🎧 Apple AirPods Pro 2 Review – Hear More, Tune Out the Rest
After four weeks of daily use—in offices, on commutes, through workouts, and while editing audio—here’s a grounded, real-world review of the AirPods Pro 2 (USB‑C version). This goes beyond specs, delivering meaningful insights about comfort, sound quality, hearing health, and usability.
First Impressions & Setup
Unboxing the AirPods Pro 2 (USB‑C), you’re met with Apple’s clean, premium design: a compact case, lightweight earbuds, and a magnetic lid with a satisfying snap. Pairing was instant with my iPhone thanks to iCloud sync, and switching between devices felt seamless on my iPad and MacBook.
Active Noise Cancellation & Adaptive Transparency
Enabled ANC is noticeably stronger than the first generation—effectively blocking background noise like chatter and city sounds. In Transparency mode, environmental sounds come through naturally, while Adaptive Audio blends ANC and transparency automatically. When I spoke to others, Conversation Awareness lowered playback volume so I could keep talking without manually pausing.
Sound Quality, H2 Chip & Spatial Audio
Thanks to the H2 chip, these earbuds deliver crisp highs, rich bass, and cleaner mid-tones. The custom driver and low distortion make music sound immersive, especially when paired with Personalized Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos sources—audio cues felt “all around” me. Voice quality during calls was excellent, and Voice Isolation reduced background noise noticeably.
Hearing Health: Built‑In Hearing Aid & Test
With iOS 18+, you can take a clinically validated hearing test via the AirPods Pro. It adapts sound output based on your audiogram—ideal for mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Apple’s Hearing Aid and Media Assist features personalize amplification and ambient noise reduction, enhancing clarity without professional equipment.
Fit, Comfort & Passive Isolation
With four silicone tip sizes (XS, S, M, L), I was able to achieve a snug seal critical for effective ANC and sound fidelity. The passive isolation is strong, and the earbuds stayed secure even during movement. Overall, the comfort allowed for hours of listening without fatigue.
Durability, Sweat & Water Resistance
Rated IP54 for dust, sweat, and water resistance, the AirPods Pro 2 didn’t falter during rainy runs or gym workouts. While not submersible, they handled moisture well—just avoid showering or swimming with them.
Battery Life & Charging Options
With ANC enabled, I got around 6 hours of continuous playback per charge, and nearly 30 hours total with the charging case. Charging via USB‑C, MagSafe, Apple Watch charger, or Qi pad all worked seamlessly, including Precision Finding support.Minor Limitations
- Noise cancellation relies on AAC codec only, so audiophiles using Android may miss higher-quality codecs like LDAC or aptX.
- At six hours per charge, battery life is average—some competing earbuds offer well over eight hours.
- Hearing Test functionality depends on being paired with a supported iPhone or iPad running iOS 18+.
✅ Standout Features Summary
- Leading ANC performance, twice as effective as previous gen
- Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness for context-aware listening
- Personalized Spatial Audio for immersive Dolby Atmos experiences
- Built-in hearing test and hearing-aid-grade assist for wellness-focused listening
- USB‑C and MagSafe charging, along with Precision Finding
- IP54 protection, ideal for sweat and dust resistance