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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) vs Powerbeats Pro 2: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) - Great overall at around $125.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C)
Sound8.5
Noise cancelling9.0
Battery7.5
Calls8.0
Value7.5
Powerbeats Pro 2
Sound8.0
Noise cancelling7.5
Battery8.0
Calls7.0
Value7.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) vs Powerbeats Pro 2
SpecApple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C)Powerbeats Pro 2
TypeTrue WirelessTrue Wireless
Price (USD)$120$250
HearWiki score84 / 100 · Great78 / 100 · Great
Released20222019
Audio
Driverdynamicdynamic
Driver size11 mm9.5 mm
Drivers per side11
Frequency response20 Hz - 20 kHz20 Hz - 20 kHz
Impedance16 Ω-
Sensitivity100 dB/mW-
Wireless
Bluetooth5.35.3
CodecsSBC, AACSBC, AAC
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Battery
Battery life-10 h
Battery life (ANC on)-10 h
Battery incl. case30 h45 h
Full charge time-120 min
Quick charge-5 min = 1.5 h
Wireless chargingYesYes
Features
Active noise cancellingYesYes
ANC typeadaptiveadaptive
Transparency modeYesYes
Companion appYesYes
Custom EQNo-
Wear detectionYesYes
Controlsbothboth
Voice assistantSiriSiri
Design
Weight5.3 g-
Case weight50.8 g69 g
Water resistanceIP54IPX4
FoldableNo-
Detachable cableNo-
USB-CYesYes

What reviewers said

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C)

These wireless earbuds deliver strong active noise cancellation and a natural-sounding transparency mode, making them a solid pick for Apple users. With around 6 hours of playback per charge and a case that boosts total listening time to 30 hours, they offer dependable daily use. The IP54 rating adds some protection against sweat and splashes, while Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a stable connection for most devices.

  • Pro:Excellent active noise cancellation
  • Pro:Natural transparency mode for ambient awareness
  • Pro:Decent battery life with case
  • Con:No multipoint connection
  • Con:Limited to AAC codec
  • Con:No custom EQ in app

Powerbeats Pro 2

These workout-focused wireless earbuds bring active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and heart-rate tracking to a lighter, more compact design. They offer a secure fit, strong sound, and long battery life, though the smart features come at a premium price. The included charging case supports wireless charging and USB-C for added convenience.

  • Pro:Secure, comfortable fit for workouts
  • Pro:Effective active noise cancellation and transparency mode
  • Pro:Long battery life with charging case
  • Con:Heart-rate tracking has limited usability
  • Con:Premium price point
  • Con:Battery life may fall short of official claims

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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