Hearing Aids vs. AirPods Pro 2: Why You Still Need a Hearing Test

It’s natural to be interested in new hearing technologies if you have a hearing loss or you love someone who has a hearing loss. Innovations in hearing health, especially those available over the counter, are always worth exploring. 

As with most new Apple products, many people were excited about the release of Apple’s AirPods Pro 2, but how do hearing aids vs. AirPods Pro 2 measure up?

Key Differences Between Hearing Aids vs. AirPods Pro 2

At first glance, in an AirPods-hearing aid comparison, it may seem like the AirPods Pro 2 hearing aid feature provides the equivalent of traditional hearing care, but there are many key differences to be aware of. 

Primary Purpose

Hearing Aids: Traditional hearing aids are designed specifically for hearing loss. They are small electronic devices that are programmed specifically to an individuals hearing loss. Hearing aids include several different components that work together, including a microphone, an amplifier, and a receiver. Many of the newer hearing devices use artificial intelligence to separate speech from noise. Hearing aids can be worn at all times and on all occasions. 

AirPods Pro 2: The main function of AirPods Pro 2 is to work as earbuds that you can plug into a cell phone, computer, or other device. The hearing aid feature in AirPods is a general audio device with some sound amplification. AirPods are not intended to be worn at all times. 

Sound Amplification and Clarity

Hearing Aids: Hearing aids are highly customized sound amplification devices. Each hearing aid is tailored to meet the individual’s hearing loss needs. Hearing aids can help with mild to severe hearing loss and are adjustable for different environments. 

AirPods Pro 2: The AirPod hearing aid feature is limited to a generic sound boost similar to turning up the volume on a television. The feature lacks customization and cannot be adjusted for different environments. 

Custom Fitting and Comfort

Hearing Aids: Traditional hearing aids are custom-fitted by trained audiologists clinical setting. They are intended for prolonged use. The same hearing aid can be used for many years with proper adjustments. Hearing aids should be comfortable. Many people wear their hearing aids for most or all of their waking hours. 

AirPods Pro 2: AirPods Pro 2 buds come in one size. Because they are not intended for long hours of daily use, there is no opportunity for customization. The standard size may not be a comfortable fit for every person. 

Directional Microphones and Noise Management

Hearing Aids: Hearing aids are equipped with advanced directional microphones that help users focus on specific sounds. For example, the microphones can focus on speech in a noisy environment by lowering ambient noise levels. 

AirPods Pro 2: The AirPods Pro 2 hearing aid feature provides only basic noise cancellation. It does not include advanced directional microphones and is not tailored to individual hearing needs. 

Hearing Health Monitoring and Support

Hearing Aids: Hearing aids include features like volume limits, data tracking, and ongoing audiologist support. 

Volume limits protect the user’s ears by keeping audio limits at safe levels. Data tracking provides objective information about how a person uses their hearing aid and how their hearing health can be improved. Continued audiologist support helps ensure patients receive up-to-date treatment plans as their hearing needs change.  

AirPods Pro 2: When considering hearing aids vs. AirPods Pro 2, keep in mind that AirPods provide only limited health monitoring, which must be accessed from an app. There is no personalized support, volume limits, or data tracking.

Why You Should Still Get a Hearing Test With an Audiologist

There are three main reasons to have your hearing loss tested by a doctor of audiology: diagnosis, personalized care, and protecting long-term hearing health. 

Proper Diagnosis

Advances in hearing technology can make life easier and more enjoyable for those with hearing loss. However, technologies cannot replace a proper diagnosis from a trained audiologist. Any successful treatment begins with a correct diagnosis. 

Personalized Care

Audiologists do more than oversee hearing tests. Your audiologist will examine your ears, discuss the pros and cons of different treatment options, and provide personalized care that meets your hearing and lifestyle needs. An audiologist will also work with you to adjust your hearing aid and ensure it is comfortable and working correctly. 

Long-Term Health

Audiologists are trained medical professionals who specialize in hearing and balance disorders. They diagnose and treat hearing disorders and provide patient education.

Audiologists can help you maintain hearing health and provide rehabilitation training such as auditory skill development. 

The Social and Visual Impact of AirPods Pro 2 vs. Hearing Aids

The social impact of AirPods Pro 2 vs. hearing aids can’t be overlooked. Living with hearing loss can already be isolating. Wearing any type of earbuds has become a social signal that says “Please don’t bother me.” Using AirPods as hearing aids could deter others from interacting with you. 

Many traditional hearing aids are nearly invisible. If people do notice them, they know aids are being worn for hearing support. Other people will understand that you have hearing loss and may encourage you to adjust your aids if you’re having difficulty joining the conversation. 

Additional Benefits of Hearing Aids for Hearing Health

Some of the additional benefits of hearing aids vs. AirPods Pro 2 relate to quality and ease of use. 

Feedback Control and Reduced Distortion

Hearing aids are optimized to reduce feedback and deliver clear sound without distortion. These two benefits are essential for effective communication.

Battery Life and Usability

Hearing aids typically have longer battery life for consistent, daily use, while AirPods Pro 2 require frequent charging and may not last all day. 

Protection Against Further Hearing Loss

Hearing aids can protect your remaining hearing by managing volume limits, whereas AirPods Pro 2 can’t provide the same level of protection.

Can AirPods Pro 2 Be a Substitute for Hearing Aids?

When deciding between hearing aids or AirPods, there are many factors to consider. Using AirPods Pro 2 can be convenient during online meetings, cell calls, and other situations where you’re already using a device. However, modern hearing aids offer the same functionality, and often with more advanced features tailored for those with hearing loss. AirPods Pro 2 may be a good choice in certain environments or for those who need only mild situational hearing assistance. 

AirPods Pro 2 are not medical devices. They do not protect hearing health or provide ongoing support. In addition, a complete hearing test can only be administered by a trained hearing healthcare professional, ideally an audiologist. Without a proper diagnosis, you may not get the high-quality care you need over a lifetime. 

When it comes to enhancing certain listening experiences, AirPods Pro 2 undoubtedly delivers impressive performance. However, no over-the-counter hearing aid, including AirPods, can replace professionally programmed hearing aids, which are specifically designed to address the unique needs of individuals with hearing loss. 

AirPods Pro 2 vs. Hearing Aids: Which Is Right for You?

In the comparison of hearing aids vs. AirPods Pro 2, there is no question that traditional hearing aids and audiology care provide the best possible support for those with hearing loss. AirPods Pro 2 offers helpful and convenient features that are appropriate for some situations, but these features aren’t a replacement for hearing aids. 

If you are concerned about your hearing health, schedule a hearing test with a qualified audiologist to learn more about your hearing needs and explore customized solutions that go beyond what AirPods Pro 2 can offer. Contact one of three Happy Ears Hearing Centers in Gilbert, AZ, Peoria, AZ, or Surprise, AZ to schedule an appointment.