Apple AirPods 2nd Gen vs Beats Studio Buds+
The Verdict
Apple AirPods 2nd Gen remain an excellent entry-level option for Apple ecosystem users, offering seamless integration via the H1 chip and iconic simplicity at $129. Beats Studio Buds+ ($169) substantially upgrade the experience with active noise cancellation, transparency mode, IPX4 water resistance, and longer battery life (6 hours with ANC on versus 5 hours). The dual-element 9.5mm driver delivers richer audio than Apple's proprietary driver, while USB-C charging and quick 5-minute top-ups provide practical advantages. However, AirPods 2 excel in pure convenience and value for users deeply embedded in Apple's ecosystem. For those prioritizing sound quality, weather resistance, and ANC,especially Android users,Beats Studio Buds+ justify the $40 premium. Casual listeners valuing simplicity should stick with AirPods 2, while audiophile-leaning users or frequent travelers will appreciate Beats' comprehensive feature set and durability.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen if…
- →Iconic design and effortless Apple ecosystem integration
- →H1 chip enables hands-free Hey Siri voice commands
- →Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
Buy the Beats Studio Buds+ if…
- →Works equally well with iOS and Android — rare for Beats
- →Transparent case is a unique, eye-catching design
- →36 hours total battery with case is exceptional
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 2nd Gen
Pros
- Iconic design and effortless Apple ecosystem integration
- H1 chip enables hands-free Hey Siri voice commands
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- Quick and reliable pairing with all Apple devices
- Affordable entry point into the AirPods lineup
Cons
- No water or sweat resistance rating — risky for workouts
- 5-hour battery life is below average by modern standards
- No noise cancellation or transparency mode
- One-size-fits-all design doesn't suit every ear shape
- Lightning charging only — no USB-C
Beats Studio Buds+
Pros
- Works equally well with iOS and Android — rare for Beats
- Transparent case is a unique, eye-catching design
- 36 hours total battery with case is exceptional
- Improved ANC over original Studio Buds — blocks significantly more noise
- Lightweight at 5 g per bud with comfortable fit
Cons
- No Apple H2 or W1 chip — misses some Apple ecosystem features
- SBC/AAC only — no aptX or LDAC for audiophile Android users
- No multipoint Bluetooth connection
- Transparency mode still not as natural as AirPods Pro 2
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 2nd Gen | Beats Studio Buds+ |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4 g (each) | 5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs (earbuds), 24 hrs total with case | 6 hrs ANC on (9 hrs off), 36 hrs total with case |
| Charging | Lightning (wireless charging case optional) | USB-C, 5 min = 1 hr playback |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver | Custom 9.5mm dual-element driver |
| Features | H1 chip with Hey Siri support, Automatic ear detection, Seamless Apple device switching, Quick pairing via proximity | Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Enhanced Apple and Android compatibility, One-touch pairing on both iOS and Android, Custom acoustic platform with dual-element driver, Find My (iOS) and Find My Device (Android), Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking (Apple) |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IPX4 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Beats products. View full details for the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen or the Beats Studio Buds+.