What's the difference between AirPods and AirPods Pro?

If you're a fan of Apple earbuds, it can be hard to decide between AirPods vs AirPods Pro. The Pro version has a higher price tag of course, but what else separates them from original AirPods? You can save a lot of money on either model by buying refurbished used AirPods, but are refurbished AirPods any good? Read on to find out the difference between AirPods and AirPods Pro and whether it's ok to buy used AirPods.

AirPods vs AirPods Pro: Performance

While both versions of these wireless earbuds will deliver on the design, functionality, and convenience we've come to expect from Apple, there are some key differences between AirPods and AirPods Pro. Like most Apple products, the Pro version is more expensive, but comes with some additional features.

One of the main differences is that AirPods Pro offer active noise cancellation. If you're a frequent flier, work in a noisy office, or simply prefer noise canceling headphones, this feature alone may make buying a pair of refurbished AirPods Pro worth it.

When it comes to battery life, there's not a huge difference between AirPods and AirPods Pro. However, using the active noise cancellation (ANC) on the Pros will cost you about 30 minutes of listening time. Both the AirPods Pro and AirPods will last about 5 hours, but the Pros will last about 4.5 hours with ANC on. Using an AirPods charging case with either model will give you 24 hours of battery life. 

Unlike the standard AirPods, AirPods Pro are also water resistant. The more recently released AirPods 3 are also water resistant, but lack some of the other features of the Pros. If you plan to use your AirPods at the gym or for outdoor activities, you'll likely want the Pros or AirPods 3 for their sweat and water resistance.

Pro Tip: Want a great deal on an iPhone to pair seamlessly with your refurbished AirPods? Check out our refurbished iPhones to save even more!

AirPods vs AirPods Pro: Wear and comfort

The style and fit of standard AirPods is quite different from AirPods Pro. AirPods have a longer stem, plastic housing, and a "universal fit" while the Pros have a shorter stem and a silicone tip that sits deeper in the ear canal. AirPods Pro have a more customizable fit since they come with three different sets of silicone tips in different sizes (small, medium, and large) so users can find the best fit for their ears.

The look and feel of wireless earbuds is mostly a matter of personal preference, and plenty of users find both versions to be comfortable. Everybody's ears are slightly different. While the original AirPods are a great fit for some ears, others complain that they don’t sit quite right.

Since the original AirPods don't sit as far inside the ear and don't offer active noice cancelling, you'll hear more ambient noise with them in, which some users prefer. However, the AirPods Pro offer a feature called Transparency Mode to allow users to hear conversations and sounds around them, even while playing audio.

If you're sensitive to pressure buildup in your ears, the AirPods Pro may be more comfortable. The vent system on AirPods Pro is designed to reduce the pressure that can build up inside the ear while wearing in-ear headphones. This pressure equalization is another feature that is only available on the Pro version.

Are AirPods Pro worth it?

If you don't need your wireless earbuds to have noise cancellation or be water resistant, a pair of refurbished first or second generation AirPods is a great choice. Opting for the AirPods 3 will get you water resistance and an updated design. However, the AirPods Pro are worth it if you're among those who find that standard AirPods can have an awkward fit, or if you want the upgraded sound quality and additional features that are exclusive to the Pro version. 

The Airpods Pro is still the only model of Apple wireless earbuds to offer custom ear tips, pressure equalization, active noise cancellation, and Transparency Mode. Depending on your budget, ears, and listening preferences, you might find that the AirPods Pro are worth the additional cost. The good news is that shopping for refurbished AirPods can save you a lot of money—no matter which version you choose.

Are refurbished AirPods good?

Buying refurbished AirPods is a smart way to save money but you might be wondering, exactly what does refurbished AirPods mean? Unlike used AirPods, refurbished products will have the same performance capabilities as new versions. Refurbished AirPods may have been returned or exchanged by a customer without being previously used, or may have been repaired by experts. At Back Market, all refurbished AirPods are renewed and tested by experts!

If you're still unsure about which set of earbuds to pick up, check out our article comparing AirPods to another industry favorite: Google Pixel Buds.

Is it better to get refurbished or used AirPods?

It's always better to get a refurbished set of AirPods from a trusted retailer than buying a used pair from a random third party. Refurbished products have been expertly repaired and checked for functionality, while used items are typically sold as-is.

Depending on where you buy your used AirPods, you may not have the option to get a refund if they don't work as expected. At Back Market, all refurbished products come with a minimum 1-year warranty and 30 days to change your mind!

Are refurbished AirPods worth it?

Refurbished AirPods or AirPods Pro are worth it if you're looking for high quality Apple wireless earbuds at a fraction of the price of new. As long as you're buying from a trusted retailer that has a clear return and warranty policy, refurbished AirPods are a great deal that can last you for many years.

Don't wait for Black Friday to score a discount on AirPods! You can save money on AirPods and AirPods Pro all year long at Back Market.