The Dash vs AirPods (1st Generation)
The Dash
2016 · $149 today
5633
AirPods (1st Generation)
2016 · $99 today
6342
Dashed outline = score at launch
Why The Dash is better
No standout numeric advantages.
Why AirPods (1st Generation) is better
- Earbud Playtime: 5 hrs vs 3 hrs(1.7× more)
- Weight (each): 4 g vs 6.5 g(1.6× less)
- Bluetooth Version: 4.2 (W1 chip) vs 4.0(5% more)
Verdict
AirPods (1st Generation) leads outright in 4 of 6 dimensions today.
Spec by spec
| Spec | The Dash | AirPods (1st Generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Onboard Storage | 4 GB | — |
| Active Noise Cancelling | No | No |
| Battery | ||
| Earbud Playtime | 3 hrs | 5 hrs● |
| Total With Cradle | 6 hrs | — |
| Total With Case | — | 24 hrs |
| Fit & Build | ||
| Weight (each) | 6.5 g | 4 g● |
| Water Resistance | IPX7 | None |
| Features & Connectivity | ||
| Bluetooth Version | 4.0 | 4.2 (W1 chip)● |
| Controls | Touch + gesture sensors | Double-tap |
| Standalone Playback | Yes (onboard storage) | — |
| Voice Assistant | — | Siri (manual activation) |