# Apple AirPods 5 Review: Why the $149 Model Is the One to Buy

URL: https://technosports.co.in/apple-airpods-5-review-149-model/  
Published: 2026-10-22  
Updated: 2026-10-22  
Author: Reetam Bodhak

Apple’s AirPods 5 are here, and the verdict from [GSMArena’s review](https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_airpods_5_review-news-75101.php) (19 October) is blunt: skip the cheaper version. The $129 model ‘makes no sense’, according to the reviewer, while the **$149** version is the better buy. No India price or launch date was given.

More on this topic: [TechnoSports AirPods 5 coverage](https://technosports.co.in/tag/airpods-5/).

![AirPods](https://technosports.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Apple-Air-Pods-6.jpg)

## Key Details at a Glance

| Spec | AirPods 5 |
| --- | --- |
| US price | $129 / $149 (wireless charging case) |
| Design | Open-ear, same as AirPods 4; IP57 |
| Chip / Bluetooth | Apple H2 / 5.3 |
| Battery, ANC on | 5h 11min measured (5h claimed) |
| Battery, ANC off | 7h 29min measured (7h claimed) |
| 5-minute charge | About 1h 03min with ANC |

## What you get

Features include Spatial Audio with head tracking, Adaptive Audio and Live Translation (beta, 11 languages). The $149 case adds a swipe volume gesture and a speaker for Find My, and supports Qi and Apple Watch chargers but not MagSafe.

## What is missing

The AirPods 5 lack AirPods Pro 3 features such as hearing tests and hearing aid support, a heart-rate sensor and UWB in the case. The reviewer calls battery life the main weakness, though they cost about $100 less than the Pro 3.

## Who should buy

If you want open-ear comfort and tight iPhone integration without paying Pro prices, the $149 model is the pick. See our [Apple coverage](https://technosports.co.in/tag/airpods-5/) and [AirPods on Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AirPods).

## Quick Answers

### Which AirPods 5 should I buy?

The $149 model, per GSMArena.

### Is there an India price?

Not stated in the review.

### Is there MagSafe?

No.

**Source:** [GSMArena](https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_airpods_5_review-news-75101.php).