The AirPods Pro 2 are an affordable tool for those with mild to moderate hearing loss, but 23 seniors tell PCMag they can’t replace traditional hearing aids yet. Here’s why.
Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 have been on the market as FDA-approved hearing aids since September 2024, but those who have tried them say there’s room for improvement.
Apple markets its $199 earbuds as an affordable solution for mild to moderate hearing loss when traditional hearing aids usually cost thousands of dollars. Is it too good to be true? We polled 23 seniors about their experience with the AirPods Pro 2. Most are over 65 and also have traditional hearing aids, so they were able to weigh the pros and cons of both.
« I suspect that in a few years, there will be an over-the-counter Apple solution that will seriously compete with the professional audiology business », one survey respondent says. But here’s why our seniors say the product isn’t quite there yet.1. Short Battery Life
The AirPods Pro 2 last from around four to six hours before needing a recharge, which hearing aid wearers say is shorter than what they need. Because of this, some use the AirPods for specific tasks around the house, such as streaming content from their phones and making calls, but don’t find them to be a viable alternative for all-day use.
« My husband wears his just to receive phone calls », one person says. « I use them in the morning at home so I can stream from my iPhone/MacBook », adds another.
But for less than $200, Apple devices are a welcome companion to traditional hearing aids. « Personally, I don’t think the limited battery of the iPods is really an issue », one person says. « Because with the big cost differential between better hearing aids ($3000+) and AirPod Pros ($200) you could buy several pair of AirPods and swap them out. »
Another noted that AirPods charge faster than their traditional hearing aids, which can also help overcome short battery life, as long as you have a plug nearby.
