Apple AirPods is the most ubiquitous name in wireless audio—but not all AirPods are created equal. Apple currently sells four models of AirPods, which is actually the company’s overarching brand name for all of its wireless headphones and earbuds. Which means it can get confusing: If someone in your life asks for “AirPods” as a gift, which should you buy?
Three of the four models are in-ear wireless earbuds, while the fourth is an over-the-ear pair of headphones. Each has its particular set of features, pros and cons, and, of course, price point. Let’s take a look at all the AirPods Apple currently sells, and how much each costs.
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Pick up any of the AirPods listed here on Amazon:
AirPods (2nd generation)
The 2nd generation AirPods are identical to the original AirPods in look and shape, so if you prefer that long-stem, this is the pair for you. This model also has an H1 chip, so you get classic features like automatic switching between Apple devices and higher sound quality. However, compared to the Pros or the AirPod 3, these are a little simple, which is why it’s the most affordable pair of AirPods at the moment. The AirPods (2nd generation) costs $129, currently on sale for $99.
AirPods (3rd generation)
The third-generation AirPods are the best bet for anyone who want some of the newest AirPods tech Apple has to offer, but doesn’t like the silicone tips of the Pros. These one-size-fits-all AirPods are sweat and water resistant, but not dust resistant. You get an H1 chip and spatial audio, but miss out on active noise cancellation and a few other AirPods Pro features. The AirPods (3rd generation) is priced at $169, but are currently $139.99.
AirPods Pro (2nd generation)
The second-generation AirPods is the best pair of in-ear wireless headphones that Apple makes right now. This model has an H2 chip and supports cool features like Conversation Awareness, Adaptive Audio, and Personalized Volume. You also get the benefit of spatial audio and active noise cancellation, which can be your best friend at concerts and other loud environments, plus you can adjust the volume level from the stem. The AirPods Pro ships with a case that supports wireless charging, and is also dust, sweat, and water resistant. Plus, there are interchangeable silicone tips, so you can find the right fit for your ear shape. All of these features are yours for $249, but you can find them on sale for $199.99 currently.
AirPods Max
The AirPods Max is the only over-ear headphone in Apple’s AirPods lineup. It’s also the most expensive AirPods model at $549 (but you can find them for as low as $479). Unfortunately, the AirPods Max hasn’t been updated in a while, and still has the older H1 chip, as opposed to the H2 in the AirPods Pro. It misses out on Adaptive Audio and other newer features, but you do get active noise cancellation and spatial audio. It offers a similar level of sound quality as the AirPods Pro 2, but will appeal to those who prefer an over-ear design over earbuds.
