Choosing between Xiaomi AirDots Pro 2 and Xiaomi AirDots Pro 2S is easy to get confused — the names are almost identical, and the headphones look like twins. However, under the hood hides key differences that affect sound, running time and even comfort of use. This article will help you figure out whether to overpay for the 2S model, or Pro 2 is enough for your tasks.
Both are mid-range and are marketed as a one-stop solution for music, calls and sports. But while AirDots Pro 2 was released in 2020 and became a hit due to its price-performance balance, AirDots Pro 2S (2021) has seen a number of improvements, from upgrades to chipset support to new codec support, and let’s see how critical these changes are for the user.
1. Design and Ergonomics: What has changed on the outside?
At first glance, the AirDots Pro 2 and AirDots Pro 2S are virtually indistinguishable: the same compact, touch-controlled body, an oval shape and three sizes of silicone embroideries included.
- 🎨 Color options: Pro 2 is available only in black and white, while Pro is available only in black and white. 2S added a shade of "Midnight Black" with a matte coating, less stamps in practice.
- 🔄 Weight and landing: Pro 2S 0.3 grams lighter (4.5 g vs. 4.8 g in the Pro 2), which is almost imperceptible, but combined with a slightly modified shape of the bottles improves long-term comfort.
- 💧 Moisture Protection: Both models are certified IPX4, but in Pro 2S Condensed contacts of the charging case are better protected from sweating.
The cases on the headphones are identical in size, but the Pro 2S has added a charge indicator on the front panel (the Pro 2 only has it inside, under the lid), which is convenient for quick check without opening the case.
Sound characteristics: AAC codec vs.
The main difference between the models is in the audio codecs: AirDots Pro 2 supports only AAC and, whereas Pro 2S received an advanced LHDC (Low-Latency High-Definition Audio Codec).
- 🎵 Sound quality: LHDC transmits audio with a bitrate of up to 900 kbit / s (vs. 256 kbit / s y) AAC), This is a great way to improve the detailing at high and low frequencies, especially for classical music lovers or high-quality podcasts.
- ⚡ Latency: In games or when watching videos LHDC reduces delay to ~40 ms. AAC — ~100-150 The difference is critical for shooters or rhythm games.
- 📱 Compatibility: LHDC It only works with Android 8.0 devices.+ (And not all of them. On iPhones or old Pro smartphones. 2S switch automatically AAC, lose.
Important: for activation LHDC pro 2S you need to manually select the codec in the Bluetooth settings on the smartphone (path: Settings) → Bluetooth → The gear badge next to AirDots Pro 2S → Audio codec. The default is AAC.
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To check the current codec on Android, install the Bluetooth Codec Checker app from Google Play. It will show the bitrate and connection type in real time.
3. Autonomy and charging: who lives longer?
Official data from Xiaomi promises the same running time — up to 7 hours on a single charge and up to 28 hours with a case.
| Parameter | AirDots Pro 2 | AirDots Pro 2S |
|---|---|---|
| Opening time (AAC, 50% volume) | 6 hours 15 minutes | 6:40 min. |
| Opening hours (calls) | 4:30 min. | 5 p.m. |
| Time to fully charge the case | 2 hours 10 minutes | 1 hour 50 minutes |
| Type of connector | USB-C | USB-C (with fast charging support 5V/1.2A) |
The reason for the difference is the Qualcomm QCC3040 optimized chipset in the Pro 2S (versus the Realtek RTL8763B in the Pro 2).It is not only more energy efficient, but also better manages power at low charge. For example, the Pro 2 begins to wheez on the last 10% of the battery, and the Pro 2S maintains stable quality to full discharge.
⚠️ Note: If you use headphones for long calls (for example, for work), note that the microphones in the Pro are used for long calls. 2S In Pro 2, after 1.5-2 hours of continuous talk, overheating protection can work, temporarily disabling one of the headphones.
4. Microphones and call quality: who better at suppressing noise?
Both models feature dual microphones with cVc 8.0 noise reduction technology, but the implementation is different:
- 🎤 Sensitivity of microphones: In Pro 2S microphones are positioned at a different angle, which improves voice capture and reduces the effect of side wind.
- 🔇 Noise reduction algorithms: Pro 2S Use updated firmware with support AI-filtering that better copes with background music or street noise.
- 📞 Mono-connection: In Pro 2, when one earphone is removed, the second automatically turns off. 2S You can continue the conversation on one headphone (useful for drivers).
Tests in noisy conditions (metro, street c) showed that the interlocutor hears you 20-30% clearer in Pro 2S. However, if you call mainly in quiet rooms, the difference will be minimal.
How to check the quality of the microphone?
5. Control and function: what do headphones do?
Touch control in both models is implemented the same (touch, swipe), but Pro 2S received several additional chips:
- 🎧 Game mode: Triple-touch activated (in Pro 2, double/single only) Reduces latency to ~60ms even without. LHDC.
- 🔊 Equalizer setting: In the Mi Home app for Pro 2S 12 preset profiles are available (Pro 2 has only 3 basic profiles).
- 🔋 Automatic shutdown: Pro 2S turn off after 5 minutes without connection (Pro 2 – after 10 minutes), which saves charge.
Both models support voice assistants (Google Assistant, Siri) but in Pro. 2S Added double-touch activation (in Pro 2, voice only). 2S can automatically connect to the last device when opening the case (in Pro 2 you need to manually select headphones in the Bluetooth list).
Make sure your smartphone supports LHDC |
Compare prices on official and unofficial sites |
Check the complete set (ambushes, USB-C cable) |
Pay attention to the date of production (fresh lots are less likely to be married)
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6. Compatibility and features of connection
Both models work with any device via Bluetooth 5.0, but there are nuances:
- 📱 Android: On smartphones Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO s MIUI 12+ Extended settings (equalizer, firmware) are available. Other Android devices are limited to basic options.
- 🍎 iPhone: Both models work on iOS only through AAC, supportless LHDC Xiaomi's signature chips, the difference between Pro 2 and Pro 2S Reduces to design and autonomy time.
- 💻 PC/Laptop: On Windows 10/11 You may need to manually install the driver for LHDC (Download from Qualcomm website).
Important: When you first connect the Pro 2S to a Xiaomi device, the firmware with the latest fixes is automatically installed. For the Pro 2, you need to manually check the update in the Mi Home app.
⚠️ Note: If you use headphones with a MacBook or iPad, note that Pro 2S may periodically "slow down" the sound due to conflict with the optimizations of Apple AAC. Solution: Disable the Bluetooth option "High-quality audio".
7.Price and what to choose in 2026?
As of the update (June 2026), the average prices in the market are as follows:
- 💰 Xiaomi AirDots Pro 2: 2 500–3 200 ₽ (new), 1,800–2,300 ₽ (b).
- 💰 Xiaomi AirDots Pro 2S: 3 500–4 200 ₽ (new), 2,500-3,000 ₽ (b).
Who will be the right AirDots Pro 2:
- 🎶 Music lovers without claims to Hi-Res audio.
- 📱 Owners of iPhone or old Android smartphones (up to Android 8.0).
- 💸 Those looking for a budget solution with a good balance of price and quality.
Who should buy AirDots Pro 2S?
- 🎮 Gamers (due to low latency and game mode).
- 🏃♂️ Athletes (best water protection and microphone stability).
- 🎧 Music lovers with devices on Android 10+, supportive LHDC.
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If your smartphone doesn’t support LHDC, overpaying for the Pro 2S doesn’t make sense – the difference comes down to design and a couple of hours of autonomy.