Why I still recommend the AirPods Pro 2 in 2026 - especially at this price

Source: ZDNet

Apple released the AirPods Pro 3 in September 2025. They debuted with several upgrades over the Pro 2, including in‑ear heart‑rate monitoring, an upgraded ultra‑wideband chip for device tracking, an additional two hours of continuous battery life, and the first waterproof AirPods.

Also: 4 headphones I swear by (and how I use each pair differently)

However, the AirPods Pro 2 may still be a better option for many users. With the Pro 3 on the market, the Pro 2 are often discounted, ranging from $169 down to $139 during major sales. After wearing the Pro 3 since their release, I revisited the Pro 2, which were my daily driver for several years.

So, is buying them still a good idea in 2026? The short answer is yes, under specific circumstances, and not just because of the sale price. Here’s why.

Apple hasn’t ditched the AirPods Pro 2. Why should you?

A tell‑tale sign that a product is being phased out is incompatibility with the latest software updates. The AirPods Pro 3 share the same H2 audio chip as the Pro 2, which processes advanced software features. Consequently, both models support many of the same features, including:

• Head Gestures
• Hearing Aid mode
• Sleep detection
• Conversation Awareness
• Live Translation
• Adaptive Audio

Also: Own AirPods? I changed 3 settings on my iPhone to significantly improve the audio experience

The major software difference is the Pro 3’s in‑ear heart‑rate monitoring, which integrates natively with the iPhone’s Fitness app. Both earbuds have excellent noise cancellation, but the Pro 3’s redesigned shape provides a tighter seal, enhancing that capability.

Because the H2 chip powers both models, future software upgrades should remain compatible with the AirPods Pro 2. Additionally, the USB‑C version of the Pro 2 was released in 2023, suggesting a few more years of software longevity.

The standout feature may not be for you

Apple markets the Pro 3’s standout feature as its in‑ear heart‑rate sensor, allowing users to forego wrist‑worn fitness trackers. If you already rely on an Apple Watch, Fitbit, or Garmin, you may not need the AirPods to replace that functionality.

Also: AirPods Pro 3 vs. AirPods Pro 2: I compared the two models, and here’s who should upgrade

If you fall into that category, consider upgrading to the Pro 3 when they’re heavily discounted, or keep the Pro 2—especially if you own a USB‑C model purchased within the past 18 months.

Why you should upgrade to the AirPods Pro 3

If you’re still using the first‑generation AirPods Pro or the base‑model AirPods (2nd or 3rd generation), it might be time for an upgrade. The Pro 3 offer the latest features and can be found discounted around $220 during seasonal sales.

ZDNET’s buying advice

I recommend AirPods to anyone with at least one Apple device—especially an iPhone—and even more when they’re $110 off the original price. They work with non‑Apple devices, but functionality is limited. Currently, they’re on sale for $139 at Walmart, which is a strong value for any earbuds, particularly Apple’s.

Also: I’ve tried every iPhone 17 model, and my golden rule for upgrading is changing in 2025

If the Pro 3’s upgrades don’t excite you, the AirPods Pro 2 will still serve you well. My only regret is paying full price for the Pro 2; even at full price, they’re cheaper (and more advanced) than competing wireless earbuds from Sony, Bose, and others. If you plan to pay the full retail price of $250, opt for the AirPods Pro 3.