Apple released the AirPods Pro 2nd generation in September 2022, and they have held the top position in our earbuds recommendations for iPhone users ever since. The 2026 firmware update adds clinically validated hearing health features that meaningfully expand what these earbuds can do.
ANC Performance
We measure ANC performance using standardised pink noise and real-world environments. The AirPods Pro 2 achieved an average of 28 dB attenuation at 1kHz — the highest of any truly wireless earbuds in our database. Sony WF-1000XM5 scored 26 dB and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II scored 25 dB.
2026 Hearing Health Features
The hearing test, conducted through the AirPods in a quiet environment, took 8 minutes and produced results that matched audiologist-administered screenings within 5 dB accuracy. The hearing aid mode for mild-to-moderate hearing loss amplified speech frequencies perceptibly and naturally.
Final Verdict
The AirPods Pro 2 remain our top pick for iPhone users. The 2026 hearing health features add meaningful value on top of already-excellent fundamentals. Android users should consider the Sony WF-1000XM5 for comparable ANC without the iOS dependency.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 Review 2026: The Best ANC Earbuds for iPhone Users
The AirPods Pro 2 are the best earbuds for iPhone users. The combination of market-leading ANC, Transparency mode, and iOS ecosystem integration creates a listening experience Android-focused competitors cannot replicate.
