Early reviews of the Apple AirPods 5 are in, and they paint a clear picture: Apple's mid-range earbuds now deliver stronger active noise cancellation and a handful of user-friendly upgrades. ANC comes standard on both models, while the $149 version adds a wireless charging case, swipe volume controls, and longer battery life. Reviewers note the surprising effectiveness of noise cancellation given the open-ear design.

What You Need to Know

The AirPods 5 represent a strategic shift for Apple, bringing premium noise cancellation to a more accessible price tier. Swipe volume controls address a longtime user complaint, and the wireless charging case adds convenience. These upgrades make the AirPods 5 a stronger competitor in the crowded mid-range earbud market dominated by Samsung and Sony.

Key Upgrades in the AirPods 5

The AirPods 5 introduce several notable improvements over their predecessors. The most significant change is the inclusion of active noise cancellation across the entire lineup, not just the higher-priced model. Reviewers describe the ANC as surprisingly effective for an open-ear design, blocking consistent background noise like traffic or office hum while keeping the wearer aware of their surroundings.

  • Standard ANC: Both the $129 and $149 models now include active noise cancellation, a feature previously reserved for higher-end AirPods Pro.
  • Swipe volume controls: Users can adjust volume by swiping along the stem, eliminating the need to reach for their phone or use Siri.
  • Wireless charging case: The $149 model includes a case that works with any Qi wireless charger, adding convenience for daily use.
  • Battery life: Apple claims longer listening time, with up to seven hours on a single charge before needing the case.

Why This Matters

The AirPods 5 lower the barrier to entry for Apple's noise-canceling earbuds. By making ANC standard, Apple is directly competing with mid-range offerings from Samsung and Sony, which have long offered effective noise cancellation at similar price points. Swipe volume controls solve a friction point that users have complained about since the original AirPods launched. For consumers, the choice between basic and premium earbuds now hinges less on core features and more on fit and form factor. The open-ear design of the AirPods 5 means they remain comfortable for all-day wear but cannot match the isolation of silicone-tipped in-ear models. That trade-off may matter less for those who prioritize situational awareness over total noise blocking. The wireless charging case also aligns the AirPods 5 with the broader industry trend toward cable-free setups.

Design and Fit Remain Familiar

The AirPods 5 maintain the same stem-based silhouette as previous generations, ensuring compatibility with existing cases and accessories. Reviewers note that the fit is unchanged, meaning users who found earlier AirPods comfortable will feel right at home. The earbuds remain sweat and water resistant, making them suitable for workouts. One area where Apple has not made changes is the lack of customizable ear tips: the AirPods 5 use the same rigid plastic shell, so users must rely on the one-size-fits-all approach. That choice contrasts with competitors that offer multiple silicone tip sizes for a more personalized seal.