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How to Know Which AirPods Pro You Have: A Definitive Guide

Figuring out which AirPods Pro model you own might seem trivial, but it’s crucial for understanding compatibility with accessories, knowing your device’s capabilities, and even determining its resale value. The simplest way to identify your AirPods Pro generation is by checking the model number. You’ll find this printed on the AirPods themselves, inside the charging case, and on the original packaging. You can also find the model number through your iPhone’s settings.

Decoding Your AirPods Pro: A Deep Dive

Let’s break down each method to ensure you can confidently identify your AirPods Pro. Apple has released several iterations of the AirPods Pro, and while the external design hasn’t changed dramatically, the internal components and capabilities have. This guide will walk you through the telltale signs that distinguish each generation.

Checking the Model Number

This is the most reliable method. The model number is a unique identifier assigned to each AirPods Pro generation.

AirPods Pro (1st generation): Model number A2083 (left) and A2084 (right). The charging case model number is A2190.
AirPods Pro (2nd generation): Model number A2614 (left) and A2615 (right). The charging case has two potential model numbers: A2700 (Lightning charging case) and A2897 (MagSafe charging case with USB-C).

Where to find the Model Number:

On the AirPods: Look for the tiny text printed on the underside of each AirPod, near where the ear tip attaches. You may need a magnifying glass and good lighting to see it clearly.
Inside the Charging Case: Open the charging case lid. The model number is printed on the inside of the lid, usually in small print near the hinge.
Original Packaging: If you still have the original box, the model number is printed on a label, often alongside the barcode.
iPhone Settings:
- Connect your AirPods Pro to your iPhone.
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth.
- Find your AirPods Pro in the list of devices and tap the “i” icon next to them.
- Scroll down to find the model number and serial number. Tapping on “Model Number” may show a different, shorter identifier, but the Serial Number will confirm which Model you have.

Identifying by Features

While the model number is the most definitive method, here are some key features that can help you narrow it down:

Charging Port: The first-generation AirPods Pro case uses a Lightning port for charging. The second generation initially came with a Lightning port as well, but Apple later released a version with a USB-C port. This is a significant visual difference.
MagSafe Charging: Both generations of AirPods Pro support MagSafe wireless charging. Look for the magnetic alignment feature when placing the case on a MagSafe charger.
Speaker Grille on the Case: The second-generation case has a small speaker grille on the bottom edge. This is used for Find My alerts. The first-generation case does not have this speaker grille.
Lanyard Loop: The second-generation case has a built-in lanyard loop on the side. This allows you to attach a wrist strap or other accessories.
H2 Chip: The second-generation AirPods Pro are powered by Apple’s H2 chip, which offers improved noise cancellation, transparency mode, and battery life.
Adaptive Audio: The second-generation AirPods Pro feature Adaptive Audio, which dynamically blends Transparency mode and Active Noise Cancellation based on your environment.
Conversation Awareness: The second-generation AirPods Pro feature Conversation Awareness, which automatically lowers the volume and enhances voices when you start speaking.
Volume Control on AirPods: Only the second-generation AirPods Pro allow you to control the volume by swiping up or down on the touch control surface of the AirPods themselves.

Serial Number Lookup

If you have the serial number of your AirPods Pro (found in the same locations as the model number), you can enter it on Apple’s website (support.apple.com) to verify the model and warranty status. This is a useful way to confirm the authenticity of your AirPods Pro as well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I identify my AirPods Pro by color?

No. Both generations of AirPods Pro are currently only available in white. While rumors of other colors circulate, Apple hasn’t released any variations beyond the standard white finish.

2. My AirPods Pro case has a speaker grille. Which generation is it?

If your AirPods Pro case has a speaker grille on the bottom, it is a second-generation case. This is a unique feature of the second-generation model.

3. How do I know if my AirPods Pro case supports USB-C charging?

Visually inspect the charging port. If it’s a small, oval-shaped port instead of the wider Lightning port, it’s a USB-C charging case. This is exclusive to a later release of the second-generation AirPods Pro.

4. Are the first-generation AirPods Pro still worth buying?

While the first-generation AirPods Pro offer good noise cancellation and sound quality, the second generation boasts significant improvements in these areas, as well as longer battery life, Adaptive Audio, and Conversation Awareness. If you’re looking for the best possible experience, the second generation is worth the investment. However, the first generation can be a good value if you find them at a deeply discounted price.

5. How do I check the firmware version of my AirPods Pro?

Connect your AirPods Pro to your iPhone. Go to Settings > General > About > AirPods. You’ll find the firmware version listed there. While the firmware version doesn’t directly identify the generation, it can be helpful for troubleshooting issues.

6. What is the difference between Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on the first and second-generation AirPods Pro?

The second-generation AirPods Pro offer significantly improved ANC. Apple claims up to twice the noise cancellation performance compared to the first generation, thanks to the H2 chip.

7. Do both generations of AirPods Pro have the same battery life?

No. The second-generation AirPods Pro offer better battery life. You can expect up to 6 hours of listening time with ANC enabled on the second generation, compared to up to 4.5 hours on the first generation.

8. My AirPods Pro case has a lanyard loop. What does that mean?

The presence of a lanyard loop on the side of the case indicates it’s a second-generation AirPods Pro case. The first-generation case does not have this feature.

9. Can I use first-generation AirPods Pro in a second-generation charging case (or vice versa)?

Yes, you can mix and match AirPods Pro generations with their respective charging cases. However, you won’t get the full benefits of the second-generation case (like the speaker grille or lanyard loop) if you’re using it with first-generation AirPods Pro.

10. My AirPods Pro are not connecting to my iPhone. What should I do?

Try these troubleshooting steps:

Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone.
Put the AirPods Pro back in the charging case, close the lid, wait 15 seconds, and then open it again.
Press and hold the setup button on the back of the charging case until the status light flashes white.
Follow the on-screen instructions on your iPhone to reconnect.
Restart your iPhone.

11. How do I reset my AirPods Pro?

Place your AirPods Pro in the charging case, close the lid, and wait 30 seconds. Open the lid and press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes amber, then white. Your AirPods Pro are now reset.

12. Where can I find the best deals on AirPods Pro?

Keep an eye on major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Apple’s website. Refurbished options from Apple or authorized resellers can also offer significant savings. Price comparison websites can help you find the best deals. Remember to verify the seller’s reputation before making a purchase.