First Impressions
I was eager to test the new Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with USB‑C after hearing about the upgraded active noise cancellation and the switch to a USB‑C charging port. The moment I slipped them in, the fit felt familiar – a snug, comfortable seal that stayed put during my morning jog and my work‑from‑home Zoom marathons.
Key Features
- Active Noise Cancellation is roughly twice as strong as the previous generation, which I noticed on my daily commute when the subway roar faded into a faint hum.
- Adaptive Audio constantly reads the ambient sound and tweaks the EQ, so music stays balanced whether I’m in a quiet office or a bustling café.
- Conversation Awareness automatically lowers media volume and amplifies nearby speech, letting me answer a quick question without pulling the buds out.
- Touch‑controlled volume swipe feels intuitive – a light swipe up or down on the stem changes the level without fiddling with my phone.
- The MagSafe charging case adds Precision Finding, a tiny built‑in speaker for alerts, and a lanyard loop for easy attachment to a bag.
- USB‑C connector means I can charge the case with the same cable I use for my iPhone, eliminating the need for a separate Lightning cable.
Pros
- Significant ANC improvement makes noisy environments much more tolerable.
- USB‑C charging is convenient and future‑proof.
- Adaptive Audio truly adapts; I noticed fewer abrupt volume changes.
- MagSafe case’s extra features feel premium and useful.
- Comfortable fit for long listening sessions without ear fatigue.
Cons
- Price remains at the premium end of the market.
- Touch controls can be triggered accidentally when I’m adjusting the fit.
- Battery life stays at about six hours of listening, unchanged from the previous model.
- The MagSafe case is bulkier than the standard case, adding a little extra weight.
Verdict
Overall, the 2nd‑gen AirPods Pro with USB‑C feel like a solid evolution rather than a revolution. If you already own Apple devices and value the stronger ANC, the convenience of USB‑C, and the extra goodies in the MagSafe case, they’re a worthwhile upgrade. Check the current price and decide if the added features justify the cost for you.