In September 2026, Apple introduced the AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case at a price of 169 €, which is 30 € less than the AirPods 4 ANC at its launch. Both the AirPods 5 and the AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case now include active noise cancellation (ANC), a feature that reduces background noise. The version with the wireless charging case includes additional improvements, such as better battery life, volume control, and a charging case that can be used with induction (Qi) chargers. However, the AirPods 5 use a semi-open design that lacks passive isolation, which can affect both sound quality and the effectiveness of ANC. Apple continues to use this design because it is a pioneer in this format and because some users prefer not to use silicone ear tips that go deep into the ear canal. The AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case share the same charging case as the AirPods 4 ANC, which is compact, easy to use, and compatible with Qi chargers. It also includes a mini-speaker for sound-based location alerts. However, the glossy surface of the case is prone to scratches. The design of the AirPods 5 is similar to previous models, with the same weight, dimensions, and white glossy plastic construction. Their IP rating has been upgraded from IP54 to IP57, meaning they can resist being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case are distinguished from the standard AirPods 5 by the inclusion of a wireless charging case. The AirPods 5 retain the same design as earlier models, offering comfort for users who prefer not to use ear tips that go deep into the ear. They also have a more refined acoustic zone compared to semi-open earbuds from Samsung and JBL. However, some users with wider or narrower ear shapes may find them uncomfortable. The AirPods 5 now include volume control, a feature previously only available on AirPods Pro models, which is activated by a vertical swipe on the earbud stem. The AirPods 5 use Apple’s H2 chip and remain part of Apple’s closed ecosystem, which limits their compatibility with non-Apple devices. They support Bluetooth multipoint only between two iPhones and quick pairing with iOS devices. On Android phones, most of their advanced features are not available. The Bluetooth version used is 5.3, which provides a stable and fast connection with iPhones, though latency remains high for gaming. Under iOS 27, the AirPods 5 offer features such as a three-band equalizer, automatic pause when falling asleep, and photo capture via voice commands. Real-time translation requires an iPhone compatible with Apple Intelligence, such as the iPhone 15 Pro or later. Apple claims the AirPods 5 have a new multi-port architecture borrowed from the AirPods Pro 3, which improves airflow and enhances sound quality. The adaptive equalization has also been improved, adjusting tone based on the user’s ear shape and sound leakage. Compared to the AirPods 4, the AirPods 5 slightly improve the 3 kHz to 9 kHz range, making voices more present and reducing a subtle veil effect. The low-mid and 1.5 kHz range contribute to a fuller sound without overwhelming high frequencies. The bass is slightly more extended, but clarity in this range does not match that of in-ear earbuds. The AirPods 5 achieve greater transparency with a subtle increase in energy without affecting their natural sound, showing that there was still room for improvement over the AirPods 4. The ANC system of the AirPods 5 is 1.5 times better than the AirPods 4 ANC, with improved noise reduction around 100 Hz. However, the lack of passive isolation limits its effectiveness compared to models with silicone ear tips. The ANC is effective in moderately noisy environments, helping users focus on their music. The AirPods 5 use two microphones per earbud for calls, offering clearer voice reproduction than the AirPods 4 ANC. Call quality is excellent in urban settings, with no drop in voice level when passing by noisy vehicles. However, ambient noise processing can be too noticeable between silences and speech. The AirPods 5 with ANC have a battery life of 4 hours, while the model with the wireless charging case offers 5 hours on paper. During testing, the AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case lasted 60% of the volume for the promised duration. Despite these improvements, the battery life remains below the market average. The AirPods 5 are considered the best semi-open earbuds on the market, offering balanced sound, improved ANC, and ergonomic design. However, their closed ecosystem and limited battery life are drawbacks. For Android users, alternatives like the Samsung Galaxy Buds4 are recommended.