Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Amazon is offering the second generation Apple AirPods Pro wireless noise-canceling earbuds for only $169.99 shipped, a savings of 32% off and the best price so far this year. Although the new AirPods 4 earbuds are also discounted (the base model is currently priced at $99.99 and the noise-canceling model for $148.99), between the two, the AirPods Pro is still the best earbuds because it offers better sound quality and noise cancelation.
Apple AirPods Pro for $169.99
Apple AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C
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The AirPods Pro is the best-sounding “truly wireless” earbuds for iPhone users thanks to its passively isolating in-ear design combined with excellent active noise cancelation, low-distortion driver and amp, and the Apple H2 chip. It also has useful features like Adaptive Transparency Mode, which lets you better hear your surroundings without removing your earbuds, and Conversation Mode, which automatically enhances the voices of people you’re talking to. The second generation AirPods Pro replaces the Lightning port with a more universal USB Type-C port so you don’t have to mix and match cables, and also includes a MagSafe charging case as standard.
Should you get the AirPods Pro over AirPods 4 with ANC?
The AirPods Pro is a superior earbud, which is why it retails for $70 more than the AirPods 4 ANC. Both feature active noise cancelation, but the AirPods Pro produces better sound quality and more effective noise canceling because of its design. The AirPods 4 ANC is an open-ear style earbud with non-adjustable tips. They’re designed to sit right outside of the ear which – while comfortable – means you get plenty of sound leakage and ambient noise intrusion.
On the other hand, the AirPods Pro is an in-ear style of earbud that sits right inside your ear canal, sealing the passage and passively isolating it from the ambient air. Adjustable tips are included to accomodate different sized ears and ensure you get that proper sealing fit, which is very important to squeeze out the best performance. At this price, the only compelling reason to still go for the AirPods 4 ANC is if you don’t like the intrusive nature of in-ear style earbuds in general.
Eric Song is the IGN commerce manager in charge of finding the best gaming and tech deals every day. When Eric isn’t hunting for deals for other people at work, he’s hunting for deals for himself during his free time.
