Deep Dive: Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) - The Good, the Bad, and the Untapped Potential
Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) were released in March 2019, following the successful launch of the original AirPods in 2017. They have since become one of the most popular pairs of wireless earbuds due to their sleek design, deep Apple integration, and advanced software features. However, they are not without their flaws, particularly when it comes to sound quality and comfort.
Design and Comfort
Apple is known for its exceptional build quality and design, and the AirPods (2nd Generation) are no exception. Made primarily of plastic, the charging case is lightweight and sturdy enough to be carried in your pocket. The case has a single Lightning port, and a button on the back allows you to enter Bluetooth pairing mode. The design is further highlighted by the use of magnets that keep the lid shut, providing a secure storage solution for the earbuds.
However, the comfort of the AirPods (2nd Generation) has been criticized. The earbuds are designed to sit outside the ear canal, which can lead to issues such as drop-outs and shifting positions. This is a particular concern for those who engage in physical activities while wearing the AirPods.
Connectivity and Features
Connecting the AirPods (2nd Generation) to an iOS device is straightforward. Simply tap “connect” on the card that appears on your device, and the AirPods will connect to every device associated with your iCloud account. The H1 chip, an upgrade from the previous W1 chip, allows you to use the “Hey Siri” command to activate the voice assistant hands-free. However, volume controls are absent, necessitating the use of Siri to manage volume levels.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is another area where the AirPods (2nd Generation) fall short. The earbuds target a somewhat bass-heavy response, but this may not be perceived by all users due to the lack of sound isolation or blocking capabilities. Outside noises can easily penetrate the earbuds, leading to a less-than-ideal listening experience.
Battery Life
Apple claims that the battery will last approximately 5 hours on a single charge. However, during testing, the AirPods lasted for 4 hours and 7 minutes of playback time using an iPhone X over the AAC codec. The H1 chip does offer about 21% longer battery life than the original version, but this improvement is relatively minor due to the small size of the power cell.
Alternatives
While the AirPods (2nd Generation) are popular, there are several alternatives available that may suit different needs and preferences. These include the Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Gen), Apple AirPods (3rd Generation), Apple AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd Generations), Beats Powerbeats Pro, Beats Fit Pro, Beats Studio Buds, Google Pixel Buds A-Series, Jabra Elite 7 Pro, Nothing Ear (stick), and Sony LinkBuds WF-L900. Each of these alternatives offers unique features, such as noise cancellation, better fit, or water resistance, that may make them a more suitable choice for certain users.
In conclusion, the Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) are a convenient and feature-rich pair of wireless earbuds, but they have notable drawbacks in terms of comfort, sound quality, and battery life. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, there may be better alternatives available.