Apple headphones are known for a high-quality audio experience. From the original earbuds to the latest generation of the AirPods Pro (2nd generation), they all deliver a lasting battery life, beamforming microphones, and personalized spatial audio. But how do you know which AirPods are the best fit for you? Read on to get a better sense of the available features.

Apple AirPods 

Apple released the first generation AirPods in December 2016. Driven by the custom Apple W1 chip, AirPods used optical sensors and a motion accelerometer to detect when they’re in your ears. Whether you’re using both AirPods or just one, the W1 chip automatically routed the audio and engaged the microphone. And when you’re on a call or talking to Siri, an additional accelerometer works with beamforming microphones to filter out background noise and focus on the sound of your voice. Because the ultralow-power W1 chip managed battery life so well, AirPods delivered an incredible 5 hours of listening time on one charge.¹ And they’re made to keep up with you, thanks to a charging case that held multiple additional charges for more than 24 hours of listening time.¹ And just 15 minutes in the case gives you 3 hours of listening time.¹

Apple AirPods (2nd generation)

Released in March 2019, AirPods (2nd generation) delivers the wireless headphone experience, reimagined. With a simple one-tap setup, AirPods are automatically on and always connected. AirPods can even sense when they're in your ears and pause when you take them out. Use Siri to adjust the volume, change the song, make a call or even get directions. You have the freedom to wear one or both AirPods, and you can play or skip forward with a double-tap when listening to music or podcasts.

The 2nd generation still delivers the same battery life as the first, but got a chip upgrade in the form of the Apple H1 headphone chip. The H1 chip automatically routes the audio and engages the microphone. And when you're on a call or talking to Siri, an additional speech-detecting accelerometer works with beamforming microphones to filter out external noise and focus on the sound of your voice.

Apple AirPods Pro

AirPods went Pro in October 2019. AirPods Pro features Active Noise Cancellation for immersive sound. Transparency mode for hearing the world around you. They're sweat and water resistant² and have a customizable fit for all-day comfort. 

Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking places sound all around you for an immersive experience. Adaptive EQ automatically tunes music to your ears. Force sensor lets you easily control your entertainment, answer or end calls, and more. Get more than 24 hours total listening time with the charging case.¹

With Siri access, effortless setup, in-ear detection, and automatic switching, AirPods Pro takes listening to the next level. And, you can also easily share audio between two sets of AirPods on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Apple TV.

Apple AirPods Max

In December 2020, Apple reimagined over-ear headphones with AirPods Max. An Apple-designed dynamic driver provides immersive high-fidelity audio. Every detail, from canopy to cushions, has been designed for an exceptional fit. Industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation blocks outside noise, while Transparency mode lets it in. And spatial audio with dynamic head tracking provides theater-like sound that surrounds you.

Computational audio combines custom acoustic design with the Apple H1 chip and software for breakthrough listening experiences. Designed with a knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions for an exceptional fit, while having the effortless setup, on-head detection, and seamless switching between devices that you would expect from AirPods. Easily share audio between two sets of AirPods on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Apple TV. AirPods Max have up to 20 hours of listening, movie watching, or talk time with Active Noise Cancellation and spatial audio enabled, and you can store in ultra low-power mode with the slim Smart Case.¹

AirPods (3.ª generación) de Apple

In October 2021, AirPods (3rd generation) provided an upgrade for the original Apple earbuds. This upgrade adds Personalized Spatial Audio that places sound all around you,2 as well as longer battery life for up to 30 hours of listening time.1 It's sweat and water-resistant and delivers an experience that's simply magical.³

Force sensor lets you control your entertainment and answer or end calls. Both Lightning Charging Case or MagSafe Charging Case offer versatile charging options. Get quick access to Siri. And, they work with Find My with proximity view for AirPods.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation)

Released in September 2022, AirPods Pro features up to 2 times more Active Noise Cancellation than the first generation, plus Adaptive Transparency, and Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for immersive sound. Now with multiple ear tips (XS, S, M, L) for an improved fit and up to 6 hours of listening time, and up to 30 hours with the charging case.¹

Touch control lets you swipe to adjust volume, press to direct media playback, answer or end calls, and press and hold to switch between listening modes. Both the case and earbuds are sweat and water resistant. The MagSafe Charging Case with speaker and lanyard loop makes it easy to take your AirPods Pro on the go. Get quick access to Siri, as well as easy setup, in-ear detection, and automatic switching between devices. Audio Sharing is available between two sets of AirPods on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Apple TV. And, you can track down your lost AirPods with the Find My with proximity view for AirPods Pro and Precision Finding for charging case.

What are the best AirPods for me?

What AirPods are the best fit for your life ultimately depends on what you need. If you are always on the go and want to block out background noise, AirPods Max would be a great fit, as both have Adaptive Transparency and Active Noise Canceling. But if you have a heavy workout, a more sweat and water resistant design like the AirPods (3rd generation) would fit the bill. And if you want both? Go pro with the AirPods Pro. Check out the summary chart below and see which current model has everything you need.

Choose your AirPods today.

Upgrade your listening experience with the AirPods of your choice today. Check out all of the Apple headphones available at Verizon.

_{1. Battery life and charge cycles vary with use, settings, and other factors; actual results will vary.}

_{2. Spatial Audio works with movies, TV, and video in supported apps. iPhone with TrueDepth camera required to create personalized profile.}

_{3. AirPods (3rd generation) are sweat and water resistant for non-water sports and exercise, and they are IPX4 rated. Sweat and water resistance are not permanent conditions.}