Apple’s $19 EarPods still make a case against wireless earbuds
Engadget says Apple’s wired EarPods remain a low-cost, low-maintenance alternative to AirPods, despite lacking their advanced features.
Apple’s wired EarPods remain worth considering for buyers who prioritise simplicity and price, according to a comparison published by Engadget. The earbuds do not require charging or Bluetooth pairing, making them ready to use whenever they are connected.
Engadget also says the built-in EarPods microphone can deliver better voice quality than AirPods, while noting that comparative audio and microphone performance may vary by device and environment. Wired models are available with 3.5mm, Lightning and USB-C connectors.
The trade-off is a much shorter feature list. EarPods lack noise cancellation, gestures, voice commands and other capabilities found in modern AirPods, including Spatial Audio, health sensors and live translation.
Connector choice can also affect how EarPods are used with an iPhone. Lightning and USB-C models occupy the phone’s charging port, preventing simultaneous charging unless users carry an adapter that splits the connection.
Price remains the clearest advantage. Engadget quotes EarPods at $19 and the cheapest AirPods at $129, although it does not specify the currency or market. The comparison presents EarPods as a practical backup or lower-cost option, rather than a full replacement for AirPods.
