Difference Between AirPods 1 And 2

Earlier on, most people used to rely on wired earphones whenever they wanted to listen to music from their Apple devices. However, this changed with the launch of AirPods. In fact, these accessories were a game-changer as far as listening to music is concerned. This is because they came with a wireless design. Since their launch in 2016, Apple product users were able to enjoy an intuitive experience whenever they wanted to listen to music on their Apple devices. In fact, these features made many people ditch the wired earphones and instead invested in AirPods 1.

However, in 2019, there was a need to update these Airpods. Apple announced that there would be the second generation of AirPods, commonly known as AirPods 2. Unlike its predecessor, AirPods 2 came with an H1 chip that makes it deliver an incredible performance. This and many other factors make most people appreciate the second generation of AirPods. Since most people usually confuse these accessories, we shall outline the main differences that set them apart for clarity purposes.

What is AirPods 1?

Like we mentioned above, AirPods 1 was the first generation AirPods ever made by Apple. They came into existence in 2016. These AirPods came with a plethora of features that made them great back then. To start with, they came with a custom-designed W1 chip that helps conserve the battery life of these accessories.

Besides this, it makes it easy for these accessories to pair with other devices. These accessories also have a signature EarPod design. However, these accessories have some protruding stems that stick out of the ear. As a result, users are able to enjoy a true wireless listening experience.

Apart from these features, these accessories come in a lightweight design. Therefore, it will be easy to carry them out there. All you need to do is to slip them into your pockets, and you will be good to go. Finally, these accessories allow you to call Siri up by just double-tapping either of these pods.

What is AirPods 2?

The AirPods mentioned above are the second generation of Airpods that came into existence in 2019. Like we mentioned, these AirPods were a game-changer as far as listening to music is concerned. This is because they came with a better H1 chip that enables it to deliver a superb performance than the old AirPods.

With the new chip, you can be sure that you will enjoy seamless connectivity whenever you want to connect these Airpods with your Apple device. This is because the updated H1 chip supports Bluetooth 5.0. Besides this, you will be able to call Siri anytime you, please. By just saying ‘Hey Siri’, you will be able to reach Siri support. Here, you will be able to use Siri to ask questions, make calls, switch songs, requests directions, and so on.

When it comes to switching devices, these AirPods do not disappoint as they are twice as fast as their predecessor. From your iPhone to your Apple TV, there are many devices that you can connect these AirPods with. You will also enjoy low latency and 50% more talk time when using these AirPods.

See More: Difference Between iPhone And Smartphone

Similarities Between AirPods 1 and AirPods 2

The AirPods mentioned above are identical in several ways. To start with, they usually come in the same design. For instance, these Airpods come in a wireless design and a classic EarPod design. From the outside, they have stem-like protrusions that stick out of the user’s ears.

Therefore, as far as their aesthetics is concerned, both AirPods have the same features. Besides having an identical design, they come in the same style and color. As far as their dimension is concerned, these AirPods are the same. Finally, both of them have the same weight.

The Main Differences Between AirPods 1 and AirPods 2

Although the above-mentioned Airpods have a number of similarities like mentioned above, there are several differences that set them apart. Here are a number of distinctive features that you should know about these two AirPods.

1. Processor

The processor that powers each of these AirPods is different. For instance, AirPods 2 are normally powered by a new and upgraded H1 chipset. This chipset is better than that of AirPods 1 as it can deliver incredible performance in terms of wireless connectivity. You can trust that you will enjoy a faster and more stable wireless connection anytime you connect these accessories to devices such as iPhones and iPads. This chip also allows you to connect to calls 1.5 faster than the old model.

On the other hand, AirPods 1 uses a W1 chip. With this chip, you will enjoy low latency, Siri support, and fast connectivity whenever you connect these AirPods to other devices. Therefore, the processor of AirPods 1 is better than that of AirPods 2.

2. Connectivity

You will note that AirPods 1 comes with a Bluetooth 4.2 feature that enables them to connect to a number of devices. However, these accessories are not fast in terms of connectivity like the AirPods 2.This is because AirPods 2 comes with Bluetooth 5.0, which makes them connect faster to other Apple devices.

3. How you can connect to Siri Support

When using AirPods 1, you have to double-tap them so as to call Siri and speak to the voice assistant. However, if you have AirPods 2, you can just say ‘Hey Siri,’ and you will be able to summon Siri and use it to control your AirPods experience. This is because AirPods 2 is voice-activated.

4. Performance

If you are a fan of gaming, AirPods 1 are not the best option for you. This is because they have a higher latency compared to AirPods 2. Compared to AirPods 1, the AirPods 2 have a 30% lower latency. This makes it ideal for gamers.

5. Battery life

Airpods 1 usually have a lower battery life compared to AirPods. This means that you might have to charge AirPods 1 every now and then so as to enjoy all the benefits that come with these accessories. However, the AirPods 2 can retain their charge for longer hours and therefore offer more convenience.

6. Talk time

When using AirPods 1, you can be sure that you will enjoy 2 hours of talk time. However, when using the newer models, you are bound to enjoy 3 hours of talk time.

7. Price

Once AirPods 1 was launched, they used to cost $159. Generally, this price was fixed. However, the price of AirPods 2 varies depending on whether you want the model that has a wireless charging case or not.

For instance, the model that comes with a wireless charging case costs $199. However, those with just a charging case cost $159. The wireless charging case for AirPods 1 costs $79 when you buy them separately. Therefore, for just an extra $40, you will enjoy more convenience as you will be able to charge your AirPods 2 in the same spot, and you are good to go.

How Can I Tell the Generation of My AirPods?

To determine the generation of your Airpods, you should check their model numbers first. For Airpods 1, their model numbers are A1523 or A1722. On the other hand, those of AirPods 2 are A2032 or A2031. You can readily find these numbers on the earbuds themselves or underneath the earpiece.

If you find this method difficult to use, you can use your iPhone to check these details. If you are using an iOS 14 device or a more recent one, you just need to open the setting and then choose the Bluetooth option. After that, tap the ‘i’ icon next to your AirPods. Under the ‘About’ section, you will be able to find the model number of your AirPods.

However, if you are using earlier versions of iOS, you just need to go to the Setting section of your phone and then select ‘General’ and then choose ‘About.’ Tap the name of the Airpods, and you will be able to see the model number on the next screen 

Final Thoughts

Like we had previously mentioned, AirPods 1 and AirPods 2 are the same in terms of design and aesthetics. However, there is a myriad of differences between these models. From their individual processors to their prices, these models differ in a number of ways. Note the differences mentioned above when buying either of these models today, and you will get the value for your hard-earned money.