Pixel Buds Pro 2 vs Pixel Buds Pro: Should you upgrade?

Google’s latest true wireless earbuds, the Pixel Buds Pro 2, bring several improvements over their predecessor. But are the upgrades worth shelling out for a new pair? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 and the original Pixel Buds Pro to help you decide if it’s time to upgrade.

Editor’s note: this article was updated on September 27, 2024, to reference issues some users are reporting with the Pixel Buds Pro 2 microphones. 

What’s it like to use the Pixel Buds Pro 2 compared to the Pixel Buds Pro?

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 features a redesigned, smaller form factor that addresses one of the main criticisms of the original Pixel Buds Pro. The new buds are lighter and include soft rubber fins for a more secure fit, making them better suited for active use. Both models offer IPX4 water resistance for the earbuds, but the Pixel Buds Pro 2 case now boasts an IP54 rating, an improvement over the original’s IPX2 rating.

Touch controls remain similar between the two models, with both offering intuitive gestures for playback control and volume adjustment. However, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 introduce conversation detection, which automatically enables transparency mode when you start speaking.

Should you use the apps of either Pixel Buds Pro 2 or Pixel Buds Pro?

Both models utilize the Pixel Buds app for Android users and have system-level integration for Pixel phone owners.

Upon its release, the Google Pixel Buds Pro did not come with any other equalizer besides the Volume EQ. Subsequent updates have thankfully introduced a more conventional equalizer. You can now choose between five presets or save your own. To create your own EQ, you get five sliders (Upper Treble, Treble, Mid, Bass, Lower Bass) and no decibels or associated frequencies, so some experimentation will be necessary. This can go a long way to improving the somewhat hyped sound of the Pixel Buds Pro.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 launches with a full 5-band equalizer with custom preset, an improvement over the original model’s limited Volume EQ. The newer model also launched with support for spatial audio with head tracking on compatible Pixel phones, which also became available to the original Pixel Buds Pro via an update a few months after launch.

Something unique to the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 is its support for Auracast. This is a big deal, as Auracast will enable a host of venue-specific features, like allowing you to hear stadium announcements, airport announcements in your language, or similar applications.

How do the Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Buds Pro connect?

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 uses Bluetooth 5.4, an upgrade from the Bluetooth 5.0 used in the original Pixel Buds Pro. Both models support the SBC and AAC codecs. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 is expected to support the LC3 codec in the future, though this wasn’t available at launch. Both models offer Fast Pair for Android and multipoint connectivity, allowing seamless switching between devices.

Is battery life better on the Pixel Buds Pro 2 or Pixel Buds Pro?

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 slightly edge out their predecessor in battery life. They offer 7 hours and 55 minutes of playback with ANC enabled, compared to 7 hours and 6 minutes for the original Pixel Buds Pro. Both models support wireless charging and fast charging via USB-C.

Do the Pixel Buds Pro 2 or Pixel Buds Pro block noise better?

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 shows improved noise isolation compared to the original model. While both effectively attenuate low-frequency sounds, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 offers better overall noise reduction, especially in the mid-and high-frequency range. With active noise cancelation, you can expect about 79% of outside noise to be attenuated with both models.

Do the Pixel Buds Pro 2 sound better than the Pixel Buds Pro?

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 features a more balanced sound signature than their predecessor, addressing some of the criticisms of the original model’s exaggerated bass and treble response.

The original Pixel Buds Pro had a heavily exaggerated frequency response, with bass below 500Hz receiving a notable increase in volume. Sub-bass below 70Hz was over-amplified by more than 6dB relative to our preference curve. The treble received a big bump between 4-8kHz, with up to 10dB of extra emphasis.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 offers a more neutral frequency response compared to the original Pixel Buds Pro. They maintain a slight bass boost but reduce the exaggerated sub-bass and treble emphasis of the older model, resulting in a more balanced listening experience across various genres.

Do the Pixel Buds Pro 2 or Pixel Buds Pro have a better microphone?

Both models offer decent microphone quality for calls, benefiting from updated features like Clear Calling and Bluetooth Super Wideband support. That said, some users have reported issues with the Pixel Buds Pro 2 microphone, though your experience will vary depending on what device and application you are connected to. Listen to our microphone tests below, and let us know which you think sounds better.

Pixel Buds Pro 2 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Pixel Buds Pro microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Pixel Buds Pro 2 microphone demo (Street conditions):

Pixel Buds Pro microphone demo (Street conditions):

Pixel Buds Pro 2 vs Pixel Buds Pro: Price and availability

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 launched at $229, slightly higher than the original Pixel Buds Pro’s $199 launch price. Both models are widely available, but we expect the original Pixel Buds Pro to be often discounted due to the release of the newer model, especially on events like Black Friday sales.

Should you get the Pixel Buds Pro 2 or Pixel Buds Pro?

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 offers notable improvements over its predecessor, including a better fit, improved sound quality, better isolation, and Auracast capabilities. For Android users, especially those with Pixel phones, the upgrades may justify the higher price tag.

However, if you already own the original Pixel Buds Pro and are satisfied with its performance, the improvements don’t really warrant an immediate upgrade. If your budget allows, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is the better choice for new buyers, offering a more refined and feature-rich experience. Those on a tighter budget will likely still find the original Pixel Buds Pro a solid option, especially if it is found at a discounted price.

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