Apple gadgets, ranked

Key takeaways

The episode focuses on ranking Apple gadgets based on quality, utility, and personal preference.
The Vision Pro and HomePod faced criticism for their high price and reliance on Siri's performance.
The group felt strongly about the utility of the AirTag, despite its commodity status in the market.
There are varied perspectives on the iPhone's current relevance, with its reliability versus competition being a significant topic.
The Mac was celebrated for its impressive performance and efficiency, ultimately ranking as the top Apple gadget.

Summary

Introduction to Apple's Gadget Rankings

The episode opens with the host, David Pierce, introducing his brand new studio setup while playfully acknowledging its adjacent utility room and guest room status. Then, he transitions into the episode's main theme: ranking Apple's best gadgets. Joining him are Victoria Song and Allison Johnson, who share excitement over the task ahead, contrasting it with a previous episode ranking Google gadgets.

Ranking Methodology and Initial Impressions

As the trio prepares to rank Apple products, they discuss the challenge posed by Apple's extensive range of high-quality gadgets compared to Google. They lay out nine products for consideration: iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, AirPods, Apple TV, HomePod, Vision Pro, and AirTag. The discussions reveal varied approaches to ranking, with each participant expressing initial support for some gadgets while being hesitant about others.

Controversial Rankings: Vision Pro and HomePod

The group's ranking begins with the Vision Pro, which lands in ninth place due to its high price, lack of consumer utility, and being perceived as a developer product. The conversation leads to the HomePod at eighth place, critiqued primarily for its reliance on the poor functionality of Siri and its competition from better-performing smart speakers in the market.

Mid-range Contenders: Apple TV, iPad, and AirTags

As the discussion moves up the list, the group ranks the Apple TV and iPad. Both products are placed lower than expected due to their lack of distinct advantages over competitors or the declining use cases. Then, the AirTag is discussed, with acknowledgment of its utility in tracking personal items, despite being viewed as a commoditized product in a crowded market.

Top Gadgets: Apple Watch, iPhone, Mac, and AirPods

The conversation heats up as they reach the top gadgets: the Apple Watch, iPhone, Mac, and AirPods. Each gadget has a strong following and a history of significant impact. The speakers disagree on the placement of the iPhone, highlighting its iconic status versus its recent shortcomings. Ultimately, the Mac is argued as the best product, praised for its improvement in performance and battery life, while others express strong support for the AirPods as a top contender.

Final Rankings and Closing Thoughts

After several discussions and some disagreements, the group finally settles on a ranking: Mac at number one, AirPods at two, iPhone at three, Apple Watch at four, AirTag at five, iPad at six, Apple TV at seven, HomePod at eight, and Vision Pro at the bottom. They close the episode by encouraging listeners to share thoughts and disagreements on their rankings.

Show notes

Apple makes a lot of gadgets. You've probably heard of some of them. Most of them are very good! Few companies in tech, or anywhere, can claim a track record as impressive and consistent as the folks in Cupertino. But only one Apple product can be the best Apple product. The Verge's Victoria Song and Allison Johnson join David to rank Apple's nine product categories — iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Vision Pro, AirPods, AirTags, HomePod, and Apple TV — in order of their best-ness. The gang agrees on a few, disagrees on a few, and gets in one argument that threatens to end the show forever.We want to hear what you think of our ranking! If you have thoughts, on Apple gadgets or anything, you can always call the Vergecast Hotline at 866-VERGE11 or email us at vergecast@theverge.com.