Apple AirPods 5 Review: Enhanced Tech with Open-Ear Design

Introduction

The release of the Apple AirPods 5 marks a significant update to one of the world’s most popular audio products. Nearly a decade after debuting their first-generation model, Apple has maintained the relevance of the AirPods series. With improvements in noise cancellation, audio quality, battery life, and gestures, the AirPods 5 seamlessly blend innovation with the classic design still favored by many users. However, a closer look reveals a distinction in features between the two models: the $149 variant comes packed with all the innovations, while the $129 model omits several enhancements.

Design and Comfort

At first glance, the design of the AirPods 5 appears unchanged from the previous generation. Both the earbuds and the case boast identical dimensions and aesthetics, preserving the recognizable open-ear shape and glossy white finish. The case remains compact with a hinged lid reminiscent of dental floss packaging. Users familiar with AirPods 4 will find no surprises here, and while the design remains appealing to many, it lacks novelty.

Although the form factor may seem familiar, some functional shortcomings have emerged, including the difficulty in retrieving the small earbuds from the case due to their slick exterior. The AirPods 5 are rated IP57 for dust and water resistance, adding a layer of durability, but the fit may vary significantly across different users, which could affect overall comfort. Some users may find the earbuds secure and comfortable, while others might struggle to get a good fit. A visit to an Apple Store to test the fit could be beneficial for prospective buyers.

Software and Features

Designed mainly for Apple product compatibility, the AirPods 5 offer seamless pairing with devices like the iPhone and iPad. Upon opening the case, users experience the familiar one-tap pairing that has become a hallmark feature of the AirPods series. New features include:

• Spatial Audio with Head Tracking: Personalized sound experience based on the user’s ear shape.
• Personalized Volume: Adjusts audio levels in response to ambient noise.
• Conversation Awareness: Lowers music volume when the user speaks.
• Automatic Pausing: Pauses media when the user falls asleep.
• Find My: Helps locate misplaced earbuds using Apple’s Find My network.

Significantly, the AirPods 5 include an equalizer for audio adjustments within iOS and iPadOS, though its functionality is limited to three adjustable bands. A beta feature, Live Translation, translates nearby spoken language into preferred languages, currently supporting eleven languages.

Exclusive Features of the Wireless Charging Model

The AirPods 5 come in two configurations: standard and with a Wireless Charging Case. Key differentiators of the Wireless Charging model include:

• Swipe Gesture for Volume Control: This feature is absent from the base model, which relies on force sensors for interaction.
• Built-in Speaker: The case emits sounds for notifications and assists in locating the case through Apple’s Find My service — a significant feature for those prone to misplacing their items.

Although the base model lacks these features, it is still designed with the same technology found in the more expensive variant, making both versions significant in their own right.

Audio Performance and Quality

Equipped with a vented "custom high-excursion Apple driver" and a high dynamic range amplifier, the AirPods 5 deliver notable audio quality for their design. With the use of Adaptive Audio technology, the earbuds adjust output to optimize sound consistency for varying ear shapes, enhancing the listening experience for users. However, the open-ear design introduces limitations: while the sound quality is commendable, bass response suffers due to the inherent challenges of open-ear configurations. Apple compensates by boosting mid and upper frequencies, which can lead to an occasionally boomy sound.

Though the AirPods 5 excel in their category as the best-sounding open-ear earbuds available, they do not match the sound quality of the in-ear AirPods Pro 3 models. Details in music may be highlighted, but users accustomed to bass-rich in-ear designs might find the sound profile less satisfying.

Microphone Quality

The microphone quality on the AirPods 5 remains robust, comparable to other Apple devices utilizing the H2 chip. With high-quality audio capture through the AAC-ELD codec, the AirPods 5 deliver clear voice quality under optimal conditions. Users in quieter environments can expect excellent audio, yet background noise reduction skills are not as effective compared to more recent Bluetooth devices. In noisy environments, speech clarity may come at the cost of background noise filtration, revealing a common challenge among open-ear designs.

Noise Cancellation and Transparency Modes

The AirPods 5 support both active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes. However, the performance in noise cancellation presents a mixed evaluation. While achieving some level of ANC capability is commendable given the open design, the efficacy is limited compared to traditional closed-back headphones. The ANC primarily attenuates lower frequencies, while higher frequencies remain perceptible, leading to potential distractions.

In terms of functionality, calibration of ANC takes time upon first use, creating a waiting period as the earbuds adjust to achieve effective noise cancellation. Users might find that the ANC features require readjustments whenever the earbuds shift. The transparency mode adds clarity to sounds but proves redundant when ANC is disabled, as users can naturally hear environmental sounds without compromising audio quality.

Battery Life

The AirPods 5 boast a claimed battery life of 4 hours for the standard model and 5 hours for the model with the Wireless Charging Case. With ANC or transparency turned off, the battery life can extend to 6 and 7 hours respectively. Users reported that actual performance varied: continuous playback time was about 5 hours and 11 minutes with ANC on, increasing to 7 hours and 29 minutes without ANC.

Charging provides approximately 1 hour of use after just a 5-minute charge, affirming the need for reliable battery performance during travel. Users may find the standard model's shorter battery life limiting for extended use, making the Wireless Charging model a more viable option for those on the go.

Model Comparison

Conclusion

The AirPods 5 successfully retain the essence of the original while incorporating modern advancements. The iteration balances affordability with enhanced features suited to users who prefer an open-ear design. Although there is considerable debate regarding their battery life and performance, these earbuds provide substantial value, especially compared to their more costly counterparts in the AirPods Pro 3 series. In summary, for users who find value in an open-ear experience while enjoying modern tech conveniences, the AirPods 5 emerge as a worthwhile investment.

Key Takeaways

• The AirPods 5 are available in two models: standard ($129) and Wireless Charging ($149).
• Battery life is limited to 4 hours for the base model and 5 hours for the Wireless Charging model under ANC.
• Exclusive features for the Wireless Charging model include swipe volume control and a built-in speaker for notifications.
• While audio quality is admirable, users accustomed to in-ear sound may find bass response lacking.
• Excellent microphone performance delivers clarity, especially in quiet environments, though background noise remains a challenge.