Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs EarCentric EX2

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 is a budget-priced OTC hearing aid that earns an A grade with a SoundScore of 4.1/5 in our lab testing, placing it in the top 26% of OTC hearing aids tested. At $249, it represents one of the more affordable options in the category while delivering strong overall performance. In our testing, the AirPods Pro 2 shows particular strength in speech clarity for quiet environments, scoring 4.2/5—a strong result that sits 1.38 points above the category average. Music streaming is where this device truly excels, earning 4.4/5 and outperforming the category average by a substantial 2.48 points. Feedback handling is excellent at 5.0/5, meaning users should experience virtually no whistling issues. The device does have limitations. Own-voice comfort scores 1.9/5, which is low in absolute terms and 0.61 points below the category average—users may notice their own voice sounds different or boomy. Speech in noise performance is above average for the category at 2.3/5 (+0.77 points), but this remains a mixed result in absolute terms, suggesting challenging listening environments will still be difficult. The AirPods Pro 2 is best suited for consumers already in the Apple ecosystem who want hearing support primarily in quieter settings and value excellent music and media streaming. Those frequently in noisy environments or sensitive to own-voice changes may want to consider alternatives.

The EarCentric EX2 is a budget-priced prescription behind-the-ear hearing aid released in 2021, earning a C grade with a SoundScore of 2.7/5 in HearAdvisor's lab testing. At $218, it ranks #33 of 36 prescription hearing aids tested, placing it in the bottom 11% of its category. In our testing, the EX2 showed a significant split in performance. Feedback handling was excellent at 4.7/5, essentially matching the category average and demonstrating stable operation during movement. However, speech performance was notably limited, with both speech in quiet and speech in noise scoring 1.0/5—well below the category averages of 3.32 and 1.96 respectively. Music streaming scored 0.0/5, falling 2.64 points below the prescription category average of 2.64/5. Own-voice comfort scored 2.3/5, a mixed result that sits 0.45 points below the category average. The device uses a rechargeable battery, which adds convenience for daily use. Notably, tuning did not improve performance in our testing—the Initial and Tuned fit scores were identical at 2.7/5. Budget-conscious shoppers in this price range may want to compare alternatives. The RxEars Rxi scored 4.09/5 at a similar price point, while OTC options like the Audien Hearing Atom offer comparable or better sound performance at lower prices. The EX2 may suit users who prioritize feedback stability and rechargeable convenience over speech clarity, but its limited speech performance is a significant tradeoff.