Apple’s first wireless earphones, the airpod, was introduced on December 13, 2016, and it has been gaining attention ever since. However, these wireless earphones are pretty costly at approximately $159 without tax. They also come along with some negative qualities, like the shape of the airpods and the effects of having wireless earphones. Therefore, this leads us to question, are airpods really worth the price?
As an airpod user myself, I believe that airpods have both pros and cons. A positive element of buying airpods is the size. Airpods are portable, and they make it easy for anyone to carry around in their pocket or bag. Also, many users may feel that the small size will make it easier for them to lose it, but that’s not a problem because there is a feature called “Find My Airpods.” Through this, users can track the airpods’ location and look for it easily.
Airpods also have a playback control feature that allows users to pause, play, or raise the volume of their music. Users can control the volume or song by double tapping the side of their airpod. The double tap also comes with options like Siri, play/pause, and off. This makes it easy for the user to control their music without their phone, and they will be able to put their phones in their pocket or bag.
Another good thing about airpods is their design. Airpods have a very simplistic and modern design that fits most people’s preference, but it may differ for everyone. The connection of the airpods are easily accessible as well. It has an easy-to-use feature that automatically connects to the user’s device and it’s effortless. Just turn the airpod on and a little screen will pop up. It’s as simple as that.
However, just like all things, airpods come along with some cons as well. First off, airpods are not made for all users. The shape of the airpods aren’t comfortable for all ears. It doesn’t really fit well for some ears, and their open design allows a lot of noise to leak in. Similar wireless earphones can have a better sound, like the Bose Soundsport wireless earphones or the Jaybird Run.
According to UC Berkeley Cal Alumni Association, airpods may not be entirely safe, potentially risking damage to the brain: “You are putting a microwave-emitting device next to your brain…” said Dr. Joel Moskowitz. “It’s like we keep rediscovering that Bluetooth is harmful and trying to forget it because we don’t know how to handle it from a policy standpoint… Essentially I recommend using corded headsets or hands-free use of cell phones, not wireless earbuds.” However, Moskowitz’s claim does not apply to only airpods, but every other wireless earphones. So, users should consider the risks before buying any wireless earphones.
Most importantly, the cost of the airpods are a big reason why many users choose to not buy them. Like mentioned earlier, airpods are pricey, and this can discourage many users from buying airpods.
Eventually, the worth of buying airpods is all up to the user to decide. Airpods offer both pros and cons that will either grab the user’s attention or strayed them away from buying them. Airpods may also be better for certain types of people, like athletes who use wireless earphones when exercising. So, ultimately, airpods come with many qualities that the user will deem as worth the price or not.
Sharon Pak, Grade 11
Crescenta Valley High School