The best AirPods for 2024

Apple has revolutionized the wireless headphone market since the introduction of the AirPods in 2016. While it's not mandatory to have a pair of AirPods to enjoy wireless audio on devices like the iPhone, iPad, or Mac, these headphones offer unique integrations with other Apple products. After popularizing truly wireless headphones with its original model, the company has diversified its range, including models with noise cancellation and over-ear headphones.

The Essentials of AirPods

When considering the purchase of AirPods, it's important to highlight several features of the different models. First, the standard AirPods have an open design that allows some ambient noise to enter, while the AirPods Pro feature silicone tips that completely isolate external sound, enabling more efficient noise cancellation and hearing tests. On the other hand, the AirPods Max are the only over-ear headphones offered by Apple, unlike the Beats lineup.

All models share characteristics that have come to define the AirPods experience. For example, the automatic switching feature between Apple devices synced with an iCloud account allows the headphones to connect automatically to an iPhone during a call, even if music was playing on a MacBook. Additionally, they offer hands-free access to Siri and Personalized Spatial Audio that incorporates dynamic head tracking.

AirPods Pro 2: The Best Choice

The AirPods Pro 2 are considered the best option within the AirPods line, as they incorporate all the advanced audio technologies provided by Apple. Equipped with the H2 chip, these headphones offer features like Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation, Personalized Volume, and the aforementioned Spatial Audio. The active noise cancellation in this model is substantially superior to previous versions and allows for sound transparency capabilities that make them ideal for calls.

Furthermore, the AirPods Pro 2 come with built-in volume controls, which are not present in other AirPods models. Their case supports wireless charging and is notable for offering clinically valid hearing tests, transforming into an assistive listening device in case of mild to moderate hearing loss.

AirPods 4: The Most Affordable Option

The newly updated AirPods 4 in 2024 offer an accessible proposal with important features like active noise cancellation for the first time in an open-design headphone model. Although they are more affordable, they still use the H2 chip and offer features like Voice Isolation and Spatial Audio. However, they lack certain advanced tools found in higher-priced models.

AirPods Max: Over-Ear Headphones

If you prefer over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max are the only option available. Launched in 2020 and recently updated in design, these headphones are heavier and use the H1 chip, which has limitations compared to the H2. While they provide good noise cancellation capabilities and a very natural transparency mode, they do not have access to the more advanced features found in other models.

With a focus on comfort and audio quality, the AirPods Max remain a solid choice, albeit somewhat outdated in terms of technology, which may affect their appeal to audiophiles.

Other Alternatives

The AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation are a more expensive version that introduces its first model with this functionality, although it does not have the same level of effectiveness compared to the AirPods Pro 2. The choice between these models will depend on the specific needs of each user, whether it's better sound isolation or greater comfort for daily use.