Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Lucid Hearing Engage

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are wireless earbuds that offer hearing aid functionality. They are suitable for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss and come with features such as Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Transparency, and Conversation Boost, all aimed to improve hearing in various environments.

Lucid Engage is an over-the-counter hearing aid priced at $699 per pair, designed for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. It features Bluetooth streaming, app-controlled personalizable sound settings, and rechargeable batteries, and can be purchased online or in stores like Best Buy, Walmart, and Sam's Club.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 achieved a SoundScore of 3.56/5 and a SoundGrade of B in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #27 of 61 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.47/5.

Lucid Engage achieved a SoundScore of 4.49/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #5 of 61 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.47/5.

The build quality is solid with a sleek case, but the IP54 rating means they are not as water-resistant as you might expect. People commonly report them lasting 2-3 years, which is conveniently consistent with Apple's product cycles.

Engage has an ingress rating of IP22 indicating it does not offer the greatest protection against moisture and debris. T

Airpods Pro Gen 2 battery life is disappointingly short at around 6 hours, less based on usage and settings. However, they recharge quickly in the case which works well as they are more intended for situational use.

With a reported battery life of up to 20 hours you should make it through the day on a single charge. One downside though is the case does not have a power bank and must be plugged in to charge.

I have found Bluetooth to work almost flawlessly on iPhones, offering a solid connection every time. I can't speak for Android devices though Apple reports they are fully compatible with other Bluetooth devices.

Engage's audio streaming is not the highest fidelity but it works with both iOS and Android mobile devices. Hands-free calling is not available at this time.

AirPods Pro 2 offer impressive and useful features for an advanced earbud. I particularly like the ability to take an app based hearing test, or directly upload hearing thresholds. While the menu system is not user-friendly, you also have other options for personalizing your experience such as active noise cancellation.

Lucid's app offers many useful features, like the 7-band equalizer LucidShape, and recently received an update improving the overall appearance. You will definitely want to use the app to get the most out of Engage hearing aids.

I find them generally comfortable but have experienced some ear soreness with long-term use. Some people have also noted struggling with keeping them in place however, this will depend on your ears and uses.

Engage is lightweight and fit comfortably like other behind-the-ear style hearing aids. Their licensed professionals can help if you need assistance with comfort or ear tip selection.

Like most Apple products, Airpods Pro are iconic. They are very noticeable due to their brilliant white color and shape. While your opinion may differ, most people regard them as stylish and well designed.

Engage are not the most sleek or modern looking hearing aids but they are small enough where they remain mostly invisible behind your ear.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 has a value score of 4.7/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Lucid Engage has a value score of 4.4/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

I find Bluetooth pairing and general use exceptionally easy. However, navigating the deeper personalization features, and touch controls, could be more user friendly.

Engage are straightforward and offer decent button controls, though you will want to install the associated app. If this is your first time wearing RIC, or receiver-in-canal, devices, contact their support team for guidance on proper wear.

These are advanced earbuds, not hearing aids, so expect only tech support from Apple’s customer service.

Lucid is a step above some other OTC companies as they offer lifetime support from licensed professionals. This is not the same as in person can but it is a great addition even for those familiar with hearing aids.