The Ultimate Showdown: AirPods Pro vs AirPods 3 – Which One Should You Choose?

Apple’s AirPods have revolutionized the way we listen to music, take hands-free calls, and experience audio on-the-go. With the introduction of AirPods Pro and AirPods 3, Apple has taken wireless earbuds to the next level. But, what’s the difference between these two popular models? In this article, we’ll delve into the details, comparing and contrasting the AirPods Pro and AirPods 3, to help you make an informed decision on which one is right for you.

Design and Fit

When it comes to design, both AirPods Pro and AirPods 3 share a similar aesthetic, with a sleek, compact, and lightweight build. However, there are some key differences in their design and fit.

AirPods Pro: The AirPods Pro features an upgraded design with three different ear tip sizes (small, medium, and large) to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. This new design also introduces a more ergonomic shape, allowing for better noise isolation and a secure fit during exercise or other activities.

AirPods 3: The AirPods 3, on the other hand, retain a similar design to the original AirPods, with a one-size-fits-all approach. While they still provide a comfortable fit, they may not be as secure as the AirPods Pro for those with smaller or larger ear canals.

In terms of weight, the AirPods Pro (5.4 grams per earbud) are slightly heavier than the AirPods 3 (4 grams per earbud). However, this slight difference is unlikely to cause any discomfort or fatigue.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is a crucial aspect of any wireless earbuds, and both AirPods Pro and AirPods 3 deliver impressive audio experiences. However, there are some differences in their sound profiles.

AirPods Pro: The AirPods Pro boast a more immersive sound experience, thanks to their adaptive EQ, which adjusts the frequency response in real-time based on the shape of your ear. This results in a more detailed and balanced sound, with deeper bass and clearer highs. Additionally, the AirPods Pro support spatial audio, which simulates a 3D audio experience, making you feel like you’re surrounded by sound.

AirPods 3: The AirPods 3, while still delivering a great sound experience, lack the adaptive EQ and spatial audio capabilities of the AirPods Pro. Their sound profile is more focused on clarity and crispness, with a slightly more pronounced high-end response.

Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Modes

Active noise cancellation and transparency modes are features that set the AirPods Pro apart from the AirPods 3.

AirPods Pro: The AirPods Pro feature active noise cancellation, which uses advanced algorithms and microphones to detect and cancel out ambient noise. This results in a more immersive listening experience, especially in noisy environments. Additionally, the AirPods Pro have a transparency mode, which allows you to hear your surroundings while still listening to music or taking calls.

AirPods 3: The AirPods 3 do not have active noise cancellation or transparency modes. Instead, they rely on the natural fit of the earbuds to block out some ambient noise.

Water and Sweat Resistance

If you plan to use your AirPods during exercise or in humid environments, water and sweat resistance are essential considerations.

AirPods Pro: The AirPods Pro have a rating of IPX4, which means they can withstand sweat and water splashes. This makes them suitable for most exercise routines, including running, hiking, or yoga.

AirPods 3: The AirPods 3 do not have an official IP rating, but Apple claims they are designed to be sweat- and water-resistant. While they may be able to withstand some moisture, they are not as robust as the AirPods Pro in this regard.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life and charging options are crucial for wireless earbuds.

AirPods Pro: The AirPods Pro offer up to 4.5 hours of listening time on a single charge, with an additional 24 hours of battery life from the wireless charging case. The case itself supports wireless charging, making it easy to top up your AirPods on the go.

AirPods 3: The AirPods 3 provide up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, with an additional 24 hours of battery life from the standard charging case. While the case does not support wireless charging, it does feature a Lightning connector for easy charging.

Multifunctional Touch Controls

Both AirPods Pro and AirPods 3 feature intuitive touch controls, allowing you to play, pause, skip tracks, and more with ease.

AirPods Pro: The AirPods Pro introduce a new “_force sensor” that allows for more precise control over your music and calls. You can press and hold the stem to switch between noise cancellation and transparency modes, or press the stem twice to skip tracks.

AirPods 3: The AirPods 3 retain the same touch controls as the original AirPods, with a double tap to play/pause, a triple tap to skip tracks, and a long press to activate Siri.

Additional Features

Both AirPods Pro and AirPods 3 have some unique features that set them apart from other wireless earbuds.

AirPods Pro: The AirPods Pro support Apple’s Ear Tip Fit Test, which helps you determine the best ear tip size for your ear. They also feature a “Conversation Boost” mode, which amplifies voices and reduces ambient noise, making it easier to follow conversations in noisy environments.

AirPods 3: The AirPods 3 support Apple’s “Audio Sharing” feature, which allows you to share audio with a friend or family member, using two pairs of AirPods connected to a single device.

Price and Availability

Finally, let’s talk about pricing and availability.

AirPods Pro: The AirPods Pro are priced at $249, making them a premium offering in the wireless earbuds market.

AirPods 3: The AirPods 3 are priced at $179, making them a more affordable option for those looking for a high-quality wireless earbud experience.

Both AirPods Pro and AirPods 3 are available on Apple’s website, as well as in Apple Stores and authorized retailers.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between the AirPods Pro and AirPods 3, it ultimately boils down to your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more immersive sound experience, advanced noise cancellation, and a more secure fit, the AirPods Pro are the clear winner. However, if you’re on a budget and still want a great sound experience with intuitive controls, the AirPods 3 are an excellent choice.

Whichever option you choose, you can’t go wrong with Apple’s renowned quality and ecosystem integration. So, what are you waiting for? Upgrade your wireless earbud game with the AirPods Pro or AirPods 3 today!

What are the main differences between AirPods Pro and AirPods 3?

The main differences between AirPods Pro and AirPods 3 lie in their design, features, and functionality. AirPods Pro have a more premium design with ear tips that provide a snug fit and better noise isolation. They also come with active noise cancellation, water resistance, and wireless charging. On the other hand, AirPods 3 have a more affordable price tag and a similar design to the original AirPods, but with some improvements such as longer battery life and wireless charging.

In terms of sound quality, both models offer high-fidelity audio, but AirPods Pro have a more immersive listening experience thanks to their noise-cancellation feature. Additionally, AirPods Pro have a feature called “Transparency mode” that allows you to hear your surroundings while still listening to music or podcasts. AirPods 3, on the other hand, have a more open soundstage, but they don’t offer noise cancellation or transparency mode.

Which one is better for noise cancellation?

AirPods Pro are the clear winner when it comes to noise cancellation. They have active noise cancellation, which uses advanced algorithms and microphones to detect and eliminate background noise. This feature is especially useful for commuters, travelers, or anyone who wants to focus on their music or podcasts without distractions. AirPods Pro also have a feature called “Noise Cancellation Mode” that allows you to customize the level of noise cancellation to your liking.

AirPods 3, on the other hand, don’t have active noise cancellation. They do, however, have a design that fits snugly in your ear, which can help to block out some background noise. But if you’re looking for a more advanced noise-cancellation feature, AirPods Pro are the better choice.

Are AirPods Pro worth the extra cost?

Whether or not AirPods Pro are worth the extra cost depends on your priorities and budget. If you’re looking for a premium listening experience with advanced features like noise cancellation and water resistance, then AirPods Pro might be worth the investment. Additionally, if you plan to use your earbuds frequently, especially in noisy environments, the extra cost might be justified.

On the other hand, if you’re on a budget and just want a good pair of earbuds for casual listening, AirPods 3 might be a more affordable option. You’ll still get a great listening experience, but without the advanced features of AirPods Pro.

Which one has better battery life?

AirPods 3 have slightly longer battery life than AirPods Pro. AirPods 3 offer up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, while AirPods Pro offer up to 5 hours of listening time with noise cancellation turned on. However, both models come with a wireless charging case that provides additional battery life.

It’s worth noting that AirPods Pro have a feature called “Audio Sharing” that allows you to share audio with a friend, but this feature can reduce battery life. AirPods 3 also have a feature called “Low Power Mode” that helps extend battery life, but this feature reduces some of the earbuds’ functionality.

Are AirPods Pro more comfortable to wear?

AirPods Pro are designed to be more comfortable to wear, especially for users with smaller ears. They come with three different sizes of ear tips, which provide a snug and secure fit. Additionally, AirPods Pro have a vent system that helps to equalize air pressure, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods.

AirPods 3, on the other hand, have a similar design to the original AirPods, which some users found to be uncomfortable or prone to falling out. However, AirPods 3 have some design improvements that make them more comfortable to wear, such as a more ergonomic shape and a slightly smaller size.

Can I use AirPods Pro with non-Apple devices?

Yes, you can use AirPods Pro with non-Apple devices, such as Android phones or tablets. However, some features like Siri integration, seamless pairing, and automatic ear detection might not work as smoothly as they do with Apple devices. You’ll still be able to listen to music, take calls, and adjust volume, but you might not get the full AirPods Pro experience.

Additionally, some features like active noise cancellation and transparency mode might not work on non-Apple devices, so you might need to use the AirPods Pro app to customize your listening experience.

Should I upgrade from AirPods 2 to AirPods 3 or AirPods Pro?

If you’re currently using AirPods 2, it’s worth considering upgrading to AirPods 3 or AirPods Pro. AirPods 3 offer some significant improvements over AirPods 2, such as longer battery life, wireless charging, and a more comfortable design. AirPods Pro, on the other hand, offer more advanced features like noise cancellation, water resistance, and a more premium design.

If you’re looking for a more affordable upgrade, AirPods 3 might be the better choice. But if you’re willing to invest in a more premium listening experience, AirPods Pro might be worth the upgrade. Ultimately, it depends on your budget and priorities.

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