I admit it. I was one of those skeptics who initially mocked the wireless Apple AirPods ($159). But quickly changed my tune upon release.
And, having picked up my own pair of AirPods a few weeks back, I stand by my reassessment. They’re inferior in most ways to the wired Bose QuietComfort earbuds tips and Plantronics Voyager Edge that they replace. Yet the Apple experience, in totality, is far greater than the sum of its parts. It’s hard to articulate exactly why, but I’m taking more phone calls and listening to more audio with Apple.
Pros:
- Despite the three pieces, overall compact and clutter-free. A welcome improvement over my sloppily coiled and frequently tangled Bose.
- Comfortable enough and I highly doubt they’d ever fall out my ears during normal activities, as frequently asked.
- Solid battery life and quick charging.
- Pause/play upon removal/insertion.
- Audio quality is fine, keeping in mind I’m no audiophile.
- Double tap for Siri.
Cons:
- Maximum benefits for those with Apple hardware.
- White is a great marketing tool, but I’d prefer a more subtle matte black or grey.
- No rubberized, silicon tips to block out ambient noise and keep volume lower.
- No physical buttons and limited touch control, emphasizing Siri’s shortcomings.
- Mic doesn’t perform great in a windy environment.