# What is the best AirPods model of all time?

> From the classic original to the noise-cancelling Pro and the over-ear Max, every tier of the lineup is here. Which pair wins your ears?

*By YPB Team · Published May 8, 2026 · https://youpick.best/ranking/what-is-the-best-airpods-model-of-all-time*

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## Current results (0 votes)

1. **AirPods (1st Gen)**
   Apple's original 2016 wireless earbuds that popularized the truly wireless form factor and introduced the W1 chip.
2. **AirPods (2nd Gen)**
   The 2019 update featuring the faster H1 chip, enabling hands-free Siri and improved wireless connectivity.
3. **AirPods (3rd Gen)**
   The 2021 redesign with spatial audio, a shorter stem, and force sensor controls in a more compact charging case.
4. **AirPods (4th Gen)**
   Apple's 2024 AirPods featuring a new fit system and an ANC variant, bringing Pro-level noise cancellation to the standard line.
5. **AirPods Pro (1st Gen)**
   The 2019 model that introduced active noise cancellation and a custom fit to the AirPods lineup for the first time.
6. **AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)**
   The 2022 flagship earbuds with significantly improved ANC, adaptive transparency, and a new touch-swipe stem.
7. **AirPods Max (1st Gen)**
   Apple's 2020 premium over-ear headphones delivering studio-quality sound, ANC, and spatial audio in a luxurious aluminum build.
8. **AirPods Max (2nd Gen)**
   The 2024 refresh of Apple's over-ear headphones adding USB-C charging and new color options while retaining the acclaimed audio quality.

Tags: brands, tech, headphones, audio