During Apple's 1-hour and 17-minute September event—which featured everything from a foldable iPhone to new Apple Watches—the tech giant dedicated just five minutes to the AirPods 5. However, after a month of hands-on testing alongside the AirPods Pro 3, these earbuds prove to be one of the most practical releases from the lineup, offering improved features at an accessible price point.
Redesigned Build and Ergonomics
While often described as having an open-ear design, the AirPods 5 actually features a semi-in-ear fit. Unlike the AirPods Pro series, these earbuds do not rely on silicone ear tips that seal off the ear canal. For users who suffer from moisture trapping, earwax buildup, or discomfort from tight-fitting tips, this stem-style design provides a hassle-free, lightweight alternative.
Despite the lack of silicone tips, fit remains subjective. Universal shapes do not suit every ear structure perfectly, which means comfort will vary depending on your personal ear shape. On the durability front, both the earbuds and their ultra-compact charging case feature an IP57 dust and water resistance rating, rendering them tough enough for gym workouts and everyday outdoor use.
ANC, Audio, and Features
Unlike the two-year-old AirPods 4 where noise cancellation demanded an extra fee, the base model AirPods 5 brings Active Noise Cancellation out of the box at a lower entry price. Apple still offers a higher-end version featuring a wireless charging case, which also adds touch controls like volume swiping on the force sensor stem.
Apple overhauled the internal acoustic architecture for this generation, producing standout audio quality for an unsealed earbud design. While battery life remains a mild constraint, the strong combination of active noise suppression and redesigned acoustics makes the AirPods 5 a standout pick for tip-free audio gear.
