New Delhi: Apple’s newly launched AirPods 5 offer impressive sound quality and active noise cancellation (ANC) at a lower price than the premium AirPods Pro 3. However, their open-ear design may not suit everyone, making fit an important consideration before purchasing the wireless earbuds.

With a starting price of Rs 14,900, the AirPods 5 bring several premium audio features to a more affordable segment of Apple’s product range. The earbuds deliver strong bass, clear mids and highs, and noise cancellation that performs well for an open-design product.

The key question for buyers is whether the earbuds fit comfortably and securely. While their sound quality and feature set make them an attractive option, the absence of adjustable silicone tips could be a disadvantage for users whose ears do not suit the design.

Apple AirPods 5 price and features

The AirPods 5 are available in two versions, starting at Rs 14,900. The higher-priced version costs Rs 17,900 and includes a charging case with wireless charging support and a built-in speaker that can chime to help locate the case through Apple’s Find My feature.

The more expensive version also offers a swipe-enabled stem for volume control. Apart from these differences, the two versions offer the same audio experience, making the standard model an option for buyers who do not need the additional charging-case features.

One of the most significant upgrades is the inclusion of active noise cancellation as a standard feature. Apple has brought ANC to the basic AirPods 5 variant, giving users access to noise reduction without having to purchase the more expensive version.

The earbuds also offer spatial audio with personalised head tracking, Conversation Awareness, Transparency mode and water and sweat resistance. They support features such as Live Translation through Siri AI. However, they do not include a heart-rate sensor.

Sound quality is a major strength

Sound quality is one of the strongest aspects of the AirPods 5. The earbuds deliver controlled yet powerful bass despite their compact size, while the mid-range and high frequencies retain the clean, airy presentation associated with Apple’s audio products.

Their performance is particularly impressive considering the starting price of Rs 14,900. The review found that the earbuds deliver sound quality that comes surprisingly close to the more expensive AirPods Pro 3, although the premium model still offers a better overall audio experience.

For buyers looking for wireless earbuds under Rs 15,000, the AirPods 5 stand out for their combination of sound quality and features. They offer a compelling entry point into Apple’s audio ecosystem, particularly for people who already use an iPhone.

Active noise cancellation works well for an open design

Active noise cancellation is another notable improvement. The AirPods 5 do not match the noise-cancelling performance of the AirPods Pro 3, whose in-ear design and silicone tips provide a better seal. Nevertheless, the ANC performance of the AirPods 5 is impressive for earbuds with an open design.

The noise cancellation can reduce external sounds, including office conversations, making the earbuds useful in everyday environments where some background noise can be distracting.

The review suggests that the H2 chip, which also powers the AirPods Pro 3, could contribute to the feature set and performance. However, the difference in noise cancellation is likely influenced by the designs of the two products, particularly the more secure seal offered by the Pro model.

For users who prefer earbuds without silicone tips, the AirPods 5 offer a useful balance between an open design and noise reduction.

Open-ear design may not fit everyone

Despite their audio strengths, the AirPods 5 have one important limitation: fit. They retain Apple’s familiar open-ear design and do not use the silicone tips found on the AirPods Pro models.

Instead of fitting deeper into the ear canal, the earbuds rest around its outer edge. This design can be comfortable for people who dislike the feeling of silicone-tipped earbuds or prefer a less intrusive fit.

However, ear shapes differ from person to person, and the open design does not provide the same flexibility as interchangeable silicone tips. Some users may find the earbuds loose or discover that they do not sit securely in their ears.

During testing, the fit was comfortable and secure in one ear but less satisfactory in the other. The earbuds remained in place during light jogging and brisk walking, yet the fit required repeated adjustment. This highlights how the same design can work well for one ear while proving less suitable for the other.

Unlike the AirPods Pro models, users cannot change the tip size to improve the fit. This makes trying the AirPods 5 before buying particularly important. A secure fit also influences the overall listening experience and the effectiveness of noise cancellation.

Battery life and everyday use

Battery performance is another positive aspect of the AirPods 5. With a few hours of daily use, the earbuds and their charging case can last around a week, according to the review. The duration will vary depending on how frequently they are used and whether ANC remains switched on for extended periods.

The combination of sound quality, noise cancellation and additional features makes the AirPods 5 a capable option for everyday listening. Their value, however, depends on whether the open-ear design suits the user.

Are the Apple AirPods 5 worth buying?

The AirPods 5 are a strong option for iPhone users seeking good sound quality and active noise cancellation without spending as much as they would on Apple’s premium earbuds. Their bass response, clear audio and useful features make them an appealing choice in their price segment.

However, the AirPods Pro 3 remain the more premium option, offering better sound, a more secure fit and stronger noise cancellation. Buyers looking for a less expensive alternative may also consider the older AirPods Pro 2 if they can find them in stock at a discounted price.

Ultimately, the AirPods 5 are worth considering, but fit should be the deciding factor. Trying them in a store before making a purchase can help buyers determine whether the open-ear design provides the comfort and security they need.