After using the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, 2023 model – MTJV3LL/A) for a few months now, I can honestly say they’ve become an essential part of my daily routine. Whether I’m working, commuting, at the gym, or just unwinding, these earbuds are always close by. As someone who used the first-gen AirPods Pro, I was curious to see if the new version would be worth the upgrade—and spoiler alert: they absolutely are.
Design & Comfort
The design hasn’t changed drastically from the original, but that’s not a bad thing. They still have that sleek, minimalist Apple look in white, and they feel just as premium. The in-ear placement and oval-shaped earpieces make for a secure and comfortable fit. The earbuds are super lightweight, and I’ve worn them for hours without any discomfort—whether I’m on Zoom calls or out for a jog. They’re also water-resistant, which is a big plus if you’re using them for workouts or get caught in the rain.
Sound Quality
This is where the second-gen AirPods Pro really shine. Thanks to the upgraded Apple H2 chip, the sound is noticeably more refined compared to the previous generation. The clarity, depth, and separation between instruments are impressive for something so small. Whether I’m listening to lo-fi beats while working, or deep bass-heavy EDM at the gym, the AirPods Pro 2 deliver every time.
The active noise cancellation (ANC) has also improved significantly. It’s excellent at blocking out ambient noise—perfect for crowded places or flights. Transparency Mode is another standout; it lets in just enough outside sound to stay aware of your surroundings without taking the buds out. It feels natural, not robotic or tinny like some competitors.
Controls & Siri Integration
The call control, volume control, media control, noise control, and Siri voice control are responsive and easy to use—tap to pause or skip, swipe for volume, or press and hold to switch between noise-canceling and transparency modes. What really makes life easier is the Siri integration. Whether I need to reply to a message, change the song, or check the weather, a quick “Hey Siri” does the trick without ever touching my phone.
Battery Life & Charging
Battery life clocks in at about 6 hours per charge, which has been accurate in my experience. With the wireless charging case, you get up to 30 hours in total. The new case charges via USB-C cable, which I appreciate since most of my devices are moving that way. And yes—it supports wireless charging as well.
Versatility & Compatibility
Another huge plus is the seamless connection across my Apple devices via Bluetooth and the H2 chip—iPhone, MacBook, and iPad. They also pair easily with other devices like gaming consoles, laptops, desktops, tablets, and cellphones, though of course, you lose some of the smart features like Siri and auto-switching.
Whether I’m on a call, gaming, watching Netflix, or even recording voice notes, the AirPods Pro 2 handle it all. The built-in microphone picks up my voice clearly, even in noisy environments, which is a win for work meetings and phone calls alike.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, 2023) are a near-perfect blend of design, comfort, and smart features. They’re not cheap, but if you’re someone who values great audio, seamless integration, and top-tier noise cancellation, they’re worth every penny.
I’ve tried a lot of wireless earbuds over the years, and the AirPods Pro 2 still come out on top for me. Apple didn’t just refine the product—they polished the experience. It’s one of those rare upgrades that actually feels worth it.