AirPods 5: what’s changed and are they worth 7,999 UAH?

Apple has unveiled the AirPods 5 — the new generation of the company’s most popular earphones, which do not feature silicone ear tips. The main update this year is that active noise cancellation is now available even in the base model, whilst the higher-end version features volume controls on the stem, wireless charging and improved battery life. Prices for the new model in Ukrainian shops start at around 7,999 UAH.

AirPods 5: what’s changed and are they worth 7,999 UAH?

AirPods have long since ceased to be merely wireless earphones for iPhone. For many users of the Apple ecosystem, this is an accessory that you take out of the box, connect in a matter of seconds and then hardly give a second thought to setting up.

With the AirPods 5, the company chose not to radically change this formula. Rather than bringing about a revolution, Apple focused on the areas where previous generations had most often been criticised: noise cancellation, sound quality and controls.

The most important thing is that ANC is now included in the standard AirPods

The main news is — Both versions of the AirPods 5 feature Active Noise Cancellation. In the previous generation, buyers had to pay extra for the model with ANC.

Apple claims that the new AirPods are capable of removing up to 50% more external noise, …than the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation. For an open-ear design without silicone ear tips, that’s quite a claim.

Of course, it’s hard to defy the laws of physics: AirPods Pro, with their sealed earbuds, still have a design advantage on the underground, on a plane or in a very noisy office. But the AirPods 5 are of particular interest to people who do not like in-ear headphones, but they want a decent ANC.

Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness are also included: the headphones can automatically switch between noise cancellation and transparency mode, and lower the volume of the music when the wearer starts speaking.

Apple has taken sound seriously

Inside the AirPods 5, a new multiport acoustic architecture, whilst Adaptive EQ has moved to a new generation of algorithms.

Apple promises a richer and more detailed sound, and the system should adapt better to different ear shapes. Personalised Spatial Audio has also been improved.

This is a significant update. AirPods have traditionally been very comfortable for everyday listening, podcasts and calls, but when it comes to pure sound quality in their price range, they have by no means always been the undisputed leader.

The fifth generation, at least on paper, looks like an attempt to bridge this gap.

At last, you can adjust the volume on the earphone

But there’s a catch here.

Only the more expensive version of the AirPods 5, which comes with a Wireless Charging Case, features volume control via a swipe along the stem. These are Apple’s first open-ear AirPods with this control method.

Swipe your finger up to make it louder, and down to make it quieter.

The feature seems like a minor thing until you start constantly reaching for your iPhone or asking Siri to turn the music down. It’s surprising that Apple left it as a feature exclusive to the Pro models for so long.

Two versions of the AirPods 5

Apple has split its product range again.

Basic AirPods 5 cost $129 in the US, whilst the AirPods 5 with a Wireless Charging Case — $149. Sales start on 18 September.

The higher-end model not only offers wireless charging, but also volume control and a longer battery life.

Apple states the following regarding it Up to 5 hours on a single charge with ANC switched on, and up to 22 hours including the charging case. The case itself can be charged via USB-C, Qi or an Apple Watch charger.

Therefore, if the price difference between the two models in Ukrainian shops is only slight, the version with the Wireless Charging Case looks like a much more appealing purchase.

Siri AI and real-time translation

The AirPods 5 also support Live Translation. When paired with a compatible iPhone featuring Apple Intelligence, the headphones can help you carry on a conversation in different languages.

In addition, Apple has integrated the new Siri AI: the assistant now draws on more context from information on the iPhone and can handle more complex voice requests. To use these features, you’ll need a compatible iPhone and the latest version iOS and supported languages. Some features are not available in all countries.

So, should you buy the AirPods 5? It’s not yet worth it in Ukraine just for the AI features. There are far more compelling arguments in favour of ANC, sound quality and the comfort of an open-back design.

Is it worth buying AirPods 5 for 7,999 UAH?

At the starting price from 7,999 UAH The AirPods 5 look far more impressive than the previous entry-level AirPods.

Apple has effectively removed one of the main compromises of the cheaper model — the lack of active noise cancellation. At the same time, they have improved the sound quality, transparency mode and software-based audio processing.

Pros: A very comfortable open-back design, ANC even in the entry-level model, improved sound quality, excellent integration with the iPhone, Adaptive Audio and Live Translation.

Cons: The open-ear design still falls short of the AirPods Pro in terms of noise isolation, and Apple has kept volume control and wireless charging exclusive to the more expensive model.

Verdict

The AirPods 5 could well be the most successful standard AirPods in recent years. If you use an iPhone, aren’t keen on the silicone tips for the AirPods Pro and want ANC, the model priced at 7,999 UAH looks very appealing.

For owners of AirPods 2 or AirPods 3, upgrading already makes obvious sense. With the AirPods 4, the situation is different: it’s worth upgrading primarily for the stronger ANC and improved sound quality.

And if the price of the higher-spec version is only 1,000–1,500 UAH more, I’d be willing to pay extra specifically for the AirPods 5 with the Wireless Charging Case — Volume control, wireless charging and extended battery life make it a much more complete product.