The PerfectRec Earbuds or Headphones team Learn more
Updated April 10, 2024·
If you prioritize wireless convenience, seamless integration with Apple devices, and a compact form that's great for calls and on-the-go use, the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) are a good choice, despite their higher price. They also have features like ear detection and a very portable case. However, if you're on a budget and prefer a wired connection that's also suitable for live monitoring, the KZ ZSN Pro X could serve you well, especially if you're interested in customizable cables and better durability, though they lack the advanced features like wireless charging and app integration that the Airpods offer. For activities like exercise and travel, the Airpods might be more suitable due to their design and better portability. Give Feedback
this description is based on the product variant with some specs and product variant with some specs. At the time of writing, the variant with some specs cost some dollars and the variant with some specs cost some dollars.
Advantages of the Apple Airpods (2nd generation)
Very good for podcasts and audiobooks
Advantages of the KZ ZSN Pro X
Good for music
Good for TV and video
Key differences
Music
5.8/10
7.0/10
The KZ ZSN Pro X is good for music, while the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is poor.
Gaming
4.8/10
5.9/10
The KZ ZSN Pro X and Apple Airpods (2nd generation) are both poor for gaming, though the KZ ZSN Pro X is somewhat better.
Phone Calls
6.9/10
3.1/10
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is only fair for phone calls, while the KZ ZSN Pro X is poor.
Podcasts and Audiobooks
8.1/10
4.7/10
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is very good for podcasts and audiobooks, while the KZ ZSN Pro X is poor.
TV and Video
5.4/10
7.3/10
The KZ ZSN Pro X is good for TV and video, while the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is poor.
Noise Reduction
2.5/10
6.0/10
The KZ ZSN Pro X is only fair for noise reduction, while the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is poor.
Battery
4.0 Hours
N/A
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) has 4 hours of battery life. The KZ ZSN Pro X does not have a battery.
Cost
$89
$22
$0
$50
$100
$150
$200
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) has a price of $89 and the KZ ZSN Pro X costs $22.
Build Quality
7.6/10
8.5/10
The KZ ZSN Pro X has very good build quality, while the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) has good build quality.
"The KZ ZSN PRO X offers superb sound for very little money, like under $30 USD. It has some rough edges with a plastic seam on the cable that can rub on your ear, and the bud is a bit large. The tech isn't cutting edge, but new doesn't always equal better. You should try it."
Get a great deal on the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) or the KZ ZSN Pro X
About Apple
Apple Inc. is an American technology company, founded in 1976, known for its wide range of premium products, including smartphones, computers, and audio solutions. Apple offers the very popular personal audio line AirPods, highly regarded for their wireless, smart capabilities and their seamless integration with the iPhone, iPad and Mac devices. They provide a high-quality sound, comfort and lifestyle features perfect for all users invested in their ecosystem.
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This information was produced and vetted by the PerfectRec earbuds & headphones team. We are a product research and recommendation organization that meticulously reviews and evaluates the latest earbuds or headphones information and makes it digestible for you.
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About the Earbuds or Headphones team
Joe Golden, Ph.D
CEO and Earbuds and Headphones Editor
Joe is an entrepreneur and lifelong electronics enthusiast with a Ph.D in Economics from the University of Michigan.
Jason Lew
Staff Expert & Software Engineer
Jason is a staff expert and software engineer that has been making laptop recommendations for 7 years and moderates one of the largest laptop subreddits.
Chandradeep Chowdhury
Staff Expert & Software Engineer
Chandradeep is a staff expert and software engineer and expert in televisions and monitors. He’s been making monitor recommendations for ten years.
Luis Torres
Earbuds and Headphones Expert
Luis is a Mexico-based headphones expert. He’s been making headphone recommendations for five years and has close to 100 pairs in his personal collection.