Apple AirPods 5 vs Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Case (USB-C)
Buy the AirPods Pro 2 if noise cancellation and battery life matter most: they cut up to 2x more noise than the original Pro and run 5.5 hours per charge, 30 hours with the case. Buy the AirPods 5 if you want an open-ear fit that keeps you aware of traffic and conversation, plus newer software features like Live Translation. The AirPods 5 is $129.00 at Apple as of November 3, 2026, and the Pro 2 has no current new price listed, only a used-market low of $80.00 on October 31, 2026.
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Apple AirPods 5
4.6$129.00at AppleObserved at 12:25 AM
Choose the AirPods 5 if you want open-ear earbuds that stay comfortable for hours, let in your surroundings, and add Live Translation and Siri AI on a recent iPhone.
Pros
- Open-ear design keeps you aware of traffic and conversation
- IP57 dust and water resistance for workouts and rain
- Live Translation and Siri AI on Apple Intelligence iPhones
- Comfortable for long wear with no tip pressure
- $129.00 at Apple as of November 3, 2026
Cons
- Open design lets in noise and distracts from music
What separates them
| Apple AirPods 5 | Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Case (USB-C) | |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Open-ear, no silicone tips | In-ear with silicone tips and a sealed canal |
| Noise cancellation | Up to 50% better than AirPods 4 | Up to 2x the original AirPods Pro |
| Battery per charge | About 4 hours | About 5.5 hours |
| Total with case | Not stated | Up to 30 hours |
| Chip | Not stated | Apple H2 |
| Water and dust rating | IP57 | Not stated |
| Software features | Live Translation, Siri AI, Adaptive Audio, Personalised Spatial Audio | Adaptive Audio, Personalised Spatial Audio, hearing test and aid |
| Price |
Price history
$265.28$80.00
- Apple AirPods 5: lowest $114.99 on Nov 2 at Walmart; $129.00 on Nov 3.
- Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Case (USB-C): lowest $80.00 on Oct 31 at Mercari; $265.28 on Nov 1.
Prices at every store
Apple AirPods 5
- WalmartNew
In stock
$129.00Free shippingObserved at 7:53 PM - Best BuyNew
In stock
$129.00Free shippingObserved at 7:53 PM - StaplesNew
In stock
$129.00Free shippingObserved at 7:53 PM - AppleNew
Availability unknown
$129.00Free shippingObserved at 12:25 AM
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Specs compared
| Spec | Apple AirPods 5 | Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Case (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Headphone type | Earbuds | In the Ear |
| Headphone style | In-Ear | — |
| Noise control technology | Active Noise Cancellation | — |
| Wireless | Y | — |
| Brand | Apple | — |
| Works with | iPhone | — |
| Assembled product weight | 0.28 lb | — |
| Color | White | — |
| Accessories | Wireless Charging Case | — |
| Battery consumption type | Integrated Rechargeable Battery | — |
| Power type |
Questions and answers
- Which is better for noisy commutes?
- The AirPods Pro 2. Its sealed tips and H2 chip deliver up to 2x the noise cancellation of the original Pro, while the AirPods 5 open design lets noise in by design.
- Which lasts longer on a charge?
- The AirPods Pro 2, at about 5.5 hours versus about 4 hours for the AirPods 5, and up to 30 hours total with the MagSafe case.
- Are the AirPods 5 worth it over the Pro 2?
- Only if you want an open fit, IP57 water resistance, or Live Translation. For noise blocking and battery life, the Pro 2 wins.
- Which is better for running?
- The AirPods 5, because of its IP57 dust and sweat rating. The Pro 2 has no stated water rating, and some AirPods 5 wearers report the buds can fall out.
- Do both have Adaptive Audio and Spatial Audio?
- Yes. Both blend ANC with Transparency through Adaptive Audio and support Personalised Spatial Audio with head tracking.
- How do the prices compare?
- The AirPods 5 is $129.00 at Apple as of November 3, 2026. The AirPods Pro 2 has no current new price listed; its lowest recent price was $80.00 on October 31, 2026, on the used market.
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