Comparing All Official Apple Earphones | Which One to Choose by Use Case
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There are currently 5 types of official Apple earphones.
Including not just the AirPods series but also the wired EarPods, there are surprisingly many options, and I often hear people say they want to know the differences between them.
In this article, I will simply organize the features of each model.
This is a summary for those who want to choose only from official Apple products.
AirPods 4
A versatile model with a good balance of lightness and price
Active Noise Cancellation
Live Translation
Adaptive Audio
Transparency mode
Personalized Spatial Audio
USB-C charging case
Qi charging support
Dust, sweat, and water resistance
H2 chip
A model that is lightweight and easy to handle while equipped with all the latest features.
It is suitable for those who want to prioritize the balance between price and functionality.
AirPods Pro 3
For those who prioritize silence and health management
Powerful Active Noise Cancellation
Live Translation
Heart Rate Sensor
Hearing Aid Features
Spatial Audio
USB-C Charging Case
Dust, Sweat, and Water Resistance
Qi Charging Support
Features silence performance and health management functions.
Perfect for those who want to "focus" or "manage their health."
EarPods Series
There are three types of EarPods, but the key point is that sound quality changes more based on the "connected device" than the "connector type."
Furthermore, EarPods are also wired earphones that allow you to experience Apple's sound engineering at a low price.
Simpler than wireless and no battery required.
Recommended for those who "want to try Apple's official sound" or "want the stability of a wired connection."
EarPods (USB-C)
The standard model for the USB-C era
Connects directly to USB-C iPhones / iPads / Macs
Zero latency
Lightweight with no battery required
Sound Quality Characteristics
The USB-C version is the type where sound changes depending on the DAC of the connected device.
On an iPhone, the tendency is almost the same as the Lightning version, but on a Mac or PC, the sound can sometimes be slightly clearer and firmer.
Key Points
Suitable not only for iPhone, but also for those who want to use them with multiple devices such as iPad, Mac, and PC.
EarPods (3.5mm)
The wired earphones that deliver the most "raw sound"
Compatible with a wide range of devices via the 3.5mm jack
Zero latency
Sound Quality Characteristics
Since the sound quality of the connected device is reproduced as-is, it produces a natural and expansive sound when connected to PCs or audio equipment.
Key Points
A versatile model that can be used for a wide range of purposes beyond iPhone, including PCs, audio equipment, and game consoles.
EarPods (Lightning)
Stable wired sound quality for older iPhone models
Can be used directly with the Lightning connector
Zero latency because they are wired
Lightweight and comfortable even for long periods of use
Sound Quality Characteristics
Lightning connection includes sound optimization by Apple, resulting in a flat sound with little coloration.
Suitable for those who want to listen to stable sound on their iPhone.
Which one should you choose based on your needs
Lightweight, Price, Latest Features → AirPods 4
Focus on Silence and Concentration → AirPods Pro 3
Wired User with USB-C iPhone → EarPods (USB-C)
PC Work and Music Production → EarPods (3.5mm)
Wired User with Lightning iPhone → EarPods (Lightning)
Summary
The model you should choose for official Apple earphones changes depending on
which port you use and how you use them.
If you want to use the latest wireless features → AirPods series
If you want the reliability of a wired connection → EarPods series
Whether your iPhone port is USB-C or Lightning
Whether you do a lot of PC work
Do you need noise cancellation?
Using this as a criterion will help you choose without hesitation.
If you like the sound of EarPods, the AirPods series, which follows the same Apple sound signature, is also a great choice and highly recommended.
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