Apple’s AirPods have revolutionized the way we listen to music, take calls, and experience audio on-the-go. With the release of the third generation of AirPods, many are wondering whether it’s worth upgrading from the previous models or opting for the more premium Pro version. In this article, we’ll delve into the features, design, sound quality, and pricing of both the AirPods Gen 3 and Pro to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Fit
When it comes to design, both the AirPods Gen 3 and Pro have undergone significant changes compared to their predecessors. The AirPods Gen 3 have a more ergonomic design, with a contoured shape that fits snugly in your ear. This new design provides a more comfortable fit, reducing the likelihood of the earbuds falling out during exercise or daily activities. The stem of the AirPods Gen 3 is also slightly shorter than the previous models, making them less noticeable when wearing them.
On the other hand, the AirPods Pro have a more substantial design change, with three different sizes of ear tips to ensure a comfortable and secure fit for various ear shapes. The Pro model also features an innovative active noise cancellation system, which uses microphones to detect and cancel out background noise. This functionality requires a tighter seal in the ear, hence the need for customizable ear tips.
Water Resistance
Both the AirPods Gen 3 and Pro have IPX4 ratings, which means they can withstand sweat and water splashes. However, the AirPods Pro take it a step further with an additional layer of protection, making them more suitable for intense workouts or exposure to heavy rain.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is where both the AirPods Gen 3 and Pro truly shine. The Gen 3 model features an improved driver that provides a more detailed and immersive audio experience. The sound signature is balanced, with clear highs, smooth mids, and deep bass. The audio quality is excellent for casual listening, and the Gen 3 can even hold its own against more expensive wireless earbuds.
The AirPods Pro, on the other hand, take sound quality to the next level with their active noise cancellation feature. This technology allows for a more immersive listening experience, blocking out background noise and ambient sounds. The Pro model also features an adaptive EQ that adjusts the frequency response in real-time, ensuring that the audio sounds optimal for your ears and the environment you’re in.
Active Noise Cancellation
The AirPods Pro’s active noise cancellation is a game-changer for those who want to fully immerse themselves in their music or podcasts. The system uses two microphones to detect ambient noise, and then produces an “anti-noise” signal to cancel it out. This results in a quieter listening experience, with less external distraction.
Features and Functionality
Both the AirPods Gen 3 and Pro have a range of features that make them incredibly convenient to use.
Wireless Charging
Both models support wireless charging, making it easy to top up your earbuds without the hassle of cables.
Long Battery Life
The AirPods Gen 3 offer up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, while the AirPods Pro provide up to 5 hours of listening time with active noise cancellation enabled. Both models have a total of 24 hours of battery life with the charging case.
Siri Integration
Both models have seamless Siri integration, allowing you to control your music, answer calls, and access information with just your voice.
AirPods Pro Exclusive Features
The AirPods Pro have a few exclusive features that set them apart from the Gen 3 model. These include:
- Active Noise Cancellation: As mentioned earlier, this feature provides an unparalleled listening experience by blocking out background noise.
- Audio Sharing: The AirPods Pro allow you to share audio with a friend who also has AirPods, making it easy to watch videos or listen to music together.
- Ear Tip Fit Test: The Pro model has a built-in ear tip fit test that helps you determine the best fit for your ears, ensuring optimal sound quality and comfort.
Pricing
The AirPods Gen 3 are priced at $179, making them an attractive option for those on a budget. The AirPods Pro, on the other hand, come with a higher price tag of $249.
Is the Pro Model Worth the Extra Cost?
While the AirPods Pro offer some exclusive features, the question remains whether they’re worth the extra $70. If you value the convenience of active noise cancellation, customizable ear tips, and advanced features like audio sharing, then the Pro model might be the better choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and still want a great listening experience, the AirPods Gen 3 are an excellent option.
Conclusion
The AirPods Gen 3 and Pro are both exceptional wireless earbuds that cater to different needs and preferences. The Gen 3 model offers a more affordable entry point into the world of AirPods, with a comfortable design, great sound quality, and seamless integration with Apple devices. The AirPods Pro, on the other hand, provide a more premium experience with advanced features like active noise cancellation and customizable ear tips.
Ultimately, the decision between the AirPods Gen 3 and Pro comes down to your budget and what you value most in a pair of wireless earbuds. If you want the best possible sound quality and don’t mind paying a premium, the AirPods Pro are the way to go. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and still want a great listening experience, the AirPods Gen 3 are an excellent choice.
| Feature | AirPods Gen 3 | AirPods Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Contoured shape for a snug fit | Three sizes of ear tips for a customizable fit |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 rating | IPX4 rating with additional protection |
| Sound Quality | Balanced sound signature with clear highs and deep bass | Active noise cancellation and adaptive EQ |
| Features | Wireless charging, long battery life, Siri integration | Wireless charging, long battery life, Siri integration, active noise cancellation, audio sharing, ear tip fit test |
| Pricing | $179 | $249 |
By comparing the features and functionality of both models, you can make an informed decision about which AirPods are right for you.
What are the main differences between AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro?
The main differences between AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro lie in their design, features, and price. AirPods Gen 3 is an upgraded version of the regular AirPods, with a similar design and features like spatial audio and water resistance. On the other hand, AirPods Pro has a more ergonomic design with ear tips, active noise cancellation, and additional features like transparency mode.
While AirPods Gen 3 is a more affordable option, AirPods Pro offers more advanced features that justify its higher price. However, both earbuds offer seamless integration with Apple devices and high-quality sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your specific needs and budget.
Do AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro have the same sound quality?
Both AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro are known for their high-quality sound, with clear and balanced audio. However, AirPods Pro has a slight edge in terms of sound quality due to its more advanced drivers and active noise cancellation.
That being said, AirPods Gen 3 is no slouch when it comes to sound quality, and most users will be happy with its performance. If you’re looking for the absolute best sound quality, AirPods Pro might be the better choice. But if you’re on a budget and want a more affordable option with great sound, AirPods Gen 3 is a great option.
Do AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro have the same battery life?
AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro have similar battery life, with up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge. However, AirPods Pro has a slight edge in terms of total battery life, with up to 30 hours of listening time with the charging case, compared to 24 hours for AirPods Gen 3.
That being said, both earbuds support wireless charging and have fast charging capabilities, which means you can get up to 1 hour of listening time with just 5 minutes of charging. If battery life is a top priority, AirPods Pro might be the better choice, but AirPods Gen 3 is still a great option for most users.
Are AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro sweat- and water-resistant?
Yes, both AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro are sweat- and water-resistant, with an IPX4 rating. This means they can withstand sweat and water exposure, but they’re not designed for swimming or submersion in water.
If you plan to use your earbuds during intense workouts or in wet conditions, both AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro are great options. However, if you’re looking for earbuds that can withstand more extreme conditions, you might want to consider other options.
Can I use AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro with non-Apple devices?
While AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro are designed to work seamlessly with Apple devices, they can also be paired with non-Apple devices like Android smartphones and tablets. However, some features like spatial audio and automatic switching between devices might not work as smoothly on non-Apple devices.
If you’re an Android user, you can still use AirPods Gen 3 or AirPods Pro, but you might not get the full range of features and functionality. If you’re deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem, either earbud is a great choice, but if you’re an Android user, you might want to consider other options.
Can I customize the fit of AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro?
AirPods Gen 3 has a standard earbud design that fits snugly in the ear, while AirPods Pro has ear tips that can be customized to fit your ear shape. AirPods Pro comes with three sizes of ear tips, and you can use the ear tip fit test in the iOS settings to find the best fit.
If you have trouble getting a good fit with AirPods Gen 3, you might want to consider AirPods Pro, which offers more customization options. However, AirPods Gen 3 is still a great option for most users, and its ergonomic design provides a comfortable and secure fit.
Which is the better value, AirPods Gen 3 or AirPods Pro?
The better value between AirPods Gen 3 and AirPods Pro depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with great sound quality and reliable performance, AirPods Gen 3 is the better value.
However, if you’re willing to spend more for advanced features like active noise cancellation and customizable ear tips, AirPods Pro might be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your priorities and budget. If you want the absolute best features and don’t mind paying a premium, AirPods Pro is the way to go.