Accessories
Which AirPods Should You Buy? (And Should You Buy Them Refurbished?)
AirPods 4 with ANC for most people. AirPods Pro for the best noise cancelling and fit. Here's how to choose, and what to check if buying refurbished.
Get AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation if you hate silicone ear tips. Get AirPods Pro (2nd or 3rd gen) if you want the best noise cancelling and a secure fit for the gym or commute. AirPods Max only if you want over-ear headphones and don't mind the weight.
Quick picks
- Best for most people: AirPods Pro. Best noise cancelling, best fit, great sound.
- Best open-fit: AirPods 4 with ANC. No ear tips, surprisingly good noise cancelling.
- Cheapest: AirPods 4 (without ANC).
- Over-ear: AirPods Max.
The lineup at a glance
| AirPods 4 | AirPods 4 (ANC) | AirPods Pro 2 | AirPods Pro 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Released | 2024 | 2024 | 2022 (USB-C 2023) | 2025 |
| Fit | Open, no tips | Open, no tips | Silicone tips | Silicone tips |
| Noise cancelling | No | Yes | Yes, strong | Yes, strongest |
| Transparency mode | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Hearing health features | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Heart rate sensing | No | No | No | Yes |
AirPods 4: if ear tips bug you
AirPods 4 sit in your ear without silicone tips, so they feel lighter and less "plugged". The ANC version does a solid job on bus and office noise, though not as well as the Pro, since there's no seal.
AirPods Pro: the one most people should get
The seal from the ear tips makes the noise cancelling and bass much better, and they stay put during workouts. AirPods Pro 2 also gained hearing test and hearing aid features. AirPods Pro 3 improved noise cancelling and fit further, and added heart rate tracking for workouts.
A refurbished Pro 2 is the value pick. The Pro 3 is the best if you want the latest.
AirPods Max: over-ear
Great sound and noise cancelling, premium build, but heavy and pricey, and the case is more of a sleeve. Worth it if you want over-ear and live in Apple's world.
Not on iPhone?
AirPods work with Android as basic Bluetooth earbuds, but you lose auto-switching, easy setup, battery widgets and most settings. Android users usually get more from Galaxy Buds or Pixel Buds.
Buying refurbished AirPods: what to check
- Battery health. AirPods batteries can't be cheaply replaced, and they wear like phone batteries. Make sure they've been tested for battery life.
- New ear tips. For hygiene, Pro models should come with fresh tips.
- Genuine. Fake AirPods are everywhere. Check the serial number on Apple's coverage site.
- Unpaired. They should be removed from the previous owner's Apple Account so Find My doesn't block pairing.
- Warranty. A must for earbuds.
Make them last
- Keep the case clean and dry. Clean the mesh with a dry, soft brush.
- Don't leave them in a hot car.
- Turn on Optimized Battery Charging (on by default with an iPhone).
Shop audio
Browse refurbished audio. Want a phone to go with them? See which iPhone to buy.
FAQ
Are refurbished AirPods safe and hygienic?
From a proper refurbisher, yes. They should be cleaned, tested, and Pro models should come with new ear tips.
AirPods 4 or AirPods Pro?
AirPods Pro for the best noise cancelling and a secure fit. AirPods 4 if you find ear tips uncomfortable.
How long do AirPods batteries last?
Most AirPods noticeably lose battery life after a few years of daily use. That's why battery testing matters when buying refurbished.
Same tech, way less money
Every refurbished and pre-owned device is tested by real technicians, backed by a 1-year warranty and 30-day returns.