I bought some new 2nd Gen Airpods late last year hoping they would endure for the rest of time. Someone forgot them in his shorts and they ended up in the wash :( Hands free is important to me and now the microphone doesn't work.

I would prefer to get 2nd generation again because they fit my ear the best. I can go for 4s but they're just a bit big and I'd prefer options for 2nd gen if they were still available!

So I’m sure many people have asked this question before but I want people perspective on my thoughts at least. So I’ve always bought really cheap shitty earbuds for the past idk like 5 years and I’ve burned more money on them than if I owned a pair of AirPods. I make decent money but also a college student (where most of my money goes) and I’m not too fond of shoveling over $150-$200+ for gen 3 or pros just for the extra noise canceling stuff or whatever (also heard the issues with the pro gen 2).

So buying the gen 2 worth it in my case for the next couple years or should go with another known brand like JBL or JLab instead? Or even just buy another cheap pair till the price of the gen 3 goes down?

Edit as more people look at this post:

I’m not too picky on how the sound is or noise canceling abilities, I mainly wear them for music as I bike around or work out. Also have begun to do a lot of calling for my job so a good mic is also a big thing I’m looking for. And if you think there’s another bud (apple or other brand) that’s more suitable for what I’m looking for feel free to lmk what it is as well