So, you're eyeing a set of Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen but wondering if they still hold up in a world of newer tech. It’s a smart question, especially when considering the "Is AirPods Pro 1st Gen Still Worth Buying? (Value & Price Guide)" conundrum. The market is flooded with options, and Apple has even released a successor. Yet, the original AirPods Pro often pop up at attractive price points, making them a compelling consideration for many. Let's cut through the noise and figure out if these veteran earbuds still deserve a spot in your pocket.
At a Glance: AirPods Pro (1st Gen) in Today's Market
- Still Great for Audio: Delivers excellent sound quality, especially for their age.
- ANC & Transparency are Solid: Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode remain highly effective.
- Seamless Apple Integration: Effortless pairing and switching within the Apple ecosystem.
- Price is Key: Their biggest draw now is often their significantly lower price compared to newer models.
- Battery Life is Decent: Expect 4-5 hours on a charge with ANC, with the case offering 24 hours total.
- Watch for Used Condition: Buying pre-owned requires careful inspection of battery health and potential past issues.
- Best for Budget-Conscious: An excellent choice for those wanting premium features without the premium price tag.
The Enduring Appeal: What Made Them Great?
When the AirPods Pro (1st Gen) launched, they were a game-changer. Finally, Apple delivered earbuds with active noise cancellation (ANC), a feature many had craved. Beyond just blocking out the world, they introduced Transparency Mode, allowing you to hear your surroundings without removing your buds—a genuine innovation for safety and convenience. Their sleek, compact design, coupled with customizable silicone tips, offered a comfort and fit that surpassed the standard AirPods.
These aren't just about features on a spec sheet; they’re about the experience. The way they seamlessly connected to your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, the intuitive controls, and the surprisingly robust audio quality all contributed to a product that felt, well, pro. Even today, these foundational elements hold up remarkably well, making the question of their current value far from a simple "no."
Peeling Back the Layers: Core Features Revisited
Let's dive into the specifics of what the AirPods Pro 1st Gen offer, and how these features stack up in the current tech landscape.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): A Quiet Retreat
The ANC on the 1st Gen AirPods Pro was, and largely still is, very impressive for in-ear headphones. It effectively mutes low-frequency ambient sounds – think airplane cabin hum, bus engines, or the whir of an office server room. While not on par with the absolute best over-ear headphones, for earbuds, they do a stellar job.
- Real-world impact: Imagine commuting on a busy train. The ANC doesn't completely silence the world, but it transforms a jarring environment into a much calmer one, allowing your music, podcast, or audiobook to take center stage. For focused work or peaceful listening, this feature alone justifies a look, especially if you're sensitive to background distractions.
Transparency Mode: Hearing What Matters
Equally groundbreaking was Transparency Mode. With a simple squeeze of the stem, the AirPods Pro use their external microphones to pipe in ambient sound, making it feel as if you’re not wearing earbuds at all. This is invaluable for:
- Situational awareness: Walking near traffic, crossing the street, or jogging.
- Quick conversations: Ordering a coffee, chatting with a colleague, or hearing an announcement without fumbling with your earbuds.
- Safety: Being aware of your surroundings in unfamiliar places.
This feature remains top-tier, often rivaling or even surpassing the transparency modes on some newer, more expensive competitors.
Audio Quality: Crisp, Clear, and Balanced
The AirPods Pro (1st Gen) deliver a sound profile that’s clear, well-balanced, and enjoyable for a wide range of music genres. They offer:
- Good bass response: Not overly boomy, but present enough to give music a satisfying foundation.
- Clear mids: Vocals and instruments come through distinctly.
- Crisp highs: Avoids harshness, offering detail without fatigue.
While audiophiles might opt for wired setups or higher-end wireless options, for the average listener seeking a premium experience on the go, the audio quality of the 1st Gen Pro is more than sufficient. They stand shoulder-to-shoulder with many modern earbuds in their price bracket and often surpass cheaper alternatives.
Seamless Connectivity & Siri Integration: The Apple Advantage
One of Apple's undeniable strengths is its ecosystem. The AirPods Pro (1st Gen) exemplify this:
- Instant Pairing: Open the case near an iPhone, and they're connected.
- Automatic Switching: Seamlessly switch between your iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch.
- Siri Integration: "Hey Siri" support for hands-free control, calls, directions, and more.
- Bluetooth Universal: While optimized for Apple, they connect via standard Bluetooth to Android phones, Windows PCs, and other devices, albeit without the advanced features like automatic switching or Spatial Audio.
This "it just works" experience is a significant part of the AirPods Pro's value proposition and hasn't diminished with age.
Battery Life: Holding Their Own (Mostly)
The 1st Gen AirPods Pro offer:
- 4-5 hours of listening time on a single charge with Active Noise Cancellation or Transparency Mode enabled.
- Up to 24 hours of total listening time with the charging case.
In 2024, 4-5 hours is still respectable for ANC earbuds, especially for commutes, workouts, or short work sessions. The case provides multiple recharges, making them suitable for all-day use. However, like all lithium-ion batteries, those in a pre-owned 1st Gen unit will have degraded over time. Expect slightly less than original battery life if buying used. It's a trade-off for the lower price, but often an acceptable one.
Reliability & Design: A Note on Production Batches
The AirPods Pro (1st Gen) feature a sleek, compact design with customizable silicone tips in three sizes, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for most users. This design remains ergonomic and practical.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that early production batches of the 1st Gen AirPods Pro did face reported issues, particularly concerning crackling audio, ANC degradation, and battery drain. Apple addressed many of these with firmware updates and, in some cases, a service program. However, if you're considering a used pair, it's generally accepted that later production batches are more reliable. While it's difficult to verify the exact production date of a used pair, opting for units that appear well-maintained and from reputable sellers can mitigate some of this risk.
The Price Factor: Where Do They Stand Now?
This is where the 1st Gen AirPods Pro truly shine in 2024. Their original retail price was $249, but today, you can find them for significantly less.
- New (Rare, but Possible): Occasionally, you might find new-in-box units from third-party retailers for around $150-$180, sometimes even less during sales. These typically come with Apple's one-year warranty, offering peace of mind.
- Refurbished: Reputable refurbishers often sell them for $100-$140. These usually come with their own limited warranties.
- Used: On platforms like eBay, Swappa, or Facebook Marketplace, prices can range from $70-$120, depending heavily on condition and battery health. This is where the real value proposition lies for budget-conscious buyers, but it also comes with the most risk.
Comparing this to the AirPods Pro 2nd Gen, which retail for $249 and rarely dip below $200-$220, the 1st Gen offers a substantial saving for a very similar core experience.
Who Are the AirPods Pro (1st Gen) For? (And Who Should Pass?)
You Should Consider Them If:
- You're on a tight budget: This is the primary driver. You want premium features without the premium price tag.
- You're deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem: The seamless integration is a major perk.
- ANC and Transparency are must-haves: You need effective noise blocking and situational awareness.
- You value comfort and fit: The customizable tips provide a superior fit compared to standard AirPods.
- You primarily listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks: The audio quality is excellent for general listening.
- You need reliable earbuds for calls: Their microphone quality is good.
You Should Probably Pass If:
- You demand the absolute latest and greatest: The 2nd Gen offers improved ANC, better battery life, and USB-C.
- You're an audiophile chasing peak sound quality: There are higher-fidelity options (though often more expensive or wired).
- You need the longest possible battery life: Newer models or larger headphones will offer more.
- You're uncomfortable buying used tech: The best deals are often on pre-owned units, which carry inherent risks.
- You need "Find My Precision Tracking" (U1 chip): Only available on 2nd Gen AirPods Pro.
Pros and Cons of Buying in 2024/2025
Let’s weigh the specific advantages and disadvantages of picking up a 1st Gen AirPods Pro today.
The Upsides (Pros)
- Unbeatable Value: For the features they offer, their current street price is hard to beat. You're getting premium Apple ANC and Transparency at a fraction of the original cost.
- Excellent Core Features: ANC, Transparency, and sound quality are still highly competitive. These aren't "outdated" features by any means.
- Compact & Comfortable: The design is still top-notch for portability and in-ear comfort.
- Robust Apple Ecosystem Integration: Enjoy all the benefits of effortless pairing and switching across your Apple devices.
- Long-Term Software Support: Apple is typically good about supporting older devices with software updates, ensuring compatibility for years to come.
The Downsides (Cons)
- Battery Degradation (Especially Used): This is the biggest practical concern. A used pair's battery might not last as long as new, and battery replacement isn't straightforward or cheap.
- Older Technology: While still good, the ANC and H1 chip aren't as advanced as the H2 chip in the 2nd Gen, which offers even better noise cancellation and Spatial Audio features.
- Potential for Legacy Issues: While later batches were more reliable, some units might still develop the crackling sound or ANC issues reported in earlier production runs.
- No USB-C: The charging case uses Lightning, which might be a slight inconvenience if all your other Apple devices have transitioned to USB-C.
- Fewer Advanced Features: Missing some newer bells and whistles like Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Find My with Precision Tracking found in the 2nd Gen.
Smart Buying Guide: What to Check Before You Buy (Especially Used)
If you decide the 1st Gen AirPods Pro are for you, particularly if you're buying used, a little caution goes a long way.
- Inspect Physical Condition:
- Case: Look for deep scratches, cracks, or signs of water damage (e.g., discoloration inside the charging port).
- Earbuds: Check for debris in the speaker grilles, bent charging contacts, or general wear.
- Ear Tips: Ensure they come with all three sizes of silicone tips, and that they aren't torn or heavily soiled.
- Test Battery Life:
- Ask the seller for screenshots of battery health (if available on iOS).
- If meeting in person, test them: charge fully, then play music at a moderate volume for 30 minutes with ANC on. See how much battery percentage drops. A 10-15% drop might indicate good health; more could signal degradation.
- Check Functionality:
- Pairing: Does it pair easily with an iPhone?
- ANC/Transparency: Toggle these modes. Do they work? Is there any static, crackling, or imbalance between the left and right earbud? This is crucial for the 1st Gen.
- Audio Quality: Listen to some music. Is the sound clear and balanced?
- Microphone: Make a quick call or voice memo to test the microphone.
- Controls: Test the force sensors on the stems (play/pause, skip, ANC toggle).
- Verify Authenticity: There are many convincing fakes.
- Serial Number: Check the serial number on Apple's coverage checker website. If it shows "This device has been replaced," or no information, be wary.
- Packaging: If buying new/sealed, examine the packaging carefully for misprints, poor quality, or incorrect fonts.
- Software: Genuine AirPods Pro will show up with detailed settings in your iPhone's Bluetooth menu (tap the 'i' icon). Fakes often lack this.
- Seller Reputation: Buy from reputable sellers with good reviews and a clear return policy. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
Alternatives to Consider: A Quick Look Around
While this guide focuses on the 1st Gen AirPods Pro, it's worth a brief mention of alternatives to help contextualize their value.
- AirPods Pro (2nd Gen): If your budget allows, these offer superior ANC, longer battery life, a U1 chip for precise Find My tracking, and Adaptive Audio. They are the direct upgrade.
- AirPods (3rd Gen): Lacks ANC but offers a more open fit, spatial audio, and improved sound over standard 2nd Gen AirPods. A different experience entirely.
- Other Brands (Sony, Bose, Samsung): Brands like Sony (WF-1000XM4/5), Bose (QuietComfort Earbuds), and Samsung (Galaxy Buds Pro/2 Pro) offer excellent noise cancellation, audio quality, and features for Android users, often at competitive prices. They are strong competitors if you're not locked into the Apple ecosystem.
- Cheaper ANC Earbuds: Many brands now offer ANC earbuds in the sub-$100 range. While their ANC and audio quality might not match Apple's, they can be a viable option for extreme budget constraints.
The 1st Gen AirPods Pro carve out a unique niche: offering a premium Apple experience at a mid-range price point, often outperforming many budget ANC options while undercutting newer flagship models.
Maintenance and Longevity Tips
To ensure your 1st Gen AirPods Pro last as long as possible, whether new or used, follow these tips:
- Keep Them Clean: Regularly wipe down the earbuds and case with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Use a dry cotton swab to gently clean the speaker grilles and charging contacts. Avoid liquids.
- Charge Smartly: While modern batteries manage charging well, try not to leave them fully discharged for long periods. Also, avoid constantly charging from 80% to 100%; aim for a middle ground when possible.
- Protect the Case: The charging case is crucial. A silicon cover can protect it from scratches and drops.
- Store Properly: When not in use, keep them in their charging case to protect them and maintain battery health.
- Firmware Updates: Always keep your AirPods Pro firmware updated through your iPhone. Apple often releases performance improvements, bug fixes, and even new features via these updates.
Addressing Common Concerns & Misconceptions
"Will the 1st Gen AirPods Pro become obsolete soon?"
Highly unlikely for core functionality. Apple provides long-term software support. While they won't get new hardware-dependent features of the 2nd Gen, their existing features (ANC, Transparency, audio) will continue to work perfectly for many years.
"Is the ANC still good enough compared to newer models?"
Yes, absolutely. While the 2nd Gen AirPods Pro have objectively better ANC, the 1st Gen still offers a very effective noise-cancelling experience that is more than sufficient for most users and environments. The difference is noticeable but not always a deal-breaker.
"What about the crackling sound issue I heard about?"
This was a known issue with early production batches of the 1st Gen AirPods Pro. Apple offered a service program for affected units. If you're buying a used pair, test the ANC and transparency modes carefully for any crackling or static. Later production units are generally much more reliable.
"Can I replace the battery if it degrades?"
Technically possible, but not economically practical for most. Apple doesn't offer user-replaceable batteries for AirPods. A service replacement from Apple can be costly, often approaching the price of a used pair of 1st Gen AirPods Pro themselves. This is why battery health is a critical factor when buying used.
"Do they support Spatial Audio?"
Yes, the 1st Gen AirPods Pro support dynamic head tracking Spatial Audio for compatible content, providing an immersive, theater-like experience with your iPhone or iPad. This feature remains a fantastic bonus for movie and TV show enthusiasts.
The Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?
In short, yes, the AirPods Pro (1st Gen) are still absolutely worth buying in 2024 for many people, especially at the right price.
Their value proposition today isn't about being the cutting edge, but about delivering a premium, proven experience at a significantly reduced cost. You're getting excellent Active Noise Cancellation, a truly brilliant Transparency Mode, solid audio quality, and seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem – all in a comfortable, compact package.
For those on a budget, or anyone who doesn't need the absolute latest tech and is comfortable navigating the pre-owned market, the 1st Gen AirPods Pro offer an outstanding blend of features and value. They continue to be a fantastic choice for commuters, students, travelers, or anyone seeking to upgrade their audio experience without breaking the bank. Just be smart about your purchase, especially if buying used, and you'll find these veteran earbuds still have plenty of life—and value—left in them.