What changed with AirPods 5 pricing and features?
This year, Apple kept the starting price for AirPods 5 at $129/£119, matching last year's AirPods 4. The new AirPods 5 base model gains active noise cancellation—previously only found on more expensive models. There's also an AirPods 5 with a wireless charging case for $149/£139, undercutting last year's mid-range model with similar features.
This keeps Apple competitive in a landscape where many tech products have jumped in price. Importantly, the added features—like noise cancellation and touch volume controls—were missing from Apple’s entry-level offering, especially at a time when rivals from Sony or Samsung often offered them even at lower price points. These upgrades close a growing gap for everyday users who want solid sound and extras without moving up to Pro-tier pricing.
Who should consider the new AirPods 5—and who should skip?
If you're an Apple user coming from an older or non-ANC AirPods model, AirPods 5 now provide a more convincing value. The addition of noise cancellation actually affects real-world usability—commuter noise drops, calls are clearer, and the earbuds feel more modern, especially in busy environments like transit or open offices.
On comfort, AirPods keep their familiar universal fit: not as immersive as in-ear silicone rivals, but preferred for long-wear comfort and casual use. Battery life remains average—expect between 4.5 and 5 hours per charge, depending on volume and ANC. That’s competitive, though top models from other brands, especially with full in-ear designs, sometimes inch past that mark.
Skip the upgrade if you already have AirPods Pro, want a truly sealed in-ear fit, or need class-leading bass and longer battery life. Strong rivals at this price include Samsung Galaxy Buds FE and the Sony WF-C700N, both boasting strong ANC and a more customizable fit, often on sale.
What’s the real-world value versus rivals and previous models?
Holding pricing steady while improving features is a rarity in the current earbud market. The improved AirPods 5 make more sense now compared to basic AirPods 4 (which lacked ANC), but keep in mind you can find last year's AirPods or competitor models discounted at many retailers—sometimes dramatically undercutting the new launch price.
Functionally, AirPods still bring the best out of iPhones thanks to Apple’s ecosystem (seamless pairing, Find My integration, and instant device switching). If you’re outside the Apple ecosystem, though, or want the best isolation and sound, there are feature-rich alternatives to consider for the money.
Takeaway: is AirPods 5 worth it in 2026?
The AirPods 5 deliver overdue upgrades that make them far more competitive—especially for Apple fans who hesitated before due to lack of noise cancellation or basic controls. If you want classic AirPods fit, hands-free Siri, and an easy Apple experience, AirPods 5 are the best non-Pro option yet without an inflated price tag.
If you value noise isolation, deep bass, or longer battery life—and don’t mind brands outside Apple—give Samsung or Sony’s similarly priced models a look. Bargain hunters should also watch for deals on remaining AirPods 4 and competitor buds for extra savings.