Apple AirPods 2nd Gen vs Sony WF-C500
The Verdict
Both budget-friendly earbuds skip active noise cancellation, but differ meaningfully in daily usability. Apple AirPods 2 excel for iPhone/iPad ecosystems with seamless H1 chip integration, automatic device switching, and reliable 5-hour earbud runtime. Sony WF-C500 counters with superior 10-hour battery life, IPX4 water resistance for workouts, and Android Fast Pairing convenience at a lower $99 price point. Sound-wise, Sony's DSEE enhancement and 360 Reality Audio provide engaging spatial features, while AirPods deliver Apple's tuned AAC codec performance. For iPhone users prioritizing ecosystem harmony, AirPods remain the natural choice. Android enthusiasts or those needing extended battery and water protection should choose Sony. Neither matches premium ANC models, but WF-C500 offers better value and practical durability for the price.
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 Sony WF-C500 if…
- →10-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for the price
- →Compact, lightweight design disappears in the ear
- →DSEE upscaling improves compressed audio quality
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
Sony WF-C500
Pros
- 10-hour battery life per charge is outstanding for the price
- Compact, lightweight design disappears in the ear
- DSEE upscaling improves compressed audio quality
- IPX4 sweat resistance handles workouts
- Reliable Sony sound quality at a budget-friendly price
Cons
- No ANC or ambient sound mode
- No multipoint Bluetooth connection
- No wireless charging case
- Basic microphone quality — not ideal for calls
- SBC/AAC only — no high-resolution codecs
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 2nd Gen | Sony WF-C500 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4 g (each) | 5.5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs (earbuds), 24 hrs total with case | 10 hrs (20 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | Lightning (wireless charging case optional) | USB-C |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver | 5.8mm driver |
| Features | H1 chip with Hey Siri support, Automatic ear detection, Seamless Apple device switching, Quick pairing via proximity | DSEE digital sound enhancement, 360 Reality Audio, Sony Headphones Connect app, Fast Pair for Android |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| 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 Sony products. View full details for the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen or the Sony WF-C500.