With the release of the AirPods Pro 3 in 2025, many Apple fans are wondering whether the AirPods Pro 2 still hold their value. Originally launched in late 2022, the AirPods Pro 2 built upon the success of the first generation with improved noise cancellation, better sound, and longer battery life. Now that Apple’s newest model is out, it’s worth revisiting whether the AirPods Pro 2 remain a smart buy — especially given their new lower price point.
Thanks to the H2 chip, the AirPods Pro 2 still deliver excellent performance in 2025. They feature adaptive audio, improved active noise cancellation (ANC), and seamless integration across Apple devices — all of which continue to make them a strong contender. For users who don’t need the latest AirPods Pro 3 upgrades like Adaptive Transparency 2.0 or lossless audio support with Vision Pro, the AirPods Pro 2 remain an excellent value, especially when they’re available for under $200 (source: ZDNET).
Key Takeaways (2025 Update)
- Still premium quality: The AirPods Pro 2 maintain excellent sound, ANC, and comfort — rivaling newer models in real-world use.
- Better value than ever: Prices have dropped significantly in 2025, making them one of the best sub-$200 earbuds available.
- Best for Apple users: Seamless integration with iPhone, iPad, and Mac continues to make them ideal for Apple ecosystem users.
- Skip if you need the latest tech: The AirPods Pro 3 offer slightly better audio fidelity and new software features, but the difference may not justify the higher cost for most users.
Comprehensive Analysis of AirPods Pro 2 in 2025
Even two years after release, the AirPods Pro 2 remain a benchmark for wireless earbuds. Their combination of comfort, sound quality, and smart features continues to impress, particularly for Apple users who value convenience and reliability.
Design and Comfort
The AirPods Pro 2 maintain their compact, ergonomic design with multiple ear tip sizes for a secure fit. The IPX4 water resistance still makes them suitable for workouts or rainy commutes. The MagSafe charging case — complete with a lanyard loop and built-in speaker — remains one of the most practical on the market.
Sound Quality and Technologies
Powered by the H2 chip, the AirPods Pro 2 deliver balanced, detailed sound with impressive bass for their size. Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ provide an immersive listening experience that rivals newer models. While the AirPods Pro 3 slightly improve clarity and dynamic range, most users won’t notice a dramatic difference in everyday listening.
Performance and Battery Life
Battery life remains strong at around 6 hours of listening time (30 hours with the case). The Active Noise Cancellation is still among the best in 2025, outperforming many rivals like the Sony WF-1000XM5 in consistency and comfort (source: SmartTechly). The Adaptive Transparency Mode also continues to impress by dynamically filtering loud environmental sounds without distortion.
Connectivity and Integration
With Bluetooth 5.3 and deep iOS integration, the AirPods Pro 2 pair instantly and switch automatically between Apple devices. Features like Find My, Audio Sharing, and Personalized Spatial Audio remain fully supported in iOS 18, ensuring they don’t feel outdated despite the newer model’s release.
Comparative Market Analysis
Compared to 2025’s top competitors — such as the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds — the AirPods Pro 2 remain a top-tier choice for Apple users. While others may offer slightly better soundstage or customization, none match Apple’s ecosystem synergy and ease of use (source: Get Wired Up Now).
Final Verdict: Still Worth It?
In 2025, the AirPods Pro 2 remain one of the best wireless earbuds available — especially at their new lower price. Unless you need the absolute latest features from the AirPods Pro 3, the second generation offers nearly the same premium experience for significantly less. For most users, they’re still absolutely worth it.
