AirPods Pro (1st Gen) Comparison & Value: Is It Still Worth It in Today's World?
When Apple first introduced the AirPods Pro in 2019, they redefined what truly wireless earbuds could be. With active noise cancellation (ANC), a comfortable fit, and seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem, they quickly became a gold standard. Fast forward to today, and the second-generation AirPods Pro has arrived, boasting significant upgrades. This naturally begs the question: for AirPods Pro (1st Gen) Comparison & Value, is the original model still worth considering, or should you only look at the latest version?
Let's dive deep into what made the original great, how it stacks up against its successor, and ultimately, help you decide if it still holds its own in a competitive market.
At a Glance: AirPods Pro (1st Gen) Today
- Still Great ANC: Offers effective noise cancellation for commutes and noisy environments.
- Solid Audio Quality: Delivers balanced sound, perfect for music, podcasts, and calls.
- Comfortable Fit: Comes with three silicone ear tip sizes (S, M, L) for a secure seal.
- Seamless Apple Integration: Instant pairing, automatic switching between devices, "Hey Siri."
- Decent Battery Life: Up to 4.5 hours listening with ANC, 24 hours total with the case.
- Value Play: Often available at a significant discount, making them an attractive option.
- Missing Latest Features: Lacks Adaptive Transparency, on-stem volume control, U1 chip for Precision Finding, and improved battery of Gen 2.
The Original Appeal: Why the AirPods Pro (1st Gen) Stood Out
When the first-generation AirPods Pro launched, they were revolutionary for Apple. Unlike the original AirPods, these brought a crucial feature: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Suddenly, you could silence the drone of an airplane engine, mute office chatter, or simply find peace in a bustling cafe, all from tiny earbuds.
Beyond ANC, the AirPods Pro offered a customizable fit thanks to silicone ear tips, which improved sound isolation and overall comfort. Spatial Audio, delivering an immersive, theater-like experience, was another standout feature that made media consumption incredibly engaging. The H1 chip inside ensured lightning-fast pairing, stable connectivity, and hands-free "Hey Siri" access, cementing their place as the ultimate companion for Apple device users. If you're looking for more details on what made the original so special, you can always Explore the AirPod Pro 1st generation in depth.
Head-to-Head: AirPods Pro (1st Gen) vs. AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)
The arrival of the second-generation AirPods Pro introduced a wave of enhancements. To truly assess the value of the original, we need to compare it directly to its upgraded sibling. Here’s a detailed breakdown of where each model shines and where the differences matter most.
The Brains Behind the Sound: H1 vs. H2 Chip
At the heart of any AirPods experience is its custom Apple chip. The first-generation AirPods Pro relies on the H1 chip. This chip was a marvel at the time, enabling real-time noise cancellation, efficient power management, and seamless device switching.
The second-generation, however, features the H2 chip. This isn't just a minor upgrade; it's a significant leap. The H2 chip powers more intelligent noise cancellation, improved three-dimensional sound, and smarter audio processing overall. Think of it as upgrading from a very capable processor to one that can handle more complex tasks with greater speed and efficiency. This foundational difference ripples through many of the subsequent features.
Silence, Amplified: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
This is often the primary reason people buy AirPods Pro. The first-generation model delivered excellent ANC, effectively dampening low-frequency sounds like engine hums and fan noise. It was, and still is, very good for daily commutes and creating a personal bubble.
With the H2 chip, the second-generation AirPods Pro takes ANC to another level. Apple claims it now cancels twice as much unwanted noise. This improvement is noticeable, especially in environments with a wider range of disruptive sounds. A new driver and improved acoustic algorithms contribute to this enhanced ability to reduce unwanted noise, making the world outside truly melt away more effectively.
Hearing the World (or Not): Transparency vs. Adaptive Transparency
Both generations feature a Transparency mode, which allows you to hear your surroundings without removing your earbuds. This is crucial for situational awareness, like hearing announcements at an airport or chatting with a colleague.
The game-changer with the second-generation AirPods Pro is Adaptive Transparency. Thanks to the H2 chip, this mode intelligently reduces loud noises around you (like sirens, power tools, or sudden claps) while still letting ambient sounds pass through. It operates at an incredible 48,000 times per second to minimize sudden spikes in sound volume. This means you can stay aware without being startled or overwhelmed by harsh sounds. Critically, Adaptive Transparency requires the H2 chip and will not be coming to the first-generation AirPods Pro, making this a significant differentiator.
Music to Your Ears: Audio Quality
The audio quality on the first-generation AirPods Pro is robust, offering clear highs, present mids, and a satisfying bass response. For most listeners, it provides a very enjoyable experience across various genres.
The second-generation models, equipped with new drivers and improved acoustic algorithms, offer an even richer audio experience. Expect richer bass and clearer audio across a wider range of frequencies. While the first-gen still sounds great, the second-gen offers a noticeable step up for audiophiles or those who prioritize nuanced sound.
Take Control: Physical Interactions & Volume
Both versions of AirPods Pro utilize Force Stems for controls. You squeeze the stem to:
- Play and pause music.
- Answer and end calls.
- Hold to switch between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency modes.
However, the second-generation AirPods Pro adds a highly requested feature: volume control directly on the stem. You can slide your finger up or down the Force Stem to adjust the volume independently of your iPhone or Apple Watch. This might seem like a small detail, but it’s a massive convenience, especially when your hands are full or your phone isn't easily accessible. The first-gen requires you to use your device or "Hey Siri" for volume changes.
Power Through Your Day: Battery Life
Battery life is always a critical factor for wireless earbuds.
- AirPods Pro (1st Gen): Offers up to 4.5 hours of listening time with a single charge (ANC on). The charging case provides an additional 19.5 hours, for a total of 24 hours of listening.
- AirPods Pro (2nd Gen): Significant improvement here, with up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge (ANC on). Even with Spatial Audio and Head Tracking enabled, it manages 5.5 hours. The case extends this even further, offering up to 30 hours of total listening time.
Both generations also boast quick charging: five minutes in the case gives you about an hour of listening. But for endurance, the second-gen clearly wins.
Staying Connected & Found: Bluetooth, U1 Chip & Find My
Connectivity and tracking capabilities also see meaningful upgrades:
- Bluetooth: The first-generation uses Bluetooth 5.0, which is reliable and efficient. The second-generation upgrades to Bluetooth 5.3, offering potentially better stability, efficiency, and future-proofing, though real-world differences might be subtle for most users.
- Find My & U1 Chip: Both generations can be added to the Find My app and tied to your Apple ID, allowing you to locate them if lost. However, only the second-generation models include Apple’s U1 chip, enabling Precision Finding. This technology works much like an AirTag, guiding you to your lost AirPods Pro with directional arrows and distance indicators on your iPhone.
- Case Speaker: To further assist with finding, the second-generation charging case includes a built-in speaker. This emits a surprisingly loud chime, making it far easier to locate a misplaced case, even if it's buried under couch cushions. The first-gen case has no speaker.
Charging Up: Versatility & Convenience
Both the first and second-generation AirPods Pro offer flexible charging options:
- Lightning Port: Standard wired charging.
- Qi-certified wireless charging: Drop the case on any compatible wireless pad.
- MagSafe charging: Snaps securely onto MagSafe chargers for optimal alignment.
The second-generation AirPods Pro adds another convenient option: support for Apple Watch chargers. Now, you can simply set your charging case on any Apple Watch charging puck, expanding your charging possibilities. This is a small but practical improvement for those with multiple Apple devices.
Fit & Finish: Design, Durability & Ear Tips
Physically, the earbuds themselves are almost indistinguishable between generations. They share the same size and shape (1.22 inches long, 0.86 inches wide, 0.94 inches deep), with only minor internal modifications, like the updated skin detection sensor on the Gen 2 which is more reliable at detecting ears versus pockets.
The charging cases are also very similar in dimensions (1.78 x 2.39 x 0.85 inches), though the second-gen case is slightly heavier (1.79g vs. 1.61g) due to added metal for the new lanyard anchor on the right side. Both maintain an IPX4 sweat and water resistance rating, meaning they can handle workouts and light rain, but not submersion.
A notable improvement for comfort and fit in the second-generation is the inclusion of an extra-small (XS) silicone ear tip, bringing the total sizes to four (XS, S, M, L). The first-generation only came with three sizes (S, M, L). This extra size can be a significant benefit for users with smaller ear canals, ensuring a better seal and improved sound and ANC performance.
Crystal Clear Conversations: Microphones
While the first-generation AirPods Pro provided decent call quality, the second-generation incorporates upgraded microphones. This, combined with improved algorithms powered by the H2 chip, results in more clarity during phone calls and recordings. If you frequently use your AirPods for calls in varying environments, the Gen 2 offers a noticeable edge.
The Price Tag Reality Check
Here's where the AirPods Pro (1st Gen) often shines today. While it launched at the same price point as the Gen 2, it's now frequently available at significant discounts. You can often find them new for well under their original retail price, and the secondhand market offers even steeper savings.
The second-generation model, being the latest and greatest, typically holds closer to its original launch price. This price differential is a crucial factor when evaluating value.
Who is the AirPods Pro (1st Gen) Still For? (Decision Criteria)
Considering the comparison, the first-generation AirPods Pro still has a place, especially for specific users and scenarios:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: If you want premium noise-cancelling earbuds within the Apple ecosystem but are working with a tighter budget, the discounted price of the Gen 1 is incredibly appealing.
- Existing Owners (Not Needing Every Latest Feature): If you already own the Gen 1 and are generally happy with its performance, the upgrade to Gen 2, while substantial, might not be absolutely essential for your use case. The ANC, sound quality, and integration are still excellent.
- Casual Listeners: For those who primarily use their earbuds for music during commutes, occasional calls, or listening to podcasts, the first-gen provides more than enough performance. You might not fully appreciate or utilize every nuanced improvement of the Gen 2.
- Not Prioritizing "Absolute Best" ANC/Transparency: While Gen 2's ANC is better, Gen 1's is still very effective. If "very good" is enough for your noisy environments, you save money.
- Don't Need On-Earbud Volume Control: If you're accustomed to adjusting volume via your phone or Apple Watch, or using "Hey Siri," the lack of on-stem volume control on the Gen 1 won't be a dealbreaker.
- Not Prone to Losing Items: If you rarely misplace your earbuds and don't see the value in Precision Finding or a case speaker, the U1 chip in Gen 2 won't add much to your experience.
When Might You Want to Upgrade (or Go for Gen 2)?
Conversely, there are clear reasons why the second-generation AirPods Pro is the superior choice for some:
- Prioritizing Best-in-Class ANC & Adaptive Transparency: If you frequently find yourself in very noisy environments or want the smartest transparency mode that handles sudden loud noises, the H2 chip's capabilities are unmatched.
- Need Volume Control on Earbuds: The ability to slide your finger on the stem for volume adjustment is a significant quality-of-life improvement for many.
- Enhanced Battery Life is Crucial: For long flights, extended work calls, or simply less frequent charging, the extra 1.5 hours per charge and 6 hours total from the case are a big plus.
- Value Precision Finding & Case Speaker: If you've lost your earbuds before or appreciate the peace of mind that comes with AirTag-like tracking and a loud locating chime, the U1 chip and case speaker are invaluable.
- Want the Absolute Latest Sound Quality: For audiophiles or those who want the richest bass and clearest audio across frequencies, the Gen 2 offers a noticeable upgrade.
- New Ear Tip Sizes for Better Fit: If you struggle with the fit of existing AirPods Pro sizes, the additional XS ear tip with the Gen 2 could be a game-changer for comfort and seal.
- Frequent Callers: The improved microphones on the Gen 2 will provide clearer communication, especially in challenging environments.
Addressing Common Questions
Let's clear up some common curiosities about the first-gen AirPods Pro.
Q: Can the first-generation AirPods Pro get Adaptive Transparency via a software update?
A: No. Adaptive Transparency relies heavily on the H2 chip's processing power. As such, it is a hardware-dependent feature and will not be coming to the first-generation AirPods Pro.
Q: Is the sound quality that different between Gen 1 and Gen 2?
A: While the second-gen offers richer bass and clearer audio across frequencies, the first-gen still provides excellent sound quality for most users. The difference is noticeable, but not so stark that the first-gen sounds "bad" by comparison. It's more of an incremental refinement.
Q: How long will Apple continue to support the first-generation AirPods Pro with software updates?
A: Apple typically supports its hardware for many years, often providing critical bug fixes and feature enhancements through iOS updates. While new AirPods-specific features might dwindle, general connectivity and stability updates are likely to continue for the foreseeable future, as long as the hardware runs compatible software.
Q: Are there any durability differences?
A: Both generations share the same IPX4 rating for sweat and water resistance. Neither is designed for submersion, but both can handle workouts and light rain. Physical design is largely similar, so general durability should be comparable.
The Verdict: Is the First-Gen AirPods Pro Still Worth It?
After a thorough AirPods Pro (1st Gen) Comparison & Value analysis, the answer is a resounding yes, the first-generation AirPods Pro is still absolutely worth it – for the right person and at the right price.
While the second-generation AirPods Pro offers a compelling package of improvements, including significantly better ANC, Adaptive Transparency, on-stem volume control, extended battery life, and the U1 chip for Precision Finding, these are often "nice-to-have" rather than "must-have" features for many users.
If you can find the first-generation AirPods Pro at a notable discount (and you often can), you're still getting an incredibly capable pair of noise-cancelling earbuds that integrate seamlessly with your Apple devices. Its ANC is still strong, audio quality is excellent, and comfort is top-notch.
Choose the first-generation AirPods Pro if: you're looking for excellent active noise cancellation and sound quality, value deep integration with Apple's ecosystem, and want to save some money. You'll still enjoy a premium audio experience without feeling like you've missed out on essentials.
Opt for the second-generation AirPods Pro if: you demand the absolute best in noise cancellation, desire the intelligence of Adaptive Transparency, need on-earbud volume control, prioritize the longest battery life, or want the peace of mind that comes with Precision Finding.
Ultimately, the first-gen AirPods Pro remains a fantastic product that offers tremendous value. It's a testament to Apple's original engineering that even with a superior successor, the predecessor continues to impress. Don't dismiss it; for many, it's still the smart buy.