Why You Can Trust CNET Best Apple AirPods for 2023: Top Picks Across Generations
You'll be hard-pressed to find better earbuds for your Apple device than some AirPods.
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It's hard to escape if you're already in the Apple ecosystem. But there's little reason to. Apple ensures almost every device you'd need is compatible with its family of products. If you need a pair of earbuds to use with your iPhone or MacBook, you'll probably want to grab a pair of AirPods. They seamlessly connect between Apple devices and benefit from the company's high-quality standards. However, there are several models out there, so you may be unsure which is right for you. We tested out multiple models and rounded up a list to help you find the best AirPods.
There's a reason AirPods always top the best headphones lists for the year. However, the entire shopping process has become a lot more complicated now that Apple's released multiple generations and versions of its AirPods. These variations include standard AirPods, AirPods Pro and AirPods Max. Confused? Don't be: We'll break down the differences and benefits of each.
Note, too, that we're pulling the Beats Fit Pro into this conversation -- they're not "AirPods," but that model of the Apple-owned brand is worth considering if you're looking for AirPods in the $150 to $200 range.
Great sound quality, a variety of ear tips for a snug fit, noise-canceling technology and extended battery life (thanks to a wireless charging case) undoubtedly contribute to AirPods' perpetual appeal.
Choosing the best AirPods often involves striking a balance between function and price, so we've mapped out the most current pricing for you as well, so you can grab accessories made to pair with your Apple device. These are the best AirPods deals you can find this year.
Read more: Best True-Wireless Earbuds for 2023
AirPods price comparison
| Model | Apple Store price | Best price right now | Best all-time price |
|---|---|---|---|
| AirPods 2 | $129 | $99 | $90 |
| AirPods Pro 2 | $249 | $235 | $199 |
| AirPods 3 | $179 | $179 | $150 |
| Beats Fit Pro | $200 | $160 | $160 |
| AirPods Max | $549 | $480 | $395 |
We update this story frequently to reflect current pricing.
Best AirPods in 2023
The new AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are powered by Apple's new H2 chip, which delivers more processing power while being more energy efficient, according to Apple. The new chip, combined with new low-distortion drivers, allows for improved sound that offers better clarity and depth. The noise canceling is also improved -- Apple says the new AirPods have "double" the noise canceling of the original AirPods Pro.
Additionally, the new AirPods add an extra hour of battery life, up from five to six hours with noise canceling on. Plus, a speaker in the case that emits a sound that helps locate your buds via Find My should they decide to hide from you.
Note that while Apple has discontinued the original AirPods Pro, they'll remain on sale at discounted prices until supplies are exhausted. However, most people should get this newer model if they can afford it.
Made by Apple, the newest Beats headphones aren't AirPods, but -- except for lacking a case with wireless charging and MagSafe compatibility -- they pretty much pack most of the features found on the AirPods Pro in a sportier design and are available in multiple color options. You should definitely check these out before buying the AirPods 3 or AirPods Pro at the same price from the Apple store. Read our Beats Fit Pro review.
Apple's first full-size headphones are chock-full of high-end features like noise cancellation, spatial audio and easy integration with Apple devices. Yes, paying about the same as you would for a PS5 may sound crazy, but here's the crazier thing: They're actually kinda worth it, so long as you don't feel burned by their lack of support for full lossless audio and lack of included cable for wired listening (which must be purchased separately).
We've occasionally seen the Apple AirPods Max prices dip as low as $395 in certain colors, but right now they're hovering around $480 at most retailers.
Apple's original AirPods Pro have been discontinued, so they're gradually getting a little harder to find (Amazon is only stocking "renewed" versions). While a clear step down from the new AirPod Pro 2, if you can find them at a steep discount -- under $180 -- they may be worth buying.
The newest 2021 AirPods deliver better sound quality than their predecessors while maintaining an open design. Slightly larger and shaped more like the AirPods, they should be a better fit for more people's ears, but at the same time, they may not fit those with very small ears who got a perfect fit with the AirPods 2nd Generation. Read our AirPods 3 review.
Apple's second-generation AirPods remain in the line but no longer include a wireless-charging option. Apple has dropped the official price of the AirPods 2 to $129, though you can usually find them for $100 or less.
They're not as feature-packed as the other AirPods on this list, but they remain an appealing option for folks on a tighter budget or those who've worn out their original pair but love their fit and simply want to replace them.
Apple AirPods FAQs
What are the newest AirPods?
The newest AirPods are the AirPods Pro (2nd generation), which hit stores in September 2022, and feature Apple's new H2 chip along with better sound, noise canceling and battery life. The third-generation AirPods with enhanced functionality, improved sound and an updated design arrived in stores in October 2021 Meanwhile, the Beats Fit Pro -- which share most of the same features as the original AirPods Pro -- arrived in November 2021. While they're not AirPods by name, we and others have referred to them as "the sports AirPods you always wanted."
Are the AirPods Pro 2 better than the Beats Fit Pro?
With their integrated wingtips, the Beats Fit Pro may offer you a more secure fit than AirPods Pro 2 and they do cost $50 less (and sometimes even less when they go on sale). Otherwise, the AirPods Pro 2 are better -- they have slightly better sound quality and noise canceling along with better voice-calling performance.
Also note that the Beats Fit Pro are missing wireless charging and the MagSafe compatibility found in the AirPods Pro 2.
Should I buy AirPods in the Apple Store?
If you can help it, no: The various AirPods models typically sell for less online at other retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Amazon, meanwhile, typically matches the lowest price at other retailers. Generally, we'd only buy AirPods at the Apple Store if we want engraving, which isn't available elsewhere. That said, if you opt to go into an Apple Store for Apple deals, you should ask about price matching. While Apple doesn't seem to have any official policy, it's been reported that it will offer up to 10% price matching. As an example, that would be $25 off the AirPods Pro, which list for $249. That's not much, but it's worth asking to see if you can get 10% off.
Does spatial audio sound different on different AirPods?
The short answer is, not really when you're talking about spatial audio with head tracking for movie and TV watching. While the AirPods Max offer the best sound overall, using the spatial audio virtual sound feature is largely the same experience on all the AirPods that support it.