Best AirPods 2025: I’ve used every pair of Apple headphones and earbuds – these are the winners

Why we like them: The AirPods Pro 2 are Apple's most advanced headphones, offering hearing health features, effective active and adaptive noise cancellation, and Apple's superb transparency mode. They are also Apple's only in-canal earbuds with silicone tips, which provide a tight seal between your ears and the outside world, allowing you to focus better on your audio.

Also: I've used my AirPods Pro 2 since they first launched. Here's my buying advice for 2025

Who they're for: These AirPods are ideal for iOS users looking for a small, easily pocketable pair of AirPods with advanced, "pro"-level features. The AirPods Pro 2 are ideal for people who don't prefer over-ear headphones and, instead, desire earbuds for everyday use. 

The AirPods Pro 2 sport an IP54 rating, making them dust, sweat, and water resistant. This rating provides enough durability to head to the gym with you after work. Working professionals, frequent flyers, and people on the move can appreciate the Pro 2's compatibility with their iPhone, which allows them to command Siri, take and make phone calls, and add events to their calendars hands-free.

Who should look elsewhere: Although the AirPods Pro 2 are our favorite AirPods for their versatility and performance, you should consider the AirPods 4 if the Pro 2 are too advanced for your needs, or if you don't like the in-canal sensation. If you want over-ear headphones that are an auditory companion to your Apple devices, consider the AirPods Max.

Like all AirPods, you should consider other headphones and earbuds if you have an Android smartphone or tablet, or a Windows or ChromeOS laptop. You'll overpay for these earbuds and miss out on their best features, should you pair them with a non-Apple device.

AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) with USB-C features: Type: In-ear | Chip: H2 | Battery life: 6 hours | Water-resistant: IP54 (dust, sweat, and water resistant)