Best AirPods to buy: What’s available now and what’s coming next
As of mid-2025, Apple’s AirPods lineup includes the AirPods 4 (with and without Active Noise Cancellation), AirPods Pro 2, and the AirPods Max.
While the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Max are still strong contenders, Apple is expected to introduce the AirPods Pro 3 later this year, potentially bringing new health and AI-driven features.
Meanwhile, the AirPods Max remain largely unchanged since their 2024 USB-C refresh, with a true second-generation model not expected until 2027.
But which model is the right pick for you?
The best AirPods at a glance:
- Apple AirPods Pro 2: Best overall
- Apple AirPods 4: Best option for most
- Apple AirPods Max: Best for audiophiles
Also read:
Apple AirPods Pro 2
Best overall
Make sure you check out our article about how to spot fake AirPods Pro.
AirPods Pro 2 earbuds | Image by PhoneArena.
The AirPods Pro 2 are arguably the best earbuds recommendation for iPhone users. They come with amazing sound that is clean and wide, allowing for better separation of vocals and instruments, and there there is a pinch of bass sprinkled. What makes them truly special, however, is their superb active noise cancellation, which is probably the best we have tested so far on a pair of earbuds.
One of the biggest upgrades we noticed in our review is without a doubt the option to adjust your volume with just your touch. This was a feature that was painfully lacking from the previous generation, and in AirPods in general, so we are happy it's finally here with the 2nd generation of the AirPods Pro.
The case of the AirPods Pro 2 has also been upgraded to now feature a metal lanyard loop and its own speaker that can alert you when the battery is low, or help you find the case via the Find My app. Additionally, the case can now magnetically snap to MagSafe chargers, just like every iPhone since 2020.
The AirPods Pro 2 come in at the same price as their predecessor, which is $249. Obviously, these are no cheap earbuds, but it would be difficult to find a better pair for this price point. The seamless integration with other Apple products alongside the really good audio quality and myriad of useful features justify each dollar in that price tag in our opinion.
Read More: Apple AirPods Pro 2 review
Apple AirPods 4 ANC
The go-to AirPods for most
AirPods 4 earbuds | Image by PhoneArena.
The AirPods 4 (ANC) are a comfortable, non-in-ear alternative in the Apple lineup, priced at $179. They offer good sound quality with solid bass and decent Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for low-frequency sounds, though they were less effective on higher frequencies compared to AirPods Pro in our experience.
The adaptive EQ and Spatial Audio add an immersive experience, and the compact case now supports USB-C and wireless charging. Perfect for Apple ecosystem users seeking casual listening without the in-ear feel, though not ideal for audiophiles or heavy ANC needs.
Apple also sells a version of the AirPods 4 without active noise cancellation, which cost $129. Quite inexpensive, and still with all the other benefits of the new generation and a great way to save some cash if you don't like or need ANC.
Read More:Apple AirPods Pro 4 ANC review
Apple AirPods Max
Best for audiophiles
AirPods Max headphones | Image by PhoneArena.
When Apple first announced the AirPods Max there were riots on the streets. People dug up their pitchforks, lit up the torches, and went berserk. Joks aside, the $550 price tag that Apple slapped on the AirPods Max was a bit of a worry.
Fortunately, after the reviews started to come in, people realized that there’s substance behind the high asking price. For starters, the design and build quality of the AirPods Max is amazing. They are elegant, clean, simplistic — very, very Apple-looking all around. These headphones are also made of metal, and while a bit on the heavy side because of that fact, they’re very comfortable.
Fortunately, after the reviews started to come in, people realized that there’s substance behind the high asking price. For starters, the design and build quality of the AirPods Max is amazing. They are elegant, clean, simplistic — very, very Apple-looking all around. These headphones are also made of metal, and while a bit on the heavy side because of that fact, they’re very comfortable.
The AirPods Max offer a truly pristine, detailed listening experience, even after so many years. Every instrument, subtle reverb, delicate pluck, and even minor production imperfections come through with clarity, allowing you to appreciate the music in all its nuanced layers—perfect for discerning ears that love those subtle details.
The battery life is decent maxing out at around 18-20 hours, and you also get other bells and whistles such as Spatial Audio, easy switching between paired devices, a magnetic carrying case, and more. Whether or not all these perks justify the $550 price in 2024 is up to you to decide. Our take is that they still are.
Despite the fact that the AirPods Max are still pretty awesome, we were disappointed to see only some new colors and USB-C as upgrades for 2024. Everyone expected Apple to announce the second generation of its most premium headphones, but we are still waiting for that to happen.
What’s Next for AirPods in 2025?
AirPods Pro 3
Anticipated to launch in late 2025, the AirPods Pro 3 may introduce health-focused features like heart rate and temperature monitoring, as well as on-device live translation capabilities.
AirPods Max 2
The AirPods Max 2 are not expected until 2027, with potential improvements including a lighter design and enhanced features.
Can AirPods work with Android devices?
Yes, AirPods can be used with Android devices for basic audio playback and calls. However, advanced features like Siri integration, automatic device switching, and Spatial Audio are exclusive to Apple devices. Even things as simple as the status indicator for the headphone's battery life don't work.
You are better off getting a different pair of earbuds/headphones for your Android device, although this could change in the future thanks to new regulations from organizations like the EU.
Which AirPods offer the best noise-canceling?
Both the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Max provide excellent active noise cancellation. The AirPods Max, with their over-ear design, offer a more immersive experience, but the AirPods Pro 2 are more compact and portable.
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