Since their debut in 2017, Apple‘s AirPods have enjoyed significant success, with increasing revenues year after year. Apple has continued to refresh its AirPods lineup, introducing new models and updates, with one of the key distinctions being their charging cases. Let’s delve into the differences among these cases.
AirPods Pro Case
The AirPods Pro case stands apart from the original version with its wider and shorter design, offering enhanced versatility and additional protection. While the design remains the iconic white, it has seen some significant changes.
There are currently two versions of AirPods Pro cases available. The original models come with a Lightning connection, while a USB-C version was introduced in September 2023 to meet European Union standards. Both versions support wireless charging through Qi technology.
AirPods 3
The AirPods 3 find themselves in a middle ground, offering improvements over the second generation but not reaching the level of Apple’s professional models. They sport a design similar to the Pro version but lack noise cancellation.
The AirPods 3 boast water and sweat resistance, excellent sound quality, and touch controls on each earbud. These controls allow you to pause music, change tracks, and activate various functions with simple gestures.
Regarding the charging case, there are currently two variants of AirPods 3. The more expensive version includes MagSafe charging capability, while the less expensive version relies on a Lightning connection. Apple plans to transition away from Lightning by the end of 2024.
Original AirPods
The original AirPods represented a wireless revolution at their launch, offering sound quality similar to EarPods but without the constraints of cables. Today, the first-generation AirPods have been discontinued, making the second generation the default choice.
The main difference between the two versions was the introduction of wireless charging for the second generation, as the original model could only be charged via the Lightning connector. Both models featured “Hey Siri” voice activation, detection sensors, and touch controls thanks to the H1 chip.
Another notable change was the transition from the W1 chip to the H1 chip in the second generation, which improved connectivity, energy efficiency, and latency.
Charging Times for All AirPods
It’s worth noting that while Apple has made several improvements to its AirPods lineup, the charging times have remained relatively consistent. Here’s how long each AirPods model takes to charge:
- AirPods (1st gen.): 15 minutes of charging provides up to 3 hours of playback.
- AirPods (2nd gen.): 15 minutes of charging provides up to 3 hours of playback.
- AirPods 3 (both Lightning and MagSafe versions): 15 minutes of charging offers up to 3 hours of playback.
- AirPods Pro (both Lightning and USB-C versions): 15 minutes of charging offers up to 3 hours of playback.
- AirPods Max: 15 minutes of charging provides up to 4.5 hours of playback.
With the exception of AirPods Max, all the other models share the same charging speed.
Differences in AirPods Charging Cases
In September 2023, Apple introduced an update to the second-generation AirPods Pro, which brought a USB-C connection to the charging case. Initially, this new generation could only be obtained by purchasing the entire product. However, Apple has now made it possible to purchase the charging case separately. This case, priced at 109 euros, will be available starting December 27. Please note that it is only compatible with the second-generation AirPods Pro, not with other models or the first generation.
This accessory features a U1 Chip, allowing for precise tracking and the ability to play a sound from its built-in speaker to help locate it using the Find My app. It also comes with an IP54 rating, offering excellent resistance to dust, water, and sweat.
Similar to the previous generation, this case includes a hook for attaching a strap, allowing you to keep your case readily accessible on a bag or backpack.