Should You Buy 1st Gen AirPods in [Current Year]? Is It Still

Should You Buy 1st Gen AirPods in [Current Year]? Is It Still Worth It?

You’re staring at a "too good to be true" deal on first-generation AirPods or even AirPods Pro. Maybe it’s a clearance sale, a refurbished unit, or a friend offloading an old pair. With a tight budget, the idea of owning iconic Apple earbuds for a fraction of the original cost is tempting. But before you click "buy" or hand over your cash, it's crucial to ask: Should you buy 1st Gen AirPods in [Current Year]?
The short answer, for most people, is probably not. And there are compelling reasons why investing in a device that’s officially 'vintage' might lead to more frustration than savings.

At a Glance: 1st Gen AirPods in [Current Year]

Vintage Status: Officially designated 'vintage' by Apple, meaning limited or no official repair support.
Battery Degradation: The biggest issue. Expect significantly reduced battery life, often just an hour or two on a charge. Replacements are expensive and often not worth it.
Missing Features: No Spatial Audio, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Transparency Mode, or the advanced H1/H2 chip features found in newer models.
Sound Quality: Still decent for casual listening, but not on par with newer generations or many budget alternatives today.
Connectivity: Uses the older W1 chip, which is still reliable but not as fast or efficient as the H1 or H2.
Hygiene Risk: Especially with used units, cleanliness and earwax buildup can be a concern.
Verdict: Generally, avoid for daily use due to battery limitations and lack of modern features. Only consider if it's a near-giveaway and your needs are extremely basic.

Understanding "Vintage": Why Apple's Label Matters

Apple's designation of the first-generation AirPods as 'vintage' isn't just a nostalgic nod; it's a practical warning. A product earns the 'vintage' label when Apple stopped selling it more than five years ago but less than seven years ago.
For you, the potential buyer, this has direct implications:

Limited Repair Options: While Apple Stores might still perform repairs for vintage products for up to two years after they hit the vintage list, this is always "subject to inventory." Translation: parts are scarce. If a critical component fails – say, the charging case or a single earbud – you might be out of luck, even if you’re willing to pay for a repair.
Obsolete Status Looms: The clock is ticking. After a product is seven years past its last sale date, it becomes 'obsolete.' Once obsolete, Apple Stores will no longer perform any repairs, period. Given the first AirPods were released in December 2016, they are rapidly approaching or entering this 'obsolete' window depending on the exact purchase date.
No New Software Features: Forget about new software updates that add features or significantly improve performance. Any future advancements in audio technology or seamless integration will be reserved for newer hardware.
This 'vintage' status is a clear signal from Apple: these devices are past their prime. While they might still work, expecting long-term reliability or repairability is unrealistic. You can dive deeper into the technical specifications and original capabilities with Your guide to first-gen AirPods.

Decoding Your Scenario: AirPods 1st Gen vs. AirPods Pro 1st Gen

It’s important to clarify the exact model you're considering. The keyword for this article focuses on "1st Gen AirPods," which refers to the original, non-Pro model with a hard plastic tip and no Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
However, your specific query mentions considering a "clearance AirPods Pro 1st Gen" that was "purchased around two years ago." This distinction is critical:

AirPods (1st Gen): Released December 2016. These are the ones hitting the full 'vintage' wall now. They never had ANC, Transparency, or silicone tips.
AirPods Pro (1st Gen): Released October 2019. While also technically a "1st Gen" of its Pro line, it's much newer than the original AirPods. These units are not currently vintage by Apple's definition. They feature ANC, Transparency Mode, Spatial Audio, and adaptive EQ, powered by the H1 chip.
If you're looking at a clearance AirPods Pro 1st Gen:
The repair window is longer, and the features are significantly more advanced. However, buying a used clearance unit (even if "only two years old" from the seller's purchase date) still comes with a massive caveat: battery health.
Regardless of whether it's original AirPods or AirPods Pro, the primary concern for any used or older wireless earbud is the battery.

The Silent Killer: Battery Degradation

This is, without a doubt, the single biggest reason to hesitate when buying any older generation of truly wireless earbuds, especially AirPods. Lithium-ion batteries degrade over time, losing capacity with every charge cycle.

Original AirPods (1st Gen): Released in 2016, a new pair offered up to 5 hours of listening. By [Current Year], any first-gen AirPods will be 7-8 years old. Expect their batteries to be severely degraded. We're talking 60-90 minutes of listening, possibly less. This isn't just an inconvenience; it makes them practically unusable for anything beyond short calls or a quick podcast.
AirPods Pro (1st Gen): While newer (released 2019), a unit purchased two years ago by the seller means it's already spent a good chunk of its life cycle. If it was used frequently, its battery health will definitely be compromised. A new pair offered 4.5 hours of ANC listening. A two-year-old, frequently used pair might deliver 2-3 hours, or even less, especially if it's been sitting in clearance for a while without proper charging cycles.
Why battery life is a deal-breaker:
You can't easily replace the batteries in AirPods. Apple's "battery service" often means replacing the entire earbud (or case), which is nearly the cost of a new pair, if parts are even available for vintage models. For AirPods 1st Gen, this service is likely not offered or prohibitively expensive. For AirPods Pro 1st Gen, it might be an option, but again, the cost-benefit ratio is poor.
Think about it: what's the point of "saving" money if your earbuds die halfway through your commute or workout?

Beyond Battery: What Else Are You Missing (or Gaining)?

Let's break down the feature set and performance you'd get (or miss out on) with older AirPods, keeping both 1st Gen AirPods and 1st Gen AirPods Pro in mind.

Audio Quality and Features

AirPods (1st Gen):
Sound: Decent for casual listening, clear vocals, but limited bass and soundstage. No active noise cancellation (ANC) or transparency mode.
Microphone: Good for calls in quiet environments, but struggles with background noise.
Features: Basic auto-pause, double-tap controls, seamless pairing with Apple devices (thanks to the W1 chip). That's about it.
AirPods Pro (1st Gen):
Sound: Significantly better than original AirPods, with deeper bass and clearer highs.
ANC: Still quite effective, a major selling point.
Transparency Mode: Excellent for hearing your surroundings without removing earbuds.
Spatial Audio: Immersive listening experience with dynamic head tracking for supported content.
Adaptive EQ: Automatically tunes music to the shape of your ear.
Microphone: Also superior, better at isolating your voice.
Fit: Silicone ear tips for a more secure and comfortable seal.
Verdict on Features: If you're considering the original 1st Gen AirPods, you're missing out on nearly all modern earbud features. For the AirPods Pro 1st Gen, the features are still very relevant, but the battery concern remains paramount.

Connectivity and Performance

Both generations offer reliable Bluetooth connectivity within the Apple ecosystem.

AirPods (1st Gen): Features the W1 chip. This chip was revolutionary for its time, enabling instant pairing and seamless switching between Apple devices. It's still a solid performer for basic connectivity.
AirPods Pro (1st Gen): Uses the H1 chip, which offers even faster connection times, lower audio latency, and "Hey Siri" support. This chip is still present in the AirPods 2nd Gen, making it a very capable core.
Verdict on Connectivity: Both are generally fine. You won't notice a huge difference in basic pairing, but the H1 chip (in AirPods Pro 1st Gen and AirPods 2nd Gen) offers minor speed improvements and better integration with voice assistants.

Fit and Comfort

AirPods (1st Gen): Hard plastic, one-size-fits-most design. For some, it's incredibly comfortable; for others, it constantly falls out or causes discomfort. There's no seal, so passive noise isolation is minimal.
AirPods Pro (1st Gen): Features soft, interchangeable silicone ear tips in various sizes. This allows for a customizable, secure fit and is crucial for the effectiveness of ANC. Most find them more comfortable and secure for activities like jogging.
Verdict on Fit: This is highly personal. If the original AirPods design fits you perfectly, that's a plus. But the AirPods Pro's silicone tips generally offer a more versatile and stable fit for more people.

The Used Clearance Quandary: Beyond Age

Buying any electronic device, especially earbuds, through clearance or from a second-hand seller adds layers of risk:

Unknown Usage History: How many charge cycles has the battery endured? Was it kept in extreme temperatures? Was it dropped? You simply don't know, and a seller's "two years old" could mean two years of heavy daily use or occasional use.
Hygiene: Earbuds go in your ears. A used pair, especially if not meticulously cleaned, can harbor earwax, dirt, and bacteria. While you can clean them, it's an added chore and a potential health concern. This is even more true for AirPods Pro with their silicone tips which collect more residue.
Warranty: Most likely none, or very limited from a third-party seller. Any issues you encounter will be entirely on you.
Authenticity: Especially with older generations, counterfeit AirPods are common. Ensure you're buying from a reputable source if you proceed.
For a true deep dive into what to look for when buying used AirPods, it's worth checking out resources on identifying genuine products and assessing wear and tear.

Crunching the Numbers: When to Wait, When to Buy

Your tight budget is understandable, and it's smart to look for value. But "value" isn't just about the lowest price tag; it's about what you get for that price over the product's usable lifespan.
Considering 1st Gen AirPods (Original):

Current Price: Likely under $50, possibly even free.
Usable Lifespan: Extremely limited due to battery. You're buying something that might only last a few more months (or weeks) before the battery makes it unusable.
Verdict: Only if they are practically free and you only need them for very short, infrequent listening sessions, and you have zero expectations of modern features or repair support. Even then, it's a hard sell. Your money is almost always better spent elsewhere.
Considering 1st Gen AirPods Pro (from your specific scenario):
Current Price (Clearance/Used): This is where it gets tricky. If they're significantly cheaper than new AirPods 2nd Gen, it's tempting. But what's the exact price?
Usable Lifespan: Battery degradation is still the primary concern. While the features are excellent, a severely degraded battery negates their value. A unit purchased ~2 years ago by the seller is already showing significant age for its battery.
Verdict: Only consider if:

The price is exceptionally low (e.g., under $80-$100 USD).
You can verify the battery health (e.g., test them extensively before buying, check the "About" section in iOS settings if connected to an iPhone, although this doesn't show a precise percentage for individual AirPods).
You understand you're buying a device that, while feature-rich, is on a limited battery lifespan countdown.
You absolutely need ANC/Transparency and a newer AirPods Pro model is out of budget.

Why Waiting for 2nd Gen AirPods Sales is Often Wiser

The AirPods 2nd Generation (released 2019, but still widely available and often on sale) are powered by the same H1 chip as the AirPods Pro 1st Gen. They offer:

"Hey Siri" support.
Faster connection and switching.
Comparable battery life to the original 1st Gen AirPods when new (up to 5 hours).
Crucially, they are new, meaning a full warranty and pristine battery life from day one.
Price: Often drop to around $99-$119 USD during sales events, making them a fantastic entry-level option for the Apple ecosystem.
Comparing a new AirPods 2nd Gen (with a full battery and warranty) to a used AirPods Pro 1st Gen (with potentially compromised battery and no warranty) at a similar price point, the new AirPods 2nd Gen often represents far better long-term value, even if you miss out on ANC.

Smart Alternatives When Every Dollar Counts

If your budget is tight and older AirPods aren't cutting it, the good news is the wireless earbud market has exploded with excellent, affordable options. You don't have to sacrifice quality or features.

Sticking with Apple (Newer, Budget-Friendly):

AirPods (2nd Generation): As discussed, these are your best bet for a new, entry-level Apple experience. They regularly go on sale, offering the core "AirPods experience" without the battery anxiety of older models. They lack ANC but provide solid sound and seamless Apple integration.
AirPods (3rd Generation): A step up from the 2nd Gen, offering Spatial Audio, adaptive EQ, and a slightly redesigned fit (closer to the Pro without the tips). They also have better battery life and water resistance. They're more expensive than 2nd Gen, but still less than AirPods Pro, and can be found on sale.

Excellent Non-Apple Alternatives (Often More Feature-Rich for the Price):

If you're willing to step outside the Apple ecosystem, you can get incredible value, especially if ANC and sound quality are priorities. These options are particularly strong alternatives to the AirPods Pro, which you mentioned.

Anker Soundcore Series (e.g., Liberty 4 NC, Space A40): Anker's Soundcore brand consistently delivers exceptional value. Their earbuds often feature great sound, very effective ANC, long battery life, and comfortable fits, all at aggressive price points (often $70-$150). They are often praised for their battery performance and customizability through their app.
Jabra Elite Series (e.g., Elite 4 Active, Elite 5): Known for excellent call quality, comfortable fit, and robust build. Jabra earbuds are often great for active users and offer good sound and ANC in their mid-range models.
EarFun Air Pro 3: Often highlighted as a budget king for ANC. These earbuds deliver surprisingly good active noise cancellation, solid sound, and good battery life for under $100.
OnePlus Buds Series: If you're an Android user, OnePlus offers great integration and strong audio performance, often with features like ANC and Warp Charge for quick power-ups.
Google Pixel Buds A-Series: For Android users, these offer seamless integration with Android phones, a comfortable fit, and good sound quality. They lack ANC but are very reliable and affordable.
Sony WF-C700N: A fantastic entry-level ANC option from Sony, known for its audio prowess. They offer solid noise cancellation and Sony's signature sound quality at a more accessible price point than their flagship models.
Consider Wired Earbuds for Extreme Budget Constraints:
If your budget is truly minimal (under $30), don't dismiss quality wired earbuds from brands like Moondrop (e.g., Chu 2), KZ, or even Apple's own EarPods. You gain lossless audio (if your device supports it), never worry about charging, and get reliable performance for very little money.

Making Your Best Move: A Final Thought

The appeal of a clearance deal on AirPods, especially the Pro models, is undeniable. But as a seasoned journalist digging into the facts, the recommendation for 1st Gen AirPods (original, non-Pro) in [Current Year] is a firm no for almost everyone. The battery degradation alone makes them a short-term, frustrating purchase.
For 1st Gen AirPods Pro, the decision is slightly more nuanced due to their superior features, but still heavily leans towards caution. The key differentiator is the battery. Unless you can verify excellent battery health and the price is truly a steal, the risks outweigh the benefits.
Your tight budget is best served by investing in a new device that will last and perform reliably. This could be:

A new pair of AirPods 2nd Gen during a sale, offering full warranty and battery life.
A highly-rated non-Apple alternative that provides excellent features like ANC and superior sound at a similar or lower price point, without the hidden costs of battery woes or unknown usage history.
Don't let the allure of a cheap Apple logo blind you to the real value equation. In [Current Year], choosing wisely means prioritizing longevity, reliable performance, and a full feature set that genuinely enhances your listening experience, rather than struggling with a device on its last legs.