Apple AirPods 2 vs. AirPods 1: what's different between the two true wireless earbud sets?

Apple AirPods 2 vs. AirPods 1: specs comparison 

Let's take a quick look at how the two sets of true wireless earbuds compare in dry specs before we go into detail.

Apple AirPods 2 vs. AirPods 1: look exactly the same

If you are considering upgrading to the new earbuds to proudly showcase them to the world around as the new adapter — the bad news is that the world will not know.

Looks-wise, the AirPods 2 and the AirPods 1 look exactly the same. You get the same true wireless experience with no cables in the way. Each AirPod still measures 0.65 x 0.71 x 1.59 inches and weighs about 4 grams. You get the same signature white color, same speaker location on the ear pieces, etc. In short, nobody will ever know if you are wearing the AirPods 2 or the AirPods.

There is a difference in the looks of the charging case, however. The charging case that came with the original AirPods had its charging indicator located on the inside of the case, right in between the two earbuds.

The new charging case released alongside the AirPods 2 has the LED charging indicator located on the outside of the case in the form of a single dot that will light up as the earbuds are being charged. We have seen this earlier on some of the AirPods replicas and can see how this type of charging case design can be more convenient in use.

Apple AirPods 2 vs. AirPods 1: wireless charging case

The main upgrade featured on the AirPods 2 actually comes separately from the earbuds themselves. The new Airpods 2 comes with a new charging case that is compatible with Qi wireless charging mats. This makes your experience with the AirPods 2 entirely wireless.

If you buy the AirPods 2 in the new charging case, you will need to pay $199. However, the new charging case is also sold separately for $79.

Another option is to buy the new Airpods 2 with the old charging case. In this case, you will be paying $159.

The funny thing is that you can also use the new charging case with the original AirPods. This means that if all you are really excited about with the AirPods 2 is the option for wireless charging, you can simply purchase the new wireless charging case and keep on using your old AirPods with the new wireless charging upgrade.

Apple AirPods 2 vs. AirPods 1: H1 chip, faster communication and new Siri option

There New AirPods 2 have received an upgraded H1 chip while the original AirPods run on the W1 chip. The new H1 chip has brought several improvements with it.

First, you get faster connection times. Switching between connected devices (iPhone, iPad, etc.) is now two times faster than with the AirPods. For phone calls, it's 1.5 times faster.

Second, the new earbuds feature lower latency when it comes to gaming — according to Apple, gaming latency is 30% lower.

Third, the company promises a better audio experience with the AirPods 2 thanks to the above mentioned H1 audio chip.

Fourth, there is an update in the use of Siri. With the original AirPods, you had to tap one of the earbuds to activate the assistant. With the new AirPods 2, you can summon Siri by voice: simply say “Hey Siri” and the virtual assistant will be at your service. You will also have the option of making calls or adjusting sound volume with a Siri command.

Finally, the AirPods 2 also come with a more stable wireless connection.

Apple AirPods 2 vs. AirPods 1: the verdict

So, should you upgrade to the new AirPods 2?

The truth is, if you are currently using the original AirPods 1, there is probably no need to switch to the AirPods 2. The main improvement on the AirPods 2 is the wireless charging case. And, as we know, we can get the new case separately and use it with the older AirPods version.

As for the upgrade in the new earbuds themselves, we haven't been able to spot any major improvements that would justify getting the AirPods 2 if you have already invested in the AirPods.