Top Apple Headphones of 2023

In the world of audio technology, Apple has made a significant impact with its lineup of headphones. Each iteration strives to deliver impressive sound quality, sleek design, and convenient features.

It's an opportune time to evaluate the top Apple headphones available and determine which ones stand out from the crowd. From the wireless convenience of AirPods to the immersive experience of over-ear options, Apple offers a diverse range of headphones to cater to different preferences.

Join us as we delve into the top Apple headphones of 2023 and explore their unique features and performance.

The Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones deliver an exceptional listening experience with top-notch sound quality, earning a 4.5 out of 5 rating.

– Active Noise Cancellation to block out background noise– 20 hours of listening time with a single charge– Adaptive EQ that adjusts audio based on the fit and seal of the ear cushions

The Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are perfect for audiophiles seeking an immersive audio experience thanks to their remarkable sound quality and Active Noise Cancellation.

The headphones offer a comfortable fit with memory foam ear cushions and customizable audio settings enabled by Adaptive EQ. The impressive 20-hour battery life ensures you can enjoy listening to music or catching up on your favorite podcasts throughout the day.

The Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are quite expensive compared to other options available in the market, which might deter some potential buyers.

Additionally, their compatibility is limited mostly to Apple devices, meaning Android and other OS users might not have a seamless user experience.

Lastly, the headphones’ large size and lack of a foldable design make them inconvenient to carry around when on the go.

– Excellent sound quality– Active Noise Cancellation for an immersive audio experience– Adaptive EQ for personalized audio settings– Comfortable memory foam ear cushions– Long battery life

– Expensive price point– Limited compatibility with non-Apple devices– Bulky and not easily portable

The Apple EarPods Headphones with Lightning Connector offers a fantastic listening experience with its ergonomic design, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating.

– Ergonomic design that fits various ear shapes and sizes– Lightning connector for seamless compatibility with Apple devices– Built-in remote for easy control of volume and playback

The Apple EarPods Headphones with Lightning Connector stand out for their comfortable fit and excellent audio quality. They are specifically designed to work flawlessly with your Apple devices, making them an obvious choice for iPhone and iPad users. The built-in remote allows quick and convenient control of volume levels and playback without reaching for your device. With their stylish and minimalistic design, these headphones sound great and look great too.

People who do not possess Apple devices with a lightning port may find these headphones incompatible or may require an additional adapter to use them. Additionally, these wired headphones might not be suitable for those who prefer the freedom and flexibility of wireless options. There is also a lack of noise cancellation, which might make them less effective in noisy environments.

– Comfortable and ergonomic design– Seamless compatibility with Apple devices– High-quality sound and audio performance– Stylish appearance– Convenient built-in remote

– Limited compatibility with non-Apple devices– Wired design may be less appealing to some– Lack of noise cancellation technology

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) delivers astounding sound quality and noise-cancellation in a compact and sleek design, earning a 4.5 out of 5 rating.

• Active Noise Cancellation technology• Customizable fit with three sizes of silicone tips• Up to 4.5 hours of listening time with a single charge (up to 24 hours with the charging case)

The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) has top-of-the-line active noise cancellation, making them great for use in noisy environments or during travel. In addition, they offer a customizable and comfortable fit with three different silicone tip sizes and provide excellent sound quality for both music and phone calls. With their seamless integration with Apple devices such as iPhones and iPads, users will enjoy a hassle-free and enjoyable listening experience.

On the other hand, reasons to avoid the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) may include their higher price point as compared to other wireless earbuds on the market, which could deter more budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, while respectable, the battery life of 4.5 hours per charge falls shorter than some competing products that offer longer usage on a single charge. Lastly, users of non-Apple devices may find the integration and compatibility features less optimized for their gadgets.

• Excellent sound quality• Impressive active noise cancellation• Comfortable and customizable fit• Seamless integration with Apple devices

• Higher price point compared to other wireless earbuds• Battery life could be longer• Less optimized compatibility with non-Apple devices

The Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) are a sleek and reliable true wireless earbuds option, earning a strong 4.5 out of 5 stars rating.

– Up to 5 hours of listening time and up to 3 hours of talk time on a single charge– In-built Siri voice recognition for hands-free operation– H1 chip for faster wireless connection and reduced latency

The Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) offers top-quality sound, easy pairing with Apple devices, and a stylish design. The H1 chip ensures a stable wireless connection and impressive battery life, making these earbuds perfect for everyday use.

The addition of Siri voice recognition further enhances usability, allowing users to control music playback, manage phone calls, and access other handy features all without touching their device. Additionally, the charging case provides multiple charges for up to 24 hours of combined listening time, making them an excellent choice for people on-the-go.

While the Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) deliver great performance, they may not suit everyone, particularly those looking for a more customizable fit or noise-cancellation features. They rely on a one-size-fits-all design that may not provide adequate comfort for all ear shapes and sizes, and they do not offer any built-in noise-cancellation capabilities, which can be a deal-breaker for users in noisy environments. Furthermore, their premium price tag may be prohibitive for more budget-conscious consumers.

– Excellent sound quality– Easy pairing with Apple devices– Siri voice recognition for hands-free control– H1 chip provides faster wireless connection and improved battery life– Stylish design

– One-size-fits-all design may not suit all users– No built-in noise-cancellation feature– Premium price tag

The Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) offer an exceptional wireless audio experience with industry-leading features, earning a solid 4.5 stars out of 5.

• Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking• Up to 6 hours of listening time per charge (30 hours with charging case)• Sweat and water-resistant (IPX4 rating)

The 3rd Generation Apple AirPods are a must-buy for anyone seeking an elevated audio experience in a sleek package. Equipped with spatial audio and dynamic head tracking, these AirPods deliver an immersive, cinematic sound regardless of your head movements.

With an impressive battery life of up to 6 hours per charge (and up to 30 hours with the case), you can enjoy your favorite tunes on-the-go. The sweat and water-resistant design allows for usage during workouts or rainy weather, making them a versatile companion for your active lifestyle.

Despite the numerous advantages of the 3rd Generation Apple AirPods, they may not be the best fit for those on a tight budget due to their premium price tag. Furthermore, they lack active noise cancellation, a feature buyers might desire for optimized noise isolation. Lastly, their universal fit might not suit everyone perfectly, leading to potential discomfort during extended usage.

• High-quality spatial audio• Impressive battery life• Sweat and water-resistant• Easy setup and automatic switching between Apple devices

• Premium price• No active noise cancellation• Universal fit might not suit everyone

The Powerbeats High-Performance Wireless Earbuds offer superior sound quality, comfort, and durability for an active lifestyle, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars.

– Up to 15 hours of listening time– Sweat and water-resistant design– Apple H1 headphone chip for enhanced connectivity

The Powerbeats High-Performance Wireless Earbuds are perfect for those who are always on the move or working out, as they provide up to 15 hours of listening time, ensuring you’ll never run out of tunes during a long workout or commute. The sweat and water-resistant design means you won't have to worry about damaging your earbuds in rainy or sweaty conditions.

Thanks to the Apple H1 headphone chip, these earbuds offer seamless pairing with your Apple devices and faster wireless connection while maintaining excellent sound quality.

While the Powerbeats High-Performance Wireless Earbuds offer many great features, they may not be suitable for people looking for a budget-friendly option, as they come with a higher price tag than other earbuds on the market. Additionally, users who prefer true wireless earbuds without a connecting wire may not find them as convenient or comfortable to wear during their workout sessions.

– Exceptional sound quality for an immersive listening experience– Long-lasting battery life allows for extended usage– Comfortable and secure fit, ideal for workouts and daily use– Sweat and water-resistant design protects against damage from moisture– Seamless pairing and connectivity with Apple devices

– Pricier than other earbuds in the market– Not true wireless, as they have a connecting wire between the earbuds

The Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds offers an impressive sound quality and a secure fit, earning a rating of 4 out of 5.

– Up to 9 hours of listening time (24 hours with charging case).– Sweat & water-resistant earbuds.– Apple H1 chip for faster connectivity and improved battery life.

The Powerbeats Pro offers an exceptional audio experience thanks to its well-balanced sound and noise-isolation design. With a comfortable and secure fit, these earbuds are perfect for active users as they are sweat and water-resistant, ensuring they stay put during intense workouts.

With the Apple H1 chip, quick pairing, and long battery life, these earbuds are an excellent choice for those looking for high-quality wireless earbuds that cater to an active lifestyle.

While the Powerbeats Pro offers many impressive features, the price might be a stumbling block for some as more affordable options are available in the market.

Additionally, the charging case can be bulky and not as pocket-friendly compared to other earbuds, making it less convenient for those constantly on the go. Lastly, the design may not be to everyone's taste; some may prefer a less conspicuous or minimalist aesthetic.

– Impressive sound quality with noise isolation.– Comfortable and secure fit for active users.– Sweat and water-resistant.– Apple H1 chip for faster connectivity and improved battery life.

– High price point compared to some competitors.– Bulky charging case.– Design may not suit everyone's taste.

The Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones offer a sleek and stylish design, with an impressive battery life, resulting in a solid 4 out of 5 rating.

– 40 hours of battery life– Fast Fuel 5-minute charge for 3 hours of playback– Apple W1 chip for seamless connectivity

These headphones are perfect for music lovers who are constantly on the go due to their impressive battery life and fast-charging capabilities. The Apple W1 chip makes them highly compatible with Apple devices, allowing for seamless pairing and switching between iCloud-registered devices.

Furthermore, these headphones deliver the signature Beats sound quality and bass, with comfortable on-ear cushions that provide an immersive audio experience.

On the other hand, users who prioritize sound quality above all else may find these headphones lacking in mid-range and treble performance compared to high-end wireless headphones. Additionally, their on-ear design may not be as comfortable for extended listening periods as over-ear options and may not provide the same level of noise isolation.

– Impressive battery life for extended use– Fast Fuel technology for quick charging– Apple W1 chip for easy connectivity– Comfortable on-ear cushions

– Sound quality may not be as balanced compared to other high-end headphones– On-ear design less comfortable for extended periods of use– Inadequate noise isolation compared to over-ear designs

The Beats EP Wired On-Ear Headphones offer excellent sound quality and a sleek design, earning a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5.

– Frequency response: 20Hz – 22kHz– Weight: 181 grams– Cable length: 1.2 meters

The Beats EP Wired On-Ear Headphones are a great investment for anyone looking for high-quality audio and style. These headphones deliver clear, well-balanced sound and powerful bass, making them perfect for music enthusiasts and everyday use.

The lightweight and comfortable design ensures long listening sessions without any discomfort, and the durable frame guarantees lasting durability. Additionally, the inline remote and built-in microphone makes it easy to control your music and take calls on-the-go.

While the Beats EP Wired On-Ear Headphones boast many impressive features, there are a few drawbacks to consider. As wired headphones, they may not be the best choice for users who prefer wireless connectivity and freedom from cables.

Furthermore, they lack active noise cancellation, which could be a deal-breaker for those who frequently use their headphones in noisy environments. Lastly, the price tag may not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers, as there are more affordable options with similar features on the market.

– Clear and well-balanced sound– Stylish and durable design– Lightweight and comfortable– Inline remote and built-in microphone

– Requires a wired connection– No active noise cancellation– Potentially pricey compared to competitors

The Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones offer a stylish design and impressive audio performance, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating.

– Up to 22 hours of battery life with ANC and up to 40 hours without ANC.– Apple W1 chip for easy setup and seamless switching between Apple devices.– Pure Adaptive Noise Cancelling (Pure ANC) technology for active noise cancellation.

The Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones are an excellent option for both style-conscious consumers and audiophiles alike. With up to 22 hours of battery life with ANC and 40 hours without, they provide long-lasting listening on a single charge. The added benefit of the Apple W1 chip allows for easy pairing and seamless switching between Apple devices. At the same time, the Pure Adaptive Noise Cancelling (Pure ANC) technology effectively blocks out external noise for an immersive audio experience.

If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Beats Studio3 may not be the best choice as they come with a premium price tag. Additionally, some users have reported discomfort when wearing headphones for long periods, and Android users may not benefit as much from the Apple W1 chip's features.

– Impressive battery life– Stylish design– Apple W1 chip for seamless device integration– Pure Adaptive Noise Cancelling technology

– Premium price– Potential discomfort during extended wear– Limited benefits for non-Apple users

Q: Are Apple headphones compatible with non-Apple devices?

A: Yes, Apple headphones, particularly the wireless models, can be paired with non-Apple devices that support Bluetooth connectivity. However, certain features and functionalities may be optimized for use with Apple devices.

Q: Do all Apple headphones support noise cancellation?

A: No, not all Apple headphones offer noise cancellation. The AirPods Max and Beats Studio3 are the primary models with active noise-cancellation technology, providing an immersive and distraction-free listening experience.

Q: Can I use Apple headphones during workouts or sports activities?

A: Yes, Apple offers fitness-focused options like the Powerbeats and Powerbeats Pro, which are designed to withstand rigorous workouts and sports activities. These headphones provide a secure fit and are sweat and water-resistant.

Q: How long does the battery last on Apple headphones?

A: The battery life varies depending on the specific model. For example, the AirPods Max can deliver up to 20 hours of listening time with active noise cancellation enabled. The AirPods Pro and Powerbeats Pro offer around 4.5 to 5 hours of listening time, with additional charges provided by the charging case.

Q: Can I use Siri with Apple headphones?

A: Yes, Apple headphones, including AirPods and Powerbeats, are integrated with Siri functionality. By activating Siri through voice commands or touch gestures, users can control music playback, make calls, adjust volume, and access various Siri features hands-free.

Q: Are there any differences between the generations of AirPods?

A: Yes, each generation of AirPods brings improvements in terms of sound quality, battery life, connectivity, and features. For example, the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) introduced active noise cancellation and a more customizable fit compared to the AirPods (2nd Generation). The AirPods (3rd Generation) feature a redesigned look and improved audio performance.

Q: Can I use Apple headphones with wired connections?

A: Yes, some Apple headphones, like the Beats EP and the AirPods Max, offer the option for a wired connection using a 3.5mm or Lightning cable. This can be useful when conserving battery or when using the headphones with devices that do not support Bluetooth.

Q: Are Apple headphones compatible with Apple's spatial audio technology?

A: Yes, Apple headphones that support iOS 14 or later, such as AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, are compatible with Apple's spatial audio technology. This feature provides a three-dimensional audio experience, simulating surround sound for a more immersive listening experience.

This array of exceptional Apple headphones exemplifies the company's commitment to innovation and audio excellence. From the powerful sound of the AirPods Max to the compact convenience of the AirPods Pro, there is a headphone model to suit every listener's needs.

The second-generation AirPods and the recently released AirPods (3rd Generation) offer an ideal balance between quality and affordability. Meanwhile, the Beats lineup, including Powerbeats and Beats Studio3, provides alternatives for those seeking a more bass-driven or noise-canceling experience.

Apple remains at the forefront of the headphone market as technology advances, consistently refining its offerings and setting new standards. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a frequent traveler, or someone who simply enjoys a premium audio experience, Apple headphones have undoubtedly secured their place as some of the best in the industry.

Inner Image and Featured Image Credits: From the Apple Headphone Lineup on Amazon; Thank you!

Deanna is the Managing Editor at ReadWrite. Previously she worked as the Editor in Chief for Startup Grind and has over 20+ years of experience in content management and content development.