With the release of the AirPods 3, Apple has given its fans another reason to rejoice. But, for those who already own or are considering buying the AirPods Pro, the question on everyone’s mind is: which one is better? The AirPods 3 or the AirPods Pro? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of both earbuds, comparing their design, features, sound quality, and more, to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Comfort
When it comes to design, both the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro have their unique advantages. The AirPods 3 have a similar design to the AirPods 2, with a more subtle stem and a smaller charging case. They weigh around 4 grams each, making them incredibly lightweight and comfortable to wear. The earbuds come in a single size, but they fit snugly in most ears.
On the other hand, the AirPods Pro have a more substantial stem, housing the additional features like active noise cancellation and water resistance. They weigh around 5.4 grams each, slightly heavier than the AirPods 3. The AirPods Pro come with three different ear tip sizes, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for all ear shapes and sizes.
In terms of comfort, both earbuds are designed to be worn for extended periods, but the AirPods Pro’s adjustable ear tips provide a more customized fit.
Sound Quality and Audio Features
The AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro both deliver high-quality audio, but with some notable differences. The AirPods 3 have a more balanced sound signature, with clear highs and decent bass response. They lack some of the deeper bass notes, but overall, they’re suitable for everyday listening.
The AirPods Pro, on the other hand, offer a more immersive audio experience with their active noise cancellation feature. This feature uses advanced algorithms and microphones to detect and eliminate background noise, resulting in a more focused and engaging sound. The AirPods Pro also have a more pronounced bass response, making them ideal for music lovers who crave a more dynamic sound.
In terms of sound quality, the AirPods Pro’s active noise cancellation and more detailed sound signature make them a better choice for those who value audio fidelity.
Additional Features
The AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro have some exciting features that set them apart from their competitors.
Water Resistance
The AirPods Pro boast IPX4 water resistance, which means they can withstand sweat, water, and other liquids. While they’re not designed for underwater use, they can handle accidental splashes or exposure to rain. The AirPods 3, unfortunately, lack any water resistance rating, making them more susceptible to damage from liquids.
Active Noise Cancellation
As mentioned earlier, the AirPods Pro feature active noise cancellation, which significantly improves the listening experience in noisy environments. The AirPods 3, however, do not have this feature, relying on passive noise isolation instead.
Wireless Charging
Both the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro support wireless charging, making it convenient to recharge your earbuds without the need for cables. However, the AirPods Pro’s charging case also supports fast wireless charging, which can give you up to 1 hour of listening time with just 5 minutes of charging.
Audio Sharing
The AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro both support audio sharing, allowing you to share audio with a friend or family member who also has AirPods. This feature is perfect for watching videos or listening to music together.
Battery Life and Charging
The AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro have similar battery life expectations, with up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge. The charging cases for both earbuds provide an additional 24 hours of battery life, making it easy to get through a full day without needing to recharge.
However, the AirPods Pro’s charging case takes around 1 hour to fully charge, while the AirPods 3’s charging case takes around 30 minutes.
In terms of battery life, both earbuds offer similar performance, but the AirPods Pro’s charging case takes longer to recharge.
Pricing and Value
The AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro have different pricing structures, which may influence your decision.
The AirPods 3 start at $179 for the standard version and $199 for the version with a wireless charging case.
The AirPods Pro, on the other hand, start at $249 for the standard version and $299 for the version with a wireless charging case and a Lightning to USB 3 camera adapter.
In terms of value, the AirPods 3 offer more affordable pricing, making them an attractive option for those on a budget. However, the AirPods Pro’s advanced features and improved sound quality may justify the additional cost for those who value premium audio and convenience.
Conclusion
So, which one is better: the AirPods 3 or the AirPods Pro? The answer ultimately depends on your priorities and needs.
If you value affordability, a smaller design, and a more balanced sound signature, the AirPods 3 might be the better choice.
However, if you’re willing to invest in premium audio, active noise cancellation, and additional features like water resistance and fast wireless charging, the AirPods Pro are definitely worth considering.
Ultimately, the decision between the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro comes down to your individual preferences and the importance you place on different features and benefits.
| Feature | AirPods 3 | AirPods Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Smaller stem, single size | Larger stem, three ear tip sizes |
| Sound Quality | Balanced sound signature, decent bass | More immersive sound, active noise cancellation, deeper bass |
| Water Resistance | No rating | IPX4 rating |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours, 24 hours with charging case | Up to 6 hours, 24 hours with charging case |
| Pricing | $179 (standard), $199 (wireless charging) | $249 (standard), $299 (wireless charging and camera adapter) |
We hope this comprehensive comparison has helped you make a more informed decision. Whether you choose the AirPods 3 or the AirPods Pro, you can’t go wrong with Apple’s renowned quality and innovation.
What are the key differences between AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro?
The key differences between AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro lie in their design, features, and price. AirPods 3 are the latest iteration of Apple’s standard AirPods, offering a more affordable option with a familiar design. AirPods Pro, on the other hand, are designed for those who want additional features like active noise cancellation, water resistance, and customizable ear tips.
AirPods Pro also have a more premium design with a wireless charging case, whereas AirPods 3 have a standard charging case. Additionally, AirPods Pro offer spatial audio and Dolby Atmos support, which are not available on AirPods 3. Overall, the choice between AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro depends on your budget and preferences for premium features.
Do AirPods 3 have active noise cancellation?
No, AirPods 3 do not have active noise cancellation. This feature is exclusive to AirPods Pro, which use advanced algorithms to detect and eliminate background noise. AirPods 3, on the other hand, rely on passive noise isolation, which can help block out some ambient sound but is not as effective as active noise cancellation.
If you want to enjoy immersive audio with minimal distractions, AirPods Pro are the better choice. However, if you don’t mind some ambient noise and prioritize affordability, AirPods 3 can still provide a great listening experience.
Are AirPods 3 water resistant?
AirPods 3 do not have any official IPX rating, which means they are not officially water-resistant. However, they are designed to withstand everyday wear and tear, including exposure to sweat and moderate humidity.
If you plan to use your AirPods during intense workouts or in wet conditions, AirPods Pro are a better option. They have an IPX4 rating, which means they can withstand splashes of water and sweat. However, it’s still important to clean and dry them properly to maintain their performance.
Do AirPods 3 support spatial audio?
No, AirPods 3 do not support spatial audio or Dolby Atmos. These features are exclusive to AirPods Pro, which use advanced audio processing to create a more immersive and three-dimensional soundstage.
If you want to experience audio with greater depth and nuance, AirPods Pro are the better choice. However, AirPods 3 still provide high-quality audio with clear and balanced sound.
How long do the batteries of AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro last?
The batteries of AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro have similar lifetimes. AirPods 3 offer up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, while AirPods Pro offer up to 5.5 hours. Both models also come with charging cases that provide additional battery life.
In terms of charging, AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro support wireless charging, and a quick 5-minute charge can provide up to an hour of listening time.
Can I use AirPods 3 with Android devices?
Yes, AirPods 3 can be used with Android devices, but their functionality is limited compared to when they’re used with Apple devices. You’ll be able to stream audio and use basic volume controls, but you won’t have access to advanced features like spatial audio or seamless pairing.
If you’re an Android user, you might want to consider alternative wireless earbuds that are specifically designed for Android devices. However, if you’re already invested in the Apple ecosystem or prefer the convenience of AirPods, AirPods 3 can still provide a great listening experience.
Which one should I buy: AirPods 3 or AirPods Pro?
The choice between AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro ultimately depends on your budget and preferences. If you want a more affordable option with a familiar design and great audio quality, AirPods 3 are the better choice.
If you’re willing to pay a premium for advanced features like active noise cancellation, spatial audio, and water resistance, AirPods Pro are the way to go. Consider your priorities and weigh the pros and cons of each model before making a decision.