If you're trying to decide between Apple'sAirPods 3 and itsAirPods Pro 2, there are two major questions you should ask yourself: How badly do you want active noise cancellation, and are you willing to pay more for it?
Apple has gradually bridged the gap between its Pro and regular AirPods by bringing a more compact design and water resistance to the newest version of its standard-issue earbuds. But there are still certain benefits you can only get on the $249 AirPods Pro, the biggest being active noise cancellation and transparency mode. Multiple ear tip sizes, the ability to swipe up and down to control music volume and ultra wideband support are also exclusive to the Pro model. But noise cancellation will likely make the biggest impact in everyday use, and it's the most important factor to consider.
AirPods Pro 2 vs. AirPods 3
| | AirPods Pro 2 | AirPods 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price (USD) | $249 | $169 (Lightning case) |
| Price (UK) | £249 | £179 (Lightning case) |
| Price (AU) | AU$399 | AU$279 (Lightning case) |
| Weight (earbuds) | 0.19-ounce | 0.15-ounce |
| Audio features | Active noise cancellation, Adaptive transparency, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking | Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking |
| Audio technology | Adaptive EQ, custom high-excursion Apple driver, custom high dynamic range amplifier, vent system for pressure equalization | Adaptive EQ, custom high-excursion Apple driver, custom high dynamic range amplifier |
| Durability | IPX4 sweat and water resistant | IPX4 sweat and water resistant |
| Charging | MagSafe or Lightning | MagSafe or Lightning (extra $10 for MagSafe case) |
| Multiple ear tips | Yes | No |
| Chip | H2 chip, U1 chip in charging case | H1 chip |
| Battery life (earbuds) | 6 hours of listening time | 6 hours of listening time |
| Battery life (case) | 30 hours of listening time | 30 hours of listening time |
| Microphones | Dual beamforming microphones; inward-facing microphone | Dual beamforming microphones; inward-facing microphone |
| Sensors | Skin detect sensor, motion detecting accelerometer, speech detecting accelerometer, touch control | Skin detect sensor, motion detecting accelerometer, speech detecting accelerometer, Force sensor |
| Controls | Hey Siri, touch controls | Hey Siri, Force sensor |
AirPods Pro 2 vs. AirPods 3: Design and case
The biggest difference in terms of design is that the $169 AirPods don't have interchangeable silicone tips like the AirPods Pro 2, which include four sizes to choose from. The AirPods 3 are also lighter than the AirPods Pro 2 at 0.15-ounce versus 0.19-ounce.
The AirPods 3 and new AirPods Pro share some similarities when it comes to design, although it's very easy to tell them apart. The AirPods Pro 2's stems, for example, are noticeably shorter than those on the AirPods 3. But both models are sweat and water resistant, which could make them more appealing than the $129 regular AirPods for those who want to wear them during exercise.
The case for the AirPods 3 sort of looks like a cross between the case for the standard AirPods and that of the AirPods Pro. It's much shorter and wider than the entry-level AirPods case, but it's not as wide as the holster for the AirPods Pro. You can also charge the case for the AirPods 3 or the AirPods Pro via Apple's wireless MagSafe charger, or by plugging it in with a Lightning cable. But you'll have to pay an extra $10 to get the MagSafe wireless charging case bundled with the AirPods 3. The MagSafe-compatible case for the AirPods Pro 2 also has a lanyard loop, unlike the AirPods 3's case.
The second-generation AirPods Pro's case also has another capability: ultra wideband support. That essentially means the case has a built-in AirTag for easier location tracking.
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AirPods Pro 2 vs. AirPods 3: Audio
You'll still have to splurge on Apple's top-of-the-line earbuds to get active noise cancellation and transparency mode. Since the second-generation AirPods Pro have Apple's new H2 chip, they can cancel up to twice as much noise as the previous AirPods Pro, according to Apple's claims. Transparency Mode has also gotten an upgrade on the second-generation model. The new chip can reduce loud noises from your surroundings when in Transparency Mode, which should make sounds like a passing vehicle seem less jarring.
That new H2 chip also brings improved audio to the AirPods Pro 2, further distinguishing them from the AirPods 3. As my colleague David Carnoy wrote in his review, the H2's computational power helps the AirPods Pro process a broader range of frequencies.
You'll also get swipe controls for managing volume levels on the AirPods Pro 2. The AirPods 3 just have Apple's force sensors, which you can press to skip ahead, pause music or answer calls.
But both the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 3 have dynamic spatial audio and adaptive EQ. The former is essentially virtual surround sound, while the latter adjusts the sound to your ears.
AirPods Pro 2 vs. AirPods 3: Battery life
Battery life is similar for both models, although there are some slight differences. Both earbuds should provide up to 6 hours of listening time, according to Apple's claims. But you'll get 5.5 hours of battery life when using spatial audio and head tracking on the AirPods Pro 2, while the AirPods 3 offer slightly shorter 5-hour battery life with that surround sound feature enabled. Apple also claims the AirPods Pro 2 provides 4.5 hours of talk time, while the AirPods 3 offer up to 4 hours.
The case for both earbuds should provide up to 30 hours of listening time, says Apple. But when it comes to talk time, you can expect to get 24 hours from the AirPods Pro 2's case and 20 hours from the AirPods 3's case. Five minutes in each case is expected to replenish around one hour of listening time or roughly 1 hour of talk time.
AirPods Pro 2 vs. AirPods 3: How to choose
The $249 AirPods Pro 2 are for those who want active noise cancellation, better audio and a more customizable fit. You'll also get some other perks, like the ability to track them down more easily should they get lost, thanks to the U1 chip. The $169 AirPods 3 are a more suitable choice if you don't care about noise cancellation and are shopping on a tighter budget. At the same time, the AirPods 3 still have more to offer than the $129 AirPods, which lack features like water resistance and adaptive EQ.
David Carnoy/CNET
The new AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are powered by Apple's new H2 chip, which delivers more processing power while being more energy efficient, according to Apple. The new chip, combined with new low-distortion drivers, allows for improved sound that offers better clarity and depth. The noise canceling is also improved -- Apple says the new AirPods have "double" the noise canceling of the original AirPods Pro. Additionally, the new AirPods add an extra hour of battery life, up from five to six hours with noise canceling on. Plus, a speaker in the case that emits a sound that helps locate your buds via Find My should they decide to hide from you.
Note that while Apple has discontinued the original AirPods Pro, they'll remain on saleat discounted pricesuntil supplies are exhausted. However, most people should get this newer model if they can afford it. The AirPods Pro 2 continue to see small discounts, dipping to as low as $223 during Amazon' Early Access Prime event in October.
Water-resistant:Yes(IPX4 rating -- splash-proof).
Read our Apple AirPods Pro 2 review.
$200 at Amazon $249 at Crutchfield $249 at Apple
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Take one look at the new design of thethird-gen AirPods($179), and the first thing you'll probably think is: "Those look like theAirPods Prowithout ear tips." You wouldn't be wrong. While they're more fraternal than identical twins, the AirPods 3 are shaped like the AirPods Pro, with the same shorter stems and same pinch controls as those of the Pro. Aside from the design change, which should fit most ears better than the AirPods 2nd Generation (though not very small ears), the biggest change is to the sound quality: It's much improved. Also, battery life is better, and the AirPods 3 are officially water-resistant.
Read our Apple AirPods 3 review.
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FAQs
Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. AirPods 3: The Biggest Differences? ›
You should get the AirPods 3 if…
And while the AirPods Pro 2 sound a bit louder and fuller, the AirPods 3 are surprisingly comparable in sound quality given their much lower price.
You should get the AirPods 3 if…
And while the AirPods Pro 2 sound a bit louder and fuller, the AirPods 3 are surprisingly comparable in sound quality given their much lower price.
AirPods 3 gives you up to 6 hours of audio playback from a single charge, while the AirPods Pro battery life gives 4.5 hours of audio playback, that's two hours more battery life and half an hour more talking time. The battery in the AirPods 3 charging case has also been improved compared to the AirPods Pro.
Is there a big difference between 2nd and 3rd generation AirPods? ›Relatively speaking, the AirPods (3rd generation) makes treble notes sound about twice as loud as they do through the second-gen AirPods. Meanwhile, the AirPods (2nd gen) boosts upper-bass notes (100Hz) to make them sound almost two times louder than the third-gen AirPods.
Are AirPods Pro worth it over AirPods 3? ›You should only buy the AirPods Pro if you specifically prefer the fit and improved sound that in-ear silicone tips can provide, or need Active Noise Cancellation. It is also worth buying AirPods Pro if you could make good use of Apple's Conversation Boost accessibility feature.
Are the Airpod Pro 3 noise Cancelling? ›AirPods Pro and AirPods Max Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode. AirPods Pro and AirPods Max have three noise-control modes: Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, and Off. You can switch between them, depending on how much of your surroundings you want to hear.
Are AirPods 3 worth it? ›Reviews of the AirPods 3 have been largely positive, with users praising the improved fit that cuts down on outside noise and helps the AirPods to better stay in the ears. Weight distribution is better in the ear because of the updated angle, and many people have found them to be much more comfortable.
Is it worth upgrading from AirPods 2 to 3? ›The verdict
Unquestionably, the AirPods 3 have more innovative technology like the spatial audio feature and adaptive equalizer to create a more immersive experience, with better isolation from the air or wind, better battery life, wireless charging, and new skin and force sensors for extra comfort.
Your AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd generation), AirPods (3rd generation), MagSafe Charging Case for AirPods (3rd generation), Lightning Charging Case for AirPods (3rd generation), and MagSafe Charging Case for AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are water and sweat resistant, but they are not waterproof or sweatproof.
Are Apple Airpod pros worth it? ›They have quite good noise cancellation, the battery lasts a lot longer, and sound quality has improved in general. Many of iOS's best AirPods features work only with AirPods Pro. Spatial Audio in Apple Music works on all headphones, but enabling it in video requires AirPods Pro or AirPods Max.
Are AirPods Pro or 3rd gen more comfortable? ›
The Pro have a much more neutral sound profile and a great ANC feature. They come with differently-sized ear tips and are much more comfortable and stable once you find a good fit. They also have less latency with iOS and Android devices.
Why are Airpod pros more expensive than 3rd gen? ›The AirPods Pro adds noise cancelation, a transparency mode, and a more customizable fit to the AirPods line. However, the price tag is a bit higher, and it does sacrifice a bit of battery life.
Which is the No 1 AirPods? ›Best Overall: Apple AirPods Pro
Expert Comment: The Apple Airpods Pro provides the best results in premium earphones prepared to use in the Apple ecosystem. It provides excellent noise cancellation from the external environment.
As you wear your AirPods, dirt and ear wax can build up in the speaker mesh and obstruct the audio signal coming out from the drivers. As a result, the sound you hear will be quieter as the dirt and earwax buildup block some of the audio signals.
Why are AirPods 3 not noise cancelling? ›Make sure that you have the latest software on your connected iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac. Put both AirPods Pro in your ears and check that Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is turned on. Clean the mesh located on the top of your AirPods Pro.
Do AirPods 3 have wireless charging? ›Charge the AirPods or AirPods Pro case
Wireless charging case: For AirPods (2nd generation) or AirPods (3rd generation) with a wireless charging case, or AirPods Pro (all generations), place the case with the status light facing up on the center of a MagSafe wireless charger or a Qi-certified charger.
The most-entry level AirPods have the same thin-stemmed design as the original ones from 2016. They're cheaper than the rest because they lack the noise-cancellation and transparency models, as well as support for spatial audio.
How many years do AirPods 3 last? ›How Long Do AirPods Last: Their Average Lifespan. AirPods typically last about 2-3 years before most users feel the need to replace them. This short lifespan is because of their lithium-ion batteries. AirPods have proven tough in several durability tests and have shown that they can withstand pressure.
What is special about AirPods 3? ›Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking places sounds all around you to create a three-dimensional listening experience for music, TV shows, movies, and more — immersing you in sounds from every direction so it feels like you're in your very own concert hall or theater.
Why are AirPods 3 not loud? ›Change the volume of sound effects using iPhone or iPad
Wear your AirPods, and make sure they're connected to your device. On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Accessibility > AirPods. Select your AirPods, then adjust Tone Volume.
What are the advantages of AirPods 3 over 2? ›
The third-generation AirPods add a raft of meaningful features and improvements over its predecessor, including improved design and sound quality, spatial audio, Adaptive EQ, sweat and water resistance, and MagSafe charging.
Can AirPods Pro survive the washing machine? ›Can your Airpods survive the washing machine? You'd be amazed to know that these little bundles of electronics are tougher than they look. In fact, Airpods can survive up to 60 minutes in the washing machine, according to Tech Geek Base. But they recommend you dry them out for at least 12 hours afterward.
What happens if I drop my AirPod Gen 3 in water? ›Only the AirPods Pro is IPX4 water-resistant – but only to a certain degree. This means if you accidentally dropped your AirPods in water or they became super sweaty from working out, you should dry them immediately.
Are AirPods good for running? ›When it comes to wireless headphones for running, the AirPods Pro is a solid choice. Overall, they stay in the ears even while running and have plenty of wireless options that make using them easy while on the go. Their charge time should get you through your daily run and then some.
What are the cons of Airpod pros? ›| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelation: ANC is improved and still lets you easily block out the world around you | No USB-C: The charging case still features a Lightning port |
Personalized listening
And Adaptive EQ accounts for the fit of AirPods Pro, so you hear every frequency just as it was intended. To play sound that better suits your unique ear shape, Personalized Spatial Audio works with the TrueDepth camera on your iPhone to create a custom profile based on your head's geometry.
The AirPods Pro feature an isolating design with soft silicone tips that physically seal the ear canal, unlike the second- and third-generation AirPods, which have hard plastic ear tips that rest just outside of it.
Are Gen 3 AirPods worth it? ›Reviews of the AirPods 3 have been largely positive, with users praising the improved fit that cuts down on outside noise and helps the AirPods to better stay in the ears. Weight distribution is better in the ear because of the updated angle, and many people have found them to be much more comfortable.
Why are AirPods Gen 3 so cheap? ›The most-entry level AirPods have the same thin-stemmed design as the original ones from 2016. They're cheaper than the rest because they lack the noise-cancellation and transparency models, as well as support for spatial audio.
Do Gen 3 AirPods have better audio quality than pros? ›Aside from the design change, which should fit most ears better than the AirPods 2nd Generation (though not very small ears), the biggest change is to the sound quality: It's much improved. Also, battery life is better, and the AirPods 3 are officially water-resistant.
Is AirPod 3 waterproof? ›
Your AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd generation), AirPods (3rd generation), MagSafe Charging Case for AirPods (3rd generation), Lightning Charging Case for AirPods (3rd generation), and MagSafe Charging Case for AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are water and sweat resistant, but they are not waterproof or sweatproof.