirPods Pro 2 last on a single charge?
With ANC enabled, expect 6 hours of listening time. The case provides an additional 24 hours, totaling 30 hours. A 5-minute charge gives about 1 hour of playback.
Can I use AirPods Pro 2 as hearing aids?
Yes, the AirPods Pro 2 are FDA-approved as over-the-counter hearing aids. You can take a hearing test within the Health app and enable hearing aid functionality.
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