Why I still recommend the AirPods Pro after testing dozens of earbuds – especially at this price

In 2024, Apple unveiled new AirPods, and while you might be considering buying the brand’s latest earbuds, you shouldn’t forget about the sweet discounts that activate on earlier models once Apple releases new hardware — especially if you’re looking for a new pair of high-quality noise-canceling earbuds. Amazon currently has a great deal on the AirPods Pro 2, our pick for the best AirPods model that you can buy.

Also: The best AirPods you can buy

TheAirPods Pro (2nd Gen), which are some of our favorite earbuds and our top pick out of the AirPods lineup, keep getting lower and lower price at select retailers. At Amazon, the pair are on sale for $199, a $50 discount.

Also: Just installed iOS 18.4? Changing these 3 features made my iPhone much better to use

These are the AirPods that are also getting a major free software update that will turn them into clinical-grade hearing aids sometime this fall. If you’re interested, this is a great time to pick up a pair.

The AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) tops ZDNET’s best AirPods list because they offer impressive sound quality, immersive noise cancellation, all-day comfort, and a wireless charging case. With six hours of battery life and Apple’s latest H2 chip, you’re getting the most modern tech in these Apple earbuds. 

More: These premium JBL earbuds lasted me all week without a charge (and sound great)

And, because the case can utilize wireless charging, you can plunk it down on a MagSafe charger, an Apple Watch charger, or a Qi-compatible charging mat for non-Apple tech products. 

ZDNET editor-in-chief Jason Hiner says the pair are the most easily recommendable of the four AirPod models. “That’s because they fit almost every type of ear, they are very comfortable to wear, and they include all of the best and latest features that Apple has to offer in headphones. Plus, they get a bonus set of new features as part of the iOS 17 update, which won’t come to any of the other AirPods,” he writes. 

If you’re ready to replace that old pair of wired earbuds with one of our favorite wireless earbuds, you might as well hop on this AirPods Pro 2 deal. Plus, check out ZDNET’s list of the best headphones for working out.

Looking for the next best product? Get expert reviews and editor favorites with ZDNET Recommends.

How I rated this deal

Based on ZDNET’s rating system, these 20% savings grant this AirPods Pro 2 deal a 3/5 Editor’s deal rating. This isn’t the lowest amount that the earbuds have ever been. I’ve seen the devices go as low as $170 during season savings events. Still, $199 for a pair of high-end wearables like these is a great deal.