Which AirPods to choose in 2026?
This guide is designed to help you navigate the various models of AirPods headphones available – each with its unique set of features and price points. From the budget-friendly AirPods (4th generation) to the high-end AirPods Max 2, we’ll explore which model could be the best fit for you, based on your preferences and usage scenarios. We'll provide insights into the technical specifications, user experiences, and practical considerations to assist you in making an informed decision. So, whether you're a first-time buyer or considering an upgrade, read on to find the perfect pair of AirPods that aligns with your audio aspirations and lifestyle needs.
AirPods Pro (3rd Generation)
Released: September 2025
Apple introduced the AirPods Pro 3 in September 2025, taking personal audio to the next level. These in-ear headphones feature a redesigned architecture with the world’s best Active Noise Cancellation, removing up to 2x more noise than AirPods Pro 2 and 4x more than the original AirPods Pro. The updated design ensures improved in-ear stability, making them perfect for workouts, commutes, or all-day use.
For the first time, AirPods include heart rate sensing, integrated with the Fitness app on iPhone. Users can track over 50 workout types, measure calories burned, and even receive real-time insights with Apple Intelligence. AirPods Pro 3 also introduce Live Translation, allowing real-time face-to-face conversations across multiple languages (beta).
With a new multiport acoustic architecture, AirPods Pro 3 deliver deeper bass, richer vocals, and an expanded soundstage. Advanced hearing health tools like automatic Conversation Boost and Hearing Test provide clinical-grade audio support. Battery life has also been extended, offering up to 8 hours with ANC and up to 10 hours in Transparency mode.
Key Features: Best-in-class ANC, heart rate sensor, Live Translation (beta), foam-infused tips in 5 sizes, IP57 resistance, extended battery life.
Considerations: Premium pricing. Live Translation does not yet support Finnish or Swedish.
Price: 249 €
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AirPods (4th Generation)
Released: September 2024
AirPods 4 feature a new design and improved sound over the previous generation. With the H2 chip, AirPods 4 unlock intelligent audio experiences like voice isolation and Siri interactions. The case is 10% smaller and features USB-C for charging. The AirPods battery lasts about 5 hours, while the case gives you up to 30 hours of battery life. The headphones are IP54 certified, meaning they are dust, sweat and water resistant. This version is great if you want a simple but good pair of headphones that work well with your Apple device.
Key Features: H2 chip, USB-C, great battery life, most affordable AirPods
Considerations: Can charge only with the cable.
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AirPods (4th Generation) with ANC
Released: September 2024
This model does everything the standard AirPods 4 do, but adds Active Noise Cancellation. It reduces background noise such as city traffic and airplane engines. There is a Transparency mode, Adaptive Audio that dynamically mixes modes based on your environment, and Conversation Awareness that lowers volume when you start talking. The case offers Qi wireless charging and a speaker for the “Find My” app. This model is great if you want noise cancellation without the "plugged" feeling of in-ear tips.
Key Features: H2 chip, USB-C, Active Noise Cancellation, wireless charging
Considerations: Due to the open-ear form-factor, noise blocking is not as total as the Pro models.
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AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
Updated in 2024 with new health features.
AirPods Pro 2nd Gen remain a strong choice, especially after the 2024 update which introduced clinical-grade hearing test and hearing aid features. Featuring Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Audio, and Transparency mode, they provide 6 hours of battery life on a single charge. The H2 chip ensures excellent audio and connectivity. These are the best value high-end in-ear AirPods available today, coming with four sizes of silicone tips for a perfect fit.
Key Features: Active Noise Cancellation, Hearing Test feature, sweat and water resistance, MagSafe USB-C case.
Considerations: AirPods Pro 3 offer even better noise cancellation and new heart rate tracking.
AirPods Max (1st Generation)
Updated in September 2024 (USB-C).
The original AirPods Max remain in the lineup, offering outstanding sound clarity and iconic design. Following the 2024 update, they now feature a USB-C port and new color options. With H1-chip powered audio and memory foam cushions, they provide a premium and comfortable over-ear experience. They are a great choice if you want the Apple over-ear aesthetic at a more accessible price point than the newest generation.
Key Features: Outstanding sound clarity, Spatial Audio, USB-C, premium build.
Considerations: Uses the H1 chip, so it lacks newer features like Adaptive Audio or Conversation Awareness.
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AirPods Max (2nd Generation)
Released: March 2026 • Pre-order from March 25th
AirPods Max 2 set a new standard for premium audio with the power of the H2 chip. This new processor enables up to 1.5x more effective noise cancellation and brings Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness to the Max line for the first time. The headphones support Lossless audio via USB-C and include real-time translation powered by Apple Intelligence. With 20 hours of battery life and top-tier features, AirPods Max 2 are the definitive choice for those who demand the absolute best technology.
Key Features: H2 chip, 1.5x better ANC, Adaptive Audio, Live Translation, USB-C Lossless support.
Considerations: Apple’s most expensive model; weight makes them less suitable for sports.
Price: 579 €
Pre-order nowHow do AirPods compare?
| Features | AirPods 4th Gen | AirPods 4th Gen ANC | AirPods Pro 3rd Gen | AirPods Max 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery life | 5 hours | 5 hours | 8 hours | 20 hours |
| Form factor | Earbud | Earbud | In-ear | Over-ear |
| Noice Cancelation | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive Audio | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Transparency mode | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Conversation Awareness | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Spatial Audio | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Hearing Test/Aid | No | No | Yes | No |
| Processor | H2 | H2 | H2 | H2 |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C, Qi charger | USB-C, MagSafe | USB-C |
| Water resistance | Yes, IP54 | Yes, IP54 | Yes, IP57 | No |
To summarize, we would say:
- If you are on a budget and need portable headphones – AirPods 4.
- If you want flagship in-ear features and health tracking – AirPods Pro 3.
- If you want over-ear luxury at a great value – AirPods Max (1st Generation).
- If you want the absolute best noise cancellation and latest smart features – AirPods Max 2.
These models are no longer available:
AirPods (2nd Generation)
Discontinued September 2024
The original AirPods design with the H1 processor. Reliable for basics but lacked noise cancellation and water resistance.
AirPods (3rd Generation)
Discontinued September 2024
Introduced Spatial Audio to the standard line. Replaced by AirPods 4, which offer significantly better processing and ANC options.
Compatibility
AirPods are fabulous headphones if you are in the Apple ecosystem. They provide additional features like Spatial Audio, which work fully only with Apple products. If you use other devices, many features might not work, in which case we recommend checking out the Beats headphones range for broader compatibility.
