AirPods

AirPods are True Wireless Earbuds created by Apple that connect to other Apple devices like iPhones, iPads and MacBooks using Bluetooth. When AirPods are taken out of their case, they turn on and connect to the device they're paired with or signed into its identified iCloud account. Inside each AirPod is a special wireless chip called the Apple H1 (or Apple W1 for older models), allowing fast AirPod pairing with Apple devices.

The H1 chip also enables useful features like hands-free "Hey Siri" access and seamless switching between different Apple products. Each AirPod has two beam-forming microphones that filter out background noise and focus on the caller's voice when making calls or talking to Siri. AirPods also contain optical sensors and motion accelerometers that can detect when they're in ears versus in the charging case, allowing them to automatically play and pause music or Audio accordingly.

AirPods battery life depends on the model, but typically can last for around 5 hours of listening time or 3 hours of talk time on one charge. The charging case provides over 24 hours of additional battery life, and depending on the model can be charged either wirelessly or using a cable.

AirPods are not waterproof. While they have some minor water resistance, they are not designed to be submerged in water or worn in very rainy conditions. Specifically AirPods have an IPX4 water resistance rating under IEC standard 60529 meaning they are splash resistant but not fully waterproof. An IPX4 rating indicates the AirPods can withstand a sustained spray of water from any direction with limited ingress permitted.

However the charging case itself is not water resistant at all. Exposing the case to water, even splashes could damage the electronics inside and the AirPods as well while charging. It’s important not to confuse water resistance with waterproof, as waterproof devices are designed to be submerged at certain depths for various periods of time without damage. Water resistant devices can handle minor splashes but cannot be fully submerged.

While wearing AirPods in the rain for short periods is generally fine, it’s best not to wear them for activities where they will be immersed in water. That means no swimming, showering, baths or water sports while wearing AirPods. The water pressure in those situations likely goes beyond the IPX4 splash protection level.

AirPods can connect to a variety of Apple devices that support Bluetooth connections, including iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple Watch, Apple TV, MacBooks and iMacs. Any Apple device released in the last few years running fairly modern iOS, iPadOS or macOS software will likely support connecting to AirPods. This includes iPhones running at least iOS 10, Apple Watches running at least watchOS 3 and Macs running at least macOS Sierra or later.

The latest H1 chip equipped AirPods can rapidly switch connections between all these devices automatically, for example answering a phone call from an iPhone on AirPods while watching a video on an iPad then seamlessly switching back. AirPods connect to the most recently used Apple device by default whenever they're taken out of their case, but connections can also be changed manually in Bluetooth settings.

While AirPods are designed for Apple ecosystems, they can also connect to non-Apple devices like Android Phones, Windows PCs and more that support Bluetooth connections for basic wireless listening purposes. However certain convenient features like automatic pairing, hands free Siri access and automatic ear detection may be limited or unavailable on non-Apple devices.

The "best" AirPods really depend on your specific needs and budget, but here is a quick overview of the current AirPod models available. The AirPods Pro 2nd Gen are the best overall AirPods available for most people. They offer excellent sound quality with customizable Spatial Audio and adaptive EQ, along with Active Noise Cancellation to block out ambient sounds. New touch controls on the stem, an improved 6 hours battery life with 30 hours total including the case and a water resistant design round out the models features.

AirPods Max are over ear Wireless Headphones with exceptional sound quality, Active Noise Cancellation and premium design using high quality materials like stainless steel and a comfortable knit mesh canopy. They are great for critical listening and maximum battery life but much more expensive and heavy compared to typical True Wireless Earbud AirPods. 3rd Gen AirPods are an incremental update over previous basic AirPods but still a good budget option without bells and whistles.

1st Gen AirPods Pros as the originals are still a capable pair of earbuds with very good performance all around. While they lack some new features of the 2nd gen they can be found for lower prices. AirPods 2nd Gen are the older model of regular AirPods without silicone tips or noise cancellation. They are also still solid for basic use and lower budgets but sound quality and battery life leave something to be desired.