When it comes to wireless earbuds, Apple’s AirPods have been the go-to choice for many music lovers and tech enthusiasts. With the release of the AirPods 3 and the AirPods Pro, Apple has given consumers more options to choose from, each with its unique features and benefits. But the question remains, which one is better? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the differences between the AirPods 3 and the AirPods Pro to help you make an informed decision.
The Design and Fit
The design and fit of the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro are two of the most noticeable differences between the two models. The AirPods 3 retains the same iconic design as the previous AirPods, with a sleek and compact body that fits snugly in the ear. However, Apple has made some subtle changes to improve the fit and comfort of the AirPods 3. The earbuds now have a slightly longer stem and a more contoured design, which helps them sit more securely in the ear.
On the other hand, the AirPods Pro have a more dramatic design overhaul. The earbuds now have a more ergonomic design, with three different sizes of ear tips to ensure a comfortable and secure fit for a wide range of ear shapes and sizes. The ear tips are made of soft, flexible silicone that conforms to the shape of the ear, providing a snug and comfortable fit.
The AirPods Pro’s design is more ergonomic and provides a better fit, especially for those with smaller ears.
Water and Sweat Resistance
Both the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro have IPX4 ratings, which means they can withstand sweat and water splashes. However, the AirPods Pro takes it a step further with its water-resistant design. The earbuds have a special coating that repels water and sweat, making them more durable and resistant to moisture.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, both the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro deliver exceptional audio performance. However, there are some key differences between the two models.
The AirPods 3 have a more neutral sound signature, with clear and balanced audio that reproduces music with accuracy. The earbuds have a slightly more emphasized bass response, which adds depth and warmth to the music.
The AirPods Pro, on the other hand, have a more detailed and nuanced sound signature. The earbuds use Apple’s proprietary high-fidelity audio codec, which provides a more accurate and detailed representation of the music. The AirPods Pro also have a more pronounced bass response, which adds more depth and energy to the music.
The AirPods Pro have a more detailed and nuanced sound signature, making them ideal for audiophiles.
Active Noise Cancellation
One of the key features that set the AirPods Pro apart from the AirPods 3 is active noise cancellation. The AirPods Pro have two microphones, one facing outward and one facing inward, which work together to detect and cancel out background noise. This feature is especially useful in noisy environments, such as public transportation or busy offices.
The AirPods 3, on the other hand, do not have active noise cancellation. However, they do have a feature called “audio sharing,” which allows two pairs of AirPods to be connected to the same device, making it easy to share music or podcasts with a friend.
Battery Life and Charging
When it comes to battery life, both the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro have similar performance. The AirPods 3 have a battery life of up to 6 hours on a single charge, while the AirPods Pro have a battery life of up to 5.5 hours on a single charge. However, the AirPods Pro have a feature called “conversation boost,” which can reduce the battery life to around 4.5 hours.
Both models have a charging case that provides additional battery life. The AirPods 3 charging case provides up to 30 hours of additional battery life, while the AirPods Pro charging case provides up to 24 hours of additional battery life.
The AirPods 3 have a slightly longer battery life, but the AirPods Pro have a more convenient charging case.
Wireless Charging
Both the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro support wireless charging, making it easy to top up the battery without having to deal with cords. The AirPods Pro charging case also has a feature called “quick charging,” which can provide up to 1 hour of battery life with just 5 minutes of charging.
Additional Features
Both the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro have a range of additional features that make them more convenient and easy to use.
The AirPods 3 have a feature called “audio sharing,” which allows two pairs of AirPods to be connected to the same device, making it easy to share music or podcasts with a friend. The AirPods 3 also have a feature called “Announce Messages with Siri,” which allows Siri to read out messages and notifications.
The AirPods Pro, on the other hand, have a feature called “Ear Tip Fit Test,” which helps users find the right size of ear tips for a comfortable and secure fit. The AirPods Pro also have a feature called “Live Listen,” which allows users to amplify sounds around them, making it easier to hear in noisy environments.
Spatial Audio
The AirPods Pro also have a feature called “spatial audio,” which provides a more immersive and engaging audio experience. This feature uses the earbuds’ accelerometers and gyroscopes to track the user’s head movements, allowing the audio to adapt to the user’s position.
Price and Value
When it comes to price, the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro have different price points. The AirPods 3 are priced at around $179, while the AirPods Pro are priced at around $249.
The AirPods 3 offer great value for the price, but the AirPods Pro are worth the extra cost for their advanced features and superior sound quality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro are exceptional wireless earbuds that offer great sound quality, convenience, and ease of use. However, the AirPods Pro offer more advanced features, such as active noise cancellation, spatial audio, and a more ergonomic design.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option with great sound quality, the AirPods 3 are a great choice. However, if you’re willing to pay a premium for advanced features and superior sound quality, the AirPods Pro are the better option.
| Feature | AirPods 3 | AirPods Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Fit | Compact design, improved fit | Ergonomic design, three sizes of ear tips |
| Sound Quality | Neutral sound signature, clear and balanced audio | More detailed and nuanced sound signature, high-fidelity audio codec |
| Active Noise Cancellation | No | Yes, with two microphones |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours on a single charge | Up to 5.5 hours on a single charge |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes, with quick charging |
| Price | $179 | $249 |
In the end, the choice between the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro depends on your budget, preferences, and needs. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with great sound quality, the AirPods 3 are a great choice. However, if you’re willing to pay a premium for advanced features and superior sound quality, the AirPods Pro are the better option.
What are the main differences between AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro?
The main differences between AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro lie in their design, features, and price. AirPods 3 have a more compact design and are lighter in weight, making them more comfortable to wear. They also come with a standard charging case and offer up to 30 hours of battery life. On the other hand, AirPods Pro have a more premium design with ear tips that fit snugly in your ear, providing better sound quality and noise cancellation. They also come with a wireless charging case and offer up to 24 hours of battery life.
Additionally, AirPods Pro feature active noise cancellation, which is not available on AirPods 3. They also have a unique feature called “Transparency mode” that allows you to hear your surroundings while still listening to music. AirPods Pro also have IPX4 water and sweat resistance, making them more durable than AirPods 3. Overall, the choice between AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro depends on your budget and personal preferences.
Are AirPods 3 worth buying over AirPods Pro?
AirPods 3 are worth buying over AirPods Pro if you’re on a budget and don’t need the advanced features offered by the Pro model. AirPods 3 are significantly cheaper than AirPods Pro, making them a more affordable option for those who just want a good pair of wireless earbuds. They still offer great sound quality, a comfortable fit, and long battery life, making them a great value for the price.
If you’re looking for a more premium experience with advanced features like noise cancellation and water resistance, then AirPods Pro might be a better option for you. However, if you’re just looking for a reliable pair of earbuds for casual listening, then AirPods 3 are definitely worth considering.
Do AirPods 3 have noise cancellation?
No, AirPods 3 do not have active noise cancellation like AirPods Pro. They do have some passive noise isolation due to their design, but they don’t have the advanced noise cancellation technology found in AirPods Pro. If noise cancellation is a top priority for you, then AirPods Pro might be a better option.
However, it’s worth noting that AirPods 3 still offer good sound quality and can block out some background noise due to their snug fit. They’re not ideal for noisy environments, but they’re still a great option for casual listening in quieter settings.
Can I use AirPods 3 with Android devices?
Yes, AirPods 3 can be used with Android devices, but they won’t offer the same seamless integration as they do with Apple devices. You can pair them with your Android device via Bluetooth, but you won’t have access to features like automatic pairing, seamless switching between devices, and Find My AirPods.
Additionally, some features like audio sharing and announcements might not work as well on Android devices as they do on Apple devices. If you’re an Android user, you might want to consider other wireless earbuds that offer better compatibility with your device.
How long does it take to charge AirPods 3?
AirPods 3 can be charged quickly and easily using a USB-C cable and a power adapter. According to Apple, it takes around 15 minutes to charge AirPods 3 for 1 hour of listening time. A full charge takes around 30 minutes, which provides up to 30 hours of battery life.
It’s also worth noting that AirPods 3 come with a standard charging case, which can be charged via USB-C or Qi-compatible wireless chargers. This makes it easy to top up your AirPods 3 on the go, especially if you have a wireless charging pad.
Do AirPods 3 have wireless charging?
No, AirPods 3 do not come with wireless charging out of the box. They come with a standard charging case that can be charged via USB-C. If you want wireless charging, you’ll need to purchase a separate wireless charging case, which adds to the overall cost.
On the other hand, AirPods Pro come with a wireless charging case standard, making it easy to charge them wirelessly. If wireless charging is a must-have feature for you, then AirPods Pro might be a better option.
Can I customize AirPods 3 with engravings or colors?
No, AirPods 3 cannot be customized with engravings or colors. They come in a standard white finish, and you can’t change the color or add any personalized engravings. If you want to customize your AirPods, you might want to consider third-party accessories or skins, but these are not officially supported by Apple.
On the other hand, AirPods Pro can be customized with engravings, but only through Apple’s website or retail stores. You can add your name, initials, or a message to your AirPods Pro, which makes them a more personalized option.