Can I use my AirPod pros as earplugs?

Answered by Tom Adger

You can definitely use your AirPods Pro as earplugs to some extent. While they are primarily designed for audio playback, they do offer a feature called Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that can help reduce ambient noise and provide a more immersive listening experience.

ANC works by using microphones on the outside of the AirPods Pro to pick up background noise. The AirPods Pro then generate opposite frequencies to cancel out those sounds, effectively blocking them from reaching your ears. This feature is similar to how noise-canceling headphones work, but in a much smaller and more portable form factor.

When you activate ANC on your AirPods Pro, you’ll notice a significant reduction in the amount of ambient noise you hear. This can be particularly useful in loud environments such as trains, planes, and city streets, where background noise can often interfere with your listening enjoyment. By using the AirPods Pro as earplugs, you can create a quieter and more focused listening environment.

However, it’s important to note that while the AirPods Pro can help reduce external noise, they may not completely block out all sounds. The effectiveness of ANC can vary depending on the type and intensity of the ambient noise. It works best for constant low-frequency sounds like engine noise or air conditioning hum, but may not be as effective for sudden or high-pitched noises.

Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that the AirPods Pro’s ANC technology is primarily optimized for audio playback rather than providing complete sound isolation. So, if your main goal is to block out all sounds for sleep or complete silence, dedicated earplugs or noise-canceling headphones might be more suitable options.

While the AirPods Pro can be used as earplugs to reduce ambient noise and create a more immersive listening experience, they may not provide the same level of sound isolation as dedicated earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. However, they can still be quite effective in many loud situations and offer a convenient and portable solution for enjoying your favorite music, audiobooks, or podcasts.