Apple AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Review: Exceptional ANC on a Budget

Apple AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging review

Apple's second-cheapest new AirPods are a fantastic little buy. But you'd be forgiven for overlooking them given Apple's curious naming strategy. After all, the last time Apple unveiled two sets of entry-level AirPods, one had ANC and the other didn't. But with AirPods 5, both the base model and the step-up option tote ANC.

As the name implies, the AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging offer a better case that charges wirelessly. Beyond that, there are a few other perks the cheaper model lacks, making this set far worthier of the nominal extra fee.

The included case features a speaker for audible pairing status pings and Find My tracking assistance. Furthermore, the earbuds incorporate a force sensor with volume swipe functionality on both stems for seamless playback and call handling without needing to pull out a connected phone.

Battery life provides an extra hour over the base model, reaching up to five hours from the buds with ANC enabled, or up to 22 hours total with the case. While adequate, this longevity is easily surpassed by several price-competitive industry rivals.

Despite minor battery limitations, these stand out as some of the best budget earbuds available, offering unmatched performance for iPhone users at this price point.

Design and Ergonomics

The charging case is exceptionally tiny and features strong magnets that snap shut securely, making it ideal for pocket carry during daily commutes.

Utilizing an open-fit design reminiscent of wired EarPods, the earbuds sit comfortably in the ear without requiring silicone tips or creating an intrusive seal. However, this relaxed fit means they are less secure for high-energy sports and intense physical workouts.

Device switching across the Apple ecosystem occasionally requires manual intervention if automatic pop-up notifications fail to appear, though pairing remains generally straightforward.

Adjusting the volume directly on the stems requires a specific pinching motion to swipe along the force sensor, which takes a little practice to master comfortably.

The physical stems support traditional multi-press shortcuts for playback control, call management, summoning Siri, toggling noise cancellation profiles, or initiating Live Translation features.

Smart Features and Performance

Powered by Apple's H2 chip, the earbuds support Personalized Spatial Audio alongside advanced features like Live Translation for multilingual communication.

Using Live Translation requires an eligible iPhone running updated software with Apple Intelligence enabled, along with downloaded language packs for offline accessibility.

Conversation Awareness intelligently lowers music volume and amplifies external speech when the user starts talking, providing a smooth and responsive conversational experience.

The active noise cancellation is remarkably potent, effectively muting household disturbances, street commotion, and background hubbub with minimal effort.

Call quality remains clear and reliable for both callers and wearers, while experimental head gestures for call management require deliberate head movements to register reliably.

Audio Quality

Sonically, the earbuds deliver an energetic and engaging presentation characterized by impressive spatial awareness, clean instrument separation, and surprising depth.

While they may not satisfy audiophiles seeking ultra-flat, studio-reference detail, they provide a fun, immersive listening experience that punches well above their class.

Apple AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging review: price & release date

$149 / £139 / AU$249

Announced in September 2026.

The wireless earbud market features intense competition at the mid-range price tier from both traditional audio brands and open-ear competitors.

Alternative options include open-ear designs like the Sennheiser Accentum Clip and various over-ear headphones tailored for different listening preferences.

Apple's primary competition stems internally from the standard AirPods 5 and the more expensive AirPods Pro 3, which offer advanced health tracking and physical ear tips.

For listeners who do not require specialized hearing-health suites or workout-focused sealing, the wireless charging model delivers exceptional value for money.

Buy them if...

You want affordable iPhone active noise cancellation paired with extended battery stamina and useful case features.

You appreciate pocketable, minimalist design hardware that prioritizes everyday practicality.

You frequently converse while wearing earbuds and can benefit from automated Conversation Awareness features.

Don't buy them if...

You use an Android device, as these earbuds are tightly integrated into the Apple iOS ecosystem.

You require advanced health-monitoring capabilities like heart-rate sensors or specialized hearing enhancement suites found on Pro models.

You need ultra-long continuous battery performance to survive extended long-haul flights without intermediate charging stops.

Apple AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging review: also consider

The standard AirPods 5 offer a lighter-weight alternative with similar open-fit designs and active noise cancellation at a lower price point, though with reduced battery life.

The Nothing Ear (a) provide an attractive alternative for users seeking high-res audio codec support and budget-friendly pricing outside the Apple ecosystem.

Specifications