After Apple introduced the AirPods 5 last week, we got a set to review. The AirPods 5 have the same design and fit as the AirPods 4, so they're just as comfortable. Active Noise Cancellation has been improved through new internal acoustic architecture, and it's surprisingly good. Apple says the AirPods 5 use low-noise microphones and a new compressor tuned for open-ear ANC. Sound quality was muddier than on the AirPods Pro 3, but iOS 27's custom EQ allows adjustments. The AirPods 5 support Adaptive Audio and Transparency.

Apple used to limit ANC to the higher-end AirPods 4, but with the AirPods 5, it's universal. You can now get AirPods with ANC for just $129. An upgraded model with a Wireless Charging Case, an extra hour of battery life, and swipe-based controls costs $149. The base model has four hours of battery with ANC, while the upgraded version offers five hours.

Live Translation, Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and other features previously limited to the higher-end AirPods 4 are now on all models. Dust and water resistance has improved with an IP57 rating.

With the ANC upgrade and price drop, the AirPods 5 are an excellent value. The AirPods 5 are available for pre-order and launch on Friday, September 18.