Introduction
Apple AirPods have been a game-changer in the audio industry since their debut in 2016. They are one of the trendiest and most convenient accessories to own due to their wireless design, quality sound, and user-friendly interface. However, with multiple AirPods models released over the years, it can be challenging to differentiate between them.
Identifying which AirPods you have is crucial in getting the best out of your device, from accessing certain features to getting the right accessories, and avoiding unnecessary compatibility issues. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to tell which AirPods you have and the differences between the models.
A Beginner’s Guide to Identifying AirPods Models
AirPods are wireless earbuds designed and developed by Apple Inc. Since 2016, Apple has released three models of AirPods with different features, physical characteristics, and price range. To tell which AirPod model you have, you need to know the different aspects of each model.
The Original AirPods: These were the first AirPods released in 2016 and characterized by a slight stem protruding from the earbud. They come with a charging case, which charges them on the go. The original AirPods do not have active noise cancellation and are significantly cheaper than the subsequent models.
AirPods 2nd Generation: These were launched in 2019 and come with enhanced features such as voice-activated Siri, wireless charging case, improved battery life, and H1 chip. They have the same physical design as the first-generation earbuds, but the LED light location is different.
AirPods Pro: The AirPods Pro is the most recent model of Apple’s wireless earbuds launched in 2019. They are designed to sit comfortably in your ear, come with active noise cancellation, and have an oval-shaped body. The charging case is also different, featuring a shorter and wider design compared to their predecessors.
Mastering the Art of Spotting Your AirPods: Differentiating Between the Generations
Are you wondering whether you have the original AirPods or the AirPods 2nd Generation? Here are some ways to tell the difference between the two models:
- The LED Light: The original AirPods’ LED light is situated on the front of the charging case. The LED light on the AirPods 2nd Generation is on the top of the charging case.
- Identification Number: The original AirPods model number is A1523 and is not seen on the earbuds themselves but only on the charging case. In contrast, the AirPods 2nd Generation has model numbers A2031 and A2032, which are also seen on the earbuds.
- Compatibility: The AirPods 2nd Generation has better compatibility with Apple devices than the original. It has a more stable and stronger wireless connection with less delay, making it perfect for online calls, gaming, and music streaming.
To determine if you have the AirPods Pro, look out for the following features:
- Oval-shaped Body: Unlike the previous models, the AirPods Pro have an oval-shaped body that fits comfortably in your ears.
- Larger Case: The charging case for the AirPods Pro is shorter and wider compared to the previous case designs.
- No Stem: The AirPods Pro are stemless, which sets them apart from the other AirPod models.
AirPods 101: A Step-by-Step Guide to Determining Which Model You Own
The easiest way to tell which AirPods model you have is to check the model number and serial number. Here are the steps to follow:
- Locate your AirPods charging case.
- Check the back of the charging case. You should see a serial and model number engraved on it.
- Compare the model and serial numbers to the Apple website’s AirPods model chart to determine which AirPods you have.
If you can’t read the serial number engraved on the case, connect your AirPods to your iOS device, open the Settings app, then tap General > About > AirPods. From there, you can view the model name and number.
How to Tell Which AirPods You Have: A Quick and Easy Guide
If you are unsure which model of AirPods you have and need a simple guide to identify them, follow these simple steps:
- Examine the physical appearance of your AirPods. Look out for the stem, case’s design, and LED light location.
- Check which firmware your AirPods have. You can do this under the Settings app on your iOS device.
- If you’re still unsure, you can check the serial number on the back of the charging case and compare it with the serial numbers on Apple’s website.
Don’t Get Confused: Learning to Distinguish Between AirPods 1, 2, and Pro
For a more detailed comparison between the AirPods models, here is a side-by-side comparison:
| Features | Original AirPods | AirPods 2nd Generation | AirPods Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | Stem Protruding from the Earbud | Stem Protruding from the Earbud | Stemless with An Oval-shaped Body |
| Noise Cancellation | No | No | Yes |
| Charging Case Design | Rectangular and Long | Rectangular and Long | Shorter and Wider |
| LED Light Location | Front of the Charging Case | Top of the Charging Case | No LED light on the earbuds, Charging case LED is outside |
It’s essential to note that despite the differences, all the AirPods models offer fantastic sound quality and ease of use. You can use them for making calls, listening to music, and much more. By identifying the model, you can take full advantage of the features and settings that come with each product.
Solving AirPods Identity Crisis: Tips to Recognize Your Earbuds Model Instantly
Once you determine which AirPods model you have, it’s essential to keep them labeled to avoid confusion with other people or different AirPods models. Here are some tips to recognize your earbuds model instantly:
- Create a Custom Name: You can give your AirPods a unique name under the Bluetooth settings on your iPhone or iPad. You can include the generation number or color to tell them apart easily.
- Personalize Your Charging Case: You can get a customized case covering for your charging case, which not only looks stylish but also helps to identify them even when they are placed among similar-looking earbuds cases.
- Mark Them Using a Marker: Another way to tell your AirPods apart is by using a permanent marker to write your initials or adding color to the stem or case to differentiate them quickly.
Conclusion
Knowing how to tell which AirPods model you have is essential in understanding how to optimize the use of your audio device. By following our comprehensive guide, you can differentiate between the original AirPods, AirPods 2nd Generation, and AirPods Pro. It’s important to note that while each version offers unique features, all of them are incredibly user-friendly and provide a top-quality audio experience.
So, take the time to check the model number and serial number and make sure you label your AirPods to avoid confusing them with others. By doing this, you can take full advantage of the many features and settings that come with each AirPods model.