Today, Apple's top-rated earbuds are on sale with a fantastic deal. Amazon is currently selling the second-generation Apple AirPods Pro wireless noise-canceling earbuds for just $169.99, including shipping. This represents a 32% discount and is the best deal on AirPods we've seen this year. Interestingly, this price matches that of the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC, which typically retails for $70 less. Despite the price parity, the AirPods Pro stands out as the superior choice due to its enhanced sound quality and superior noise cancellation capabilities.
Apple AirPods Pro for $169.99
Apple AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C
$249.00 save 32% $169.99 at Amazon
The AirPods Pro is renowned as the best-sounding "truly wireless" earbuds for iPhone users, thanks to its passively isolating in-ear design, combined with excellent active noise cancellation, low-distortion driver and amplifier, and the advanced Apple H2 chip. It also features innovative functionalities like Adaptive Transparency Mode, which allows you to stay aware of your surroundings without removing your earbuds, and Conversation Mode, which automatically enhances the voices of people you're talking to. The second-generation AirPods Pro introduces a more universal USB Type-C port, replacing the Lightning port, and includes a MagSafe charging case as standard.
Should you get the AirPods Pro over AirPods 4 with ANC?
The AirPods Pro is considered a superior earbud, which justifies its usual $70 higher price tag compared to the AirPods 4 with ANC. Both models offer active noise cancellation, but the AirPods Pro delivers better sound quality and more effective noise cancellation due to its design. The AirPods 4 ANC features an open-ear style with non-adjustable tips, designed to rest just outside the ear. While this may be more comfortable, it results in sound leakage and increased ambient noise intrusion.
In contrast, the AirPods Pro employs an in-ear design that fits snugly inside the ear canal, creating a seal that passively isolates it from external noise. Adjustable tips are provided to ensure a proper fit for various ear sizes, which is crucial for optimal performance. At this price point, the only reason to opt for the AirPods 4 ANC would be a preference for the less intrusive nature of open-ear earbuds.
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