Apple has introduced its new AirPods 5, which are significantly cheaper and an improved version of the AirPods 4 released in 2024. These compact yet versatile earbuds include active noise cancellation, a feature that Apple engineers worked hard to achieve without requiring an acoustic seal. The AirPods 5 are comparable to the AirPods Pro 3 in many ways, and in some aspects, they are even better. This new model overturns the typical expectation for Apple products, where pricier Pro variants usually offer superior features.
The AirPods 5 offer a big upgrade over last year's model, with an even more competitive price point. Previously, the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation cost $179, while the basic version was priced at $129 and often sold for as low as $99. By delivering Pro level performance at a much lower cost, the AirPods 5 significantly change the value proposition for Apple's earbud lineup.