Price reduction on AirPods 5

The base model of the AirPods 5 is now available for 134 euros at Cdiscount, a 15 euro discount from Apple's official price of 149 euros. This price cut comes less than two months after the AirPods 5 were released on September 18.

New standard feature

Active noise cancellation has become a standard feature on the entry-level AirPods 5, which previously only included it on higher-end models. Apple claims the new version offers up to 50% more noise reduction compared to the AirPods 4 with noise cancellation.

Design and comfort

The AirPods 5 adopt the open format of the AirPods 4, using no silicone tips, and are designed to exert less pressure in the ear canal. Tests found them to be very comfortable, with excellent fit and no intrusive feel.

Noise cancellation performance

The noise cancellation feature is most effective on low and mid-range voices, such as those from nearby conversations. However, it allows some low and high frequencies to pass through, making it less suitable for environments like airplanes.

Water and dust resistance

The AirPods 5 have improved from IP54 to IP57 certification, meaning they are more resistant to dust, sweat, and water. They can withstand a downpour or sweat from a sports session, but they are not fully waterproof.

Public transport and call quality

In public transport, noise cancellation reduces ambient noise, while the Transparency mode allows users to hear announcements or colleagues without removing the earbuds. The microphones for calls are described as being in the top tier, offering very natural voice quality in quiet environments.

Additional features and limitations

The AirPods 5 include real-time translation via Apple Intelligence and head gestures to interact with Siri. However, they lack wireless charging, volume adjustment on the stem, and have a battery life of 4 hours with noise cancellation enabled.

Wireless version and promotions

The wireless version of the AirPods 5 is sold for 169 euros, offering features like wireless charging and a speaker in the case. In October, Amazon offered this version for 149.95 euros, narrowing the price gap with the base model.

Comparison with other models

In comparisons, the AirPods Pro 3, which use an in-ear format, offer better isolation. The noise-canceling AirPods 4, launched at 199 euros, also used an open format but were more expensive. The AirPods 5 are praised for their comfort and noise cancellation but are less suitable for users needing full isolation.

Recommendation for users

For iPhone users who wear earbuds for long periods and want to reduce ambient noise without the feeling of a plugged ear, the AirPods 5 are a good option. Those who need wireless charging or better isolation may consider the wireless version or the in-ear AirPods Pro 3.