Apple has released the latest iteration of its AirPods, the AirPods 5, which bring a few notable upgrades over the AirPods 4. These new earbuds are based on the AirPods 4 model with active noise cancellation (ANC), but they feature an open-ear design with a button-style stem and are powered by Apple's H2 chip. The H2 chip supports features like adaptive audio, conversation detection, and Spatial Audio with head movement tracking, offering a more immersive listening experience. Despite the similar design, Apple claims the AirPods 5 offer better water and dust resistance, 1.5 times more effective noise cancellation, and improved sound quality. The top-tier version also includes a swipe-based volume control on the stem and a wireless charging case, all at a lower price than the previous ANC-equipped AirPods 4 (169 euros versus 199 euros). In terms of sound, the AirPods 5 maintain a similar audio profile to the AirPods 4, with a slight boost in bass and a faint shimmer in the high frequencies. The frequency response is balanced and linear, without extreme peaks or irregularities. The noise cancellation improvements are subtle, with Apple pushing the H2 chip’s capabilities to their limits. While low frequencies are slightly less suppressed and high frequencies pass through the mesh, the mid-range performance has improved, particularly in reducing low mid-range sounds. At the listening level, the AirPods 5 offer a slightly more refined sound with better bass control and a more expansive soundstage. However, they may appear slightly louder at the same volume level compared to the AirPods 4 ANC, which could affect direct comparisons. Apple has positioned the AirPods 5 as the best true wireless earbuds in the open format, praised for their spacious soundstage and accurate separation of instruments. However, they are still considered less detailed than the closed-ear AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro 2, especially in the extreme ends of the frequency spectrum. The very low frequencies can feel slightly muffled, and the high frequencies could be more natural. For users who enjoy intense music genres like metal or certain types of electronic music, Apple might benefit from adopting a two-way speaker design for better performance. The AirPods 5 retain the same design, construction, and comfort as the AirPods 4, with identical dimensions, weight, and earbud shape. The charging case now includes an "Apple – AirPods" inscription on the hinge, distinguishing it from the AirPods 4. The earbuds are comfortable for extended use and suitable for sports, though the fit may not be universally stable for all users. A new feature is the volume adjustment on the stem, similar to the AirPods Pro 2. However, the connectivity remains unchanged, using the H2 chip with Bluetooth 5.3 but lacking advanced features like multipoint connectivity, LE Audio, and Android-specific pairing technologies. Battery life is listed at 5 hours with ANC enabled and up to 7 hours without it, with the wireless charging case providing up to 22 hours of total playback. While not exceptional, this is slightly better than the AirPods 4 ANC. The AirPods 5 are targeted at users who prefer open-ear designs, those seeking reliable earbuds for sports, and Apple ecosystem enthusiasts looking for a more affordable option compared to the AirPods Pro 3 or AirPods Max 2. For users prioritizing maximum noise isolation, closed or semi-in-ear models might be more suitable.