Choosing the right AirPods isn’t just about sound—it’s about finding the perfect match for your iPhone. With Apple’s latest lineup of AirPods, each model complements a specific type of iPhone user. Whether you’re rocking an older iPhone or the latest flagship, here’s how to pick the best AirPods for your setup.
AirPods 3 + iPhone SE (2022), iPhone 11, iPhone 12 Mini
Best for: Budget-conscious users who want solid audio and deep Apple ecosystem integration.
The AirPods 3 are the perfect entry-level AirPods for users who don’t need Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Their open-ear design delivers rich spatial audio, but they won’t block out background noise. Paired with an iPhone SE (2022), iPhone 11, or iPhone 12 Mini, you get a compact Apple experience with great sound at a reasonable price.
- Pros: Affordable, great battery life, comfortable fit
- Cons: No ANC, may struggle in noisy environments
AirPods 4 + iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15
Best for: Everyday users who want better sound with optional ANC.
The AirPods 4 come in two variants—one with ANC and one without. If you use an iPhone 13, iPhone 14, or even the base iPhone 15, these AirPods offer an upgraded listening experience without going full Pro. If you want noise cancellation but don’t like in-ear silicone tips, the AirPods 4 with ANC provide a middle ground.
- Pros: Updated design, optional ANC, improved sound quality
- Cons: ANC isn’t as strong as Pro models
AirPods Pro + iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro
Best for: Users who want premium noise cancellation without the latest tech.
The first-generation AirPods Pro brought Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to Apple’s earbuds lineup. If you’re using an iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro, these AirPods still deliver an immersive listening experience at a slightly lower cost than the newer Pro 2. They’re perfect if you want ANC but don’t need the latest enhancements.
- Pros: Strong noise cancellation, great audio quality, Transparency mode
- Cons: Older tech compared to AirPods Pro 2
AirPods Pro 2 + iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 16, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max
Best for: Power users who want the absolute best Apple audio experience.
The AirPods Pro 2 are the ultimate companion for the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, and the latest iPhone 16, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max offering top-tier Adaptive Transparency, superior ANC, and USB-C charging. If you plan to upgrade to the iPhone 16, the AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C variant) will seamlessly integrate into the future of Apple’s ecosystem.
- Pros: Best-in-class ANC, Adaptive Transparency, USB-C charging, Find My speaker in case
- Cons: Higher price
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
- Budget-friendly & casual listening? → AirPods 3 + iPhone SE, 11, or 12 Mini
- Balanced choice with optional ANC? → AirPods 4 + iPhone 13, 14, or 15
- Noise cancellation without breaking the bank? → AirPods Pro + iPhone 13 Pro or 14 Pro
- Best Apple audio experience? → AirPods Pro 2 + iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
No matter your choice, pairing the right AirPods with your iPhone ensures you get the best performance out of both devices. If you’re looking ahead to the iPhone 17 series, the AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C variant) is the safest bet to stay future-proof.
Which AirPods are you picking? Let us know in the comments!
