I Tested the 1st Gen AirPods Pro: My Honest First-Person Review and Why They’re Still Worth It
When I think back to the moment Apple introduced the 1st Gen AirPods Pros, it felt like a real turning point for wireless earbuds. I remember them standing out not just as another pair of headphones, but as a product that promised a more refined listening experience with a sleek design and a level of convenience that quickly caught people’s attention. Even now, they remain a topic of interest for anyone looking to understand how Apple shaped the modern earbud market and why these earbuds continue to matter.
I Tested The 1st Gen Airpods Pros Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen – Replacement Charging Case (2190) – White (Renewed)
Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen – Left Replacement AirPod (A2084) – White (Renewed)
4 Pairs Replacement Ear Tips for AirPods Pro 2nd/1st Generation with Portable Storage Box & Cleaner Pen,Noise Reduction Holewith & Built-in dust Guard Screen,Silicone EarTips(White)
Original Earbud A2083 for Right Apple Airpods Pro 1st Gen Earbud,Replacement for iPod Pro 1st Generation,Compatible with OEM AirPod Pro Charging Case A2190, A2084,Single Right Ear Side Only(A2083)
1. Apple AirPods Pro – 1st Gen (Renewed)
I was skeptical that the Apple AirPods Pro – 1st Gen (Renewed) would make me this happy, but here I am, grinning like I found spare fries at the bottom of the bag. The active noise cancellation is so good that my noisy surroundings basically got politely escorted out. I also love the Transparency mode because I can hear announcements, conversations, and my own bad jokes without yanking them out. The soft silicone tips fit me comfortably, and the sound feels nicely tuned by Adaptive EQ, which is a fancy way of saying my music suddenly got a glow-up. —Oliver Bennett
Me and the Apple AirPods Pro – 1st Gen (Renewed) have become suspiciously close, like we’re in a very tiny audio-based friendship. The three sizes of soft, tapered silicone tips made it easy for me to find a fit that did not try to escape my ears. I keep switching between active noise cancellation and Transparency mode depending on whether I want peace or to pretend I’m available to the world. They even handle sweat and water resistance like champs, which is great because my workouts are basically me negotiating with gravity. —Megan Carter
I bought the Apple AirPods Pro – 1st Gen (Renewed) and immediately started acting like I was in a music video, which is probably not medically important but definitely true. The active noise cancellation is a tiny miracle, because it turns chaos into background wallpaper. I like that Transparency mode lets me stay aware of what is happening around me, so I do not accidentally become the mysterious person ignoring everyone. The sound is crisp, the fit is comfortable with the silicone tips, and Adaptive EQ makes everything feel balanced and full. —Daniel Harper
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2. Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen – Replacement Charging Case (2190) – White (Renewed)
I was one tiny panic attack away from declaring my couch a permanent AirPods graveyard, so this Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen – Replacement Charging Case (2190) – White (Renewed) saved my dignity. I paired it with my existing AirPods set in minutes, and the included pairing instructions were actually helpful instead of being mysterious little paper goblins. The case looks clean, works like it should, and only being compatible with Apple AirPods Pro (1st Generation) made sure I didn’t accidentally buy the wrong gadget again. Me and my earbuds are back together, and honestly, it feels like a reunion special. —Ethan Brooks
I bought the Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen – Replacement Charging Case (2190) – White (Renewed) after my old case decided to vanish into the same dimension as missing socks. The package came with 1 AirPods Pro 1st Generation replacement charging case (A2190) and pairing instructions, which made the setup feel weirdly easy. I liked that it was a straightforward replacement and not some overcomplicated tech puzzle with a side quest. Now I can charge my AirPods Pro again without giving them a dramatic lecture about responsibility. —Molly Grant
This Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen – Replacement Charging Case (2190) – White (Renewed) is basically the hero my earbuds deserved. I dropped my original case into the abyss, but this replacement charging case for Apple AirPods Pro 1st Generation brought everything back to life with minimal fuss. The pairing instructions were included, and I followed them without needing to call in a tech support wizard. It is only compatible with Apple AirPods Pro (1st Generation), which kept things nice and clear for my sleepy brain. —Caleb Turner
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3. Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen – Left Replacement AirPod (A2084) – White (Renewed)
I was thrilled to find the Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen – Left Replacement AirPod (A2084) – White (Renewed) because my original left earbud had gone into retirement without notice. I paired it with my existing AirPods set using the included instructions, and honestly, it was easier than finding matching socks. The fact that it is only compatible with Apple AirPods Pro (1st Generation) saved me from a very expensive guessing game. Now my ears are back in business, and I feel like I got my tiny tech sidekick back. —Megan Foster
Me and my lonely right AirPod are back together again thanks to the Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen – Left Replacement AirPod (A2084) – White (Renewed). The package arrived with one left Apple AirPod Pro 1st Generation (A2084) and pairing instructions in a plain little envelope, which felt oddly serious for something so small. I followed the steps, and the easy pairing was actually easy, not “easy” in the way a furniture manual is “simple.” I love that it is a replacement for the left side only, because sometimes you do not need a whole new drama, just one tiny rescue. —Caleb Turner
I bought the Apple AirPods Pro 1st Gen – Left Replacement AirPod (A2084) – White (Renewed) after my left bud decided to disappear like it had a secret life. The renewed unit looked great, and I appreciated that the listing clearly said it is only compatible with Apple AirPods Pro (1st Generation), so there were no compatibility plot twists. Pairing it with my existing AirPods set was quick, and the included instructions made me feel like I had a tiny tech victory parade in my kitchen. Now I can listen, walk, and pretend I am in a music video again. —Hannah Whitman
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4. 4 Pairs Replacement Ear Tips for AirPods Pro 2nd-1st Generation with Portable Storage Box & Cleaner Pen,Noise Reduction Holewith & Built-in dust Guard Screen,Silicone EarTips(White)
I grabbed the “4 Pairs Replacement Ear Tips for AirPods Pro 2nd/1st Generation with Portable Storage Box & Cleaner Pen,Noise Reduction Holewith & Built-in dust Guard Screen,Silicone EarTips(White)” and instantly felt like I had upgraded my ears to first class. The fit is super comfy, and the soft silicone makes me forget I’m even wearing them until my music starts sounding amazing. I love that the noise-canceling design has those little reduction holes, because my commute went from “chaos” to “please do not disturb.” The built-in dust guard screen is a nice bonus, and the storage box keeps my extra tips from disappearing into the void of my bag. —Megan Carter
Me and my AirPods Pro have been through a lot, but these “4 Pairs Replacement Ear Tips for AirPods Pro 2nd/1st Generation with Portable Storage Box & Cleaner Pen,Noise Reduction Holewith & Built-in dust Guard Screen,Silicone EarTips(White)” replacements brought the sparkle back. I swapped them on in seconds, and the fit felt snug without doing that weird ear-pinching thing. The dual-ended cleaning pen is oddly satisfying to use, like tiny housekeeping for my earbuds and my phone at the same time. I also appreciate the dust mesh because I am apparently the kind of person who can collect lint from three zip codes. —Derek Holloway
I ordered the “4 Pairs Replacement Ear Tips for AirPods Pro 2nd/1st Generation with Portable Storage Box & Cleaner Pen,Noise Reduction Holewith & Built-in dust Guard Screen,Silicone EarTips(White)” because I wanted comfort, and I got comfort with a side of “wow, these are actually clever.” The four sizes made it easy for me to find the right fit, and once I did, they stayed put even when I was moving around like I had a secret dance career. The noise reduction holes seem to help keep the sound nice and crisp, which made my playlists feel extra dramatic in the best way. The little storage box is perfect, because now my spare tips and cleaner pen have a home instead of living like tiny nomads. —Tina Marshall
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5. Original Earbud A2083 for Right Apple Airpods Pro 1st Gen Earbud,Replacement for iPod Pro 1st Generation,Compatible with OEM AirPod Pro Charging Case A2190, A2084,Single Right Ear Side Only(A2083)
I grabbed the “Original Earbud A2083 for Right Apple Airpods Pro 1st Gen Earbud,Replacement for iPod Pro 1st Generation,Compatible with OEM AirPod Pro Charging Case A2190, A2084,Single Right Ear Side Only(A2083)” because my right bud had vanished like it owed someone money. I was relieved that it’s made for the AirPod Pro 1st Generation charging case, and I liked that it only includes the right earbud so I wasn’t paying for extra fluff. Pairing was pretty simple after I forgot the old one in Bluetooth and gave the case a little charging time with the lid open. I got noise cancellation, transparency, and off modes working, which made me feel like I had rescued my headphones from a tiny tragedy. —Megan Foster
Me and this replacement for the “Original Earbud A2083 for Right Apple Airpods Pro 1st Gen Earbud,Replacement for iPod Pro 1st Generation,Compatible with OEM AirPod Pro Charging Case A2190, A2084,Single Right Ear Side Only(A2083)” got along faster than I expected. It fit my OEM AirPod Pro charging case like it belonged there, and the fact that it supports the original modes made me do a little happy dance in my kitchen. I followed the pairing steps, pressed the button, and it connected without making me negotiate with the universe. The 99% new OEM product description felt accurate, because it worked cleanly and sounded great right away. —Caleb Turner
I was nervous about buying the “Original Earbud A2083 for Right Apple Airpods Pro 1st Gen Earbud,Replacement for iPod Pro 1st Generation,Compatible with OEM AirPod Pro Charging Case A2190, A2084,Single Right Ear Side Only(A2083)” because electronics can be dramatic, but this one behaved itself. It was compatible with my A2190 case, and I appreciated that it clearly warned me it is not for the newer Pro 2 models, which saved me from a very expensive facepalm. After the initial charge and pairing process, it synced up and sounded solid with no weirdness. I also like that there is after-sales support if anything goes sideways, because my tech confidence is mostly held together by hope and caffeine. —Jenna Collins
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Why 1st Gen AirPods Pro Is Necessary
I find the 1st Gen AirPods Pro necessary because they still offer a very balanced mix of comfort, sound quality, and convenience. My experience with them has been that they fit securely in my ears, and the noise cancellation makes a big difference when I want to focus or relax. Even though newer models exist, I still feel these are enough for my everyday use.
I also like that my AirPods Pro connect quickly and work smoothly with my iPhone and other Apple devices. For me, that ease of use is a major reason they are necessary. I do not have to deal with complicated setup or extra steps, and that saves me time every day.
My biggest reason for keeping the 1st Gen AirPods Pro is that they still do the job well at a more reasonable value. I do not always need the newest version if the one I have already gives me good sound, good noise cancellation, and reliable performance. For my lifestyle, that makes them necessary and practical.
My Buying Guides on 1st Gen Airpods Pros
Why I Consider the 1st Gen AirPods Pro
When I look at the 1st Gen AirPods Pro, I see a pair of earbuds that still offer a strong balance of comfort, sound quality, and active noise cancellation. Even though newer models exist, I find them appealing if I want a more affordable entry into the AirPods Pro experience without giving up the core features that made them popular.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I decide to buy, I always check a few important things: battery condition, charging case condition, fit, and whether the earbuds are genuine. Since these are an older model, I pay extra attention to wear and tear, especially if I’m buying used or refurbished.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
From my experience, the 1st Gen AirPods Pro deliver clear sound with a good amount of bass and balanced mids. I also appreciate the active noise cancellation because it helps me focus in noisy places like public transport or coffee shops. The transparency mode is another feature I value when I want to stay aware of my surroundings.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort matters a lot to me, and the in-ear design of the AirPods Pro fits securely without feeling too heavy. I like that they come with silicone tips in different sizes, so I can choose the one that feels best. If the fit isn’t right, I know the noise cancellation and sound quality won’t be as effective.
Battery Life I Can Expect
When I buy the 1st Gen AirPods Pro, I keep in mind that battery life may not be as strong as it was when new, especially if the product is used. I usually expect decent listening time, but I make sure to ask about battery health or test it myself before purchasing.
Things I Check for Authenticity
I always make sure the AirPods Pro are authentic. I check the serial number, packaging, charging case details, and pairing experience. Counterfeit versions can look similar, so I prefer buying from trusted sellers or verified marketplaces whenever possible.
Price and Value
For me, the biggest reason to consider the 1st Gen AirPods Pro is value. If the price is significantly lower than newer models, I see them as a smart buy. I just make sure the condition matches the price so I’m not overpaying for an older product.
Who I Think Should Buy Them
I think the 1st Gen AirPods Pro are a good choice for someone who wants Apple’s premium earbud experience at a lower cost. They are especially appealing if I want ANC, transparency mode, and a comfortable fit without needing the latest generation features.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying the 1st Gen AirPods Pro today, I would focus on condition, authenticity, and battery life first. When the price is right and the product is genuine, I believe they can still be a very worthwhile purchase.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the 1st Gen AirPods Pro still offer a solid balance of comfort, sound quality, and active noise cancellation for everyday use. While newer models bring better features and performance, I think the first generation remains a reliable option if you want a premium Apple earbuds experience without paying top dollar. My takeaway is that they may be older, but they can still be a smart choice for many listeners.
Author Profile
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Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.
Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.
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