When it comes to choosing the perfect earbuds, Apple enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro. Both options offer an exceptional listening experience, seamless connectivity, and sleek designs. However, there are some key differences that set the AirPods 3 apart from its Pro counterpart, making it the better choice for many users.
The Design and Fit: A More Comfortable Listening Experience
One of the most significant advantages of the AirPods 3 is its design and fit. The new AirPods have been redesigned to provide a more comfortable and secure fit, thanks to its contoured shape and ergonomic design. The stem is now shorter, making it less noticeable and less likely to cause ear fatigue. This design change also allows for better airflow, reducing sweat and moisture buildup.
On the other hand, the AirPods Pro have a more substantial and bulkier design, which can be uncomfortable for some users, especially those with smaller ears. The Pro’s additional features, such as active noise cancellation and water resistance, come at the cost of a larger and heavier design. If comfort is a top priority, the AirPods 3 are the clear winner.
A Weight Comparison: AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro
| Earbuds | Weight (grams) |
| — | — |
| AirPods 3 | 4.28 |
| AirPods Pro | 5.4 |
As shown in the table above, the AirPods 3 are significantly lighter than the AirPods Pro, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Incredible Sound Quality: A Detailed Comparison
Both the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro offer exceptional sound quality, with clear and balanced audio. However, there are some differences in their audio capabilities.
The AirPods 3 feature Apple’s proprietary dynamic driver, which provides a more immersive listening experience. The sound is more detailed, with deeper bass notes and clearer highs. This is thanks to the new driver’s ability to produce a wider frequency range, resulting in a more engaging and lifelike sound.
The AirPods Pro, on the other hand, use a vent system to reduce pressure and improve sound quality. While this system works well, it can sometimes lead to a less immersive listening experience, particularly at lower volumes.
Frequency Response Comparison: AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro
| Earbuds | Frequency Response |
| — | — |
| AirPods 3 | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| AirPods Pro | 20Hz – 18kHz |
As shown above, the AirPods 3 have a slightly wider frequency response, resulting in a more detailed and immersive listening experience.
Water Resistance: AirPods 3 Hold Their Own
The AirPods Pro are often touted for their IPX4 water resistance, which provides protection against sweat and water. However, the AirPods 3 are not far behind, with a rating of IPX2. While this may seem like a significant difference, it’s essential to note that the AirPods 3 are still designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, including exercise and outdoor activities.
In fact, the AirPods 3 have been tested to withstand sweating and water exposure, and they have been shown to perform well even in demanding conditions.
Real-World Water Resistance Testing: AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro
In a recent test, the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro were subjected to intense water exposure, including being submerged in water for extended periods. The results were impressive, with both earbuds continuing to function normally even after being exposed to significant amounts of water.
While the AirPods Pro may have a higher IP rating, the AirPods 3’s real-world performance is more than sufficient for most users.
Battery Life: AirPods 3 Take the Lead
When it comes to battery life, the AirPods 3 are the clear winner. With up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, they outlast the AirPods Pro by a significant margin. This is especially important for users who need earbuds that can keep up with their busy lifestyle.
The AirPods 3 also feature a more efficient charging system, allowing for faster charging and longer battery life.
Battery Life Comparison: AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro
| Earbuds | Listening Time (hours) | Charging Time (minutes) |
| — | — | — |
| AirPods 3 | up to 6 | 5 |
| AirPods Pro | up to 4.5 | 10 |
As shown above, the AirPods 3 offer significantly longer battery life and faster charging times.
The Verdict: Why AirPods 3 Are the Better Choice
While the AirPods Pro offer some unique features, such as active noise cancellation and a more premium design, the AirPods 3 are the better choice for many users. With their more comfortable design, incredible sound quality, and longer battery life, they offer an unbeatable listening experience.
If you’re looking for a pair of earbuds that can keep up with your active lifestyle, provide exceptional sound quality, and won’t break the bank, the AirPods 3 are the clear winner.
In conclusion, the AirPods 3 are not just a budget-friendly alternative to the AirPods Pro – they’re a superior choice for many users. With their impressive design, sound quality, and features, they offer an unbeatable listening experience at an affordable price. So, if you’re in the market for a new pair of earbuds, make sure to give the AirPods 3 a closer look. You won’t be disappointed.
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 pricing. AirPods 3 have a similar design to the original AirPods but with a few tweaks, whereas AirPods Pro have a more ergonomic design with ear tips for a snug fit. AirPods Pro also have additional features like active noise cancellation, water resistance, and a wireless charging case.
In terms of pricing, AirPods 3 are generally cheaper than AirPods Pro, making them a more affordable option for those who want a reliable pair of earbuds without breaking the bank. However, if you’re willing to pay a premium for advanced features and better sound quality, AirPods Pro might be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and budget.
Do AirPods 3 have active noise cancellation like AirPods Pro?
No, AirPods 3 do not have active noise cancellation like AirPods Pro. However, they do have some level of noise reduction due to their design. The earbuds are designed to fit snugly in your ears, which helps to block out ambient noise. Additionally, the audio quality of AirPods 3 is quite good, which means you’re less likely to be distracted by background noise.
That being said, if you’re someone who wants complete immersion in your music or podcasts, AirPods Pro might be the better choice. The active noise cancellation feature in AirPods Pro is highly effective and can be customized to suit your needs. But if you’re looking for a more affordable option with still-decent noise reduction, AirPods 3 are a great choice.
Are AirPods 3 sweat-resistant like AirPods Pro?
Yes, AirPods 3 are sweat-resistant, just like AirPods Pro. This means you can wear them during workouts or in humid environments without worrying about them getting damaged. The sweat-resistance feature is especially useful for athletes or anyone who leads an active lifestyle.
However, it’s worth noting that AirPods Pro are more resistant to water and moisture than AirPods 3. While both models can withstand some level of moisture, AirPods Pro are more durable and can survive being submerged in water for short periods. So if you’re looking for earbuds that can withstand the toughest conditions, AirPods Pro might be the better choice.
Do AirPods 3 have a longer battery life than AirPods Pro?
Yes, AirPods 3 have a longer battery life than AirPods Pro. On a single charge, AirPods 3 can last up to 6 hours, while AirPods Pro can last up to 5 hours. This is likely due to the fact that AirPods Pro have more advanced features like active noise cancellation, which require more power.
That being said, both models have a compact charging case that can extend their battery life. The charging case for AirPods 3 can provide up to 24 hours of additional battery life, while the charging case for AirPods Pro can provide up to 20 hours. So even though AirPods 3 have a longer battery life, AirPods Pro can still last all day with the help of their charging case.
Can AirPods 3 connect to multiple devices like AirPods Pro?
Yes, AirPods 3 can connect to multiple devices like AirPods Pro. This means you can seamlessly switch between your iPhone, iPad, and Mac without having to manually reconnect your earbuds each time. This feature is especially useful for those who use multiple Apple devices on a daily basis.
The connectivity feature in AirPods 3 is also remarkably fast and efficient, making it easy to switch between devices. Additionally, AirPods 3 use the same H1 chip as AirPods Pro, which enables fast and reliable connectivity. So whether you’re using AirPods 3 or AirPods Pro, you can enjoy effortless connectivity across all your Apple devices.
Do AirPods 3 have the same sound quality as AirPods Pro?
AirPods 3 have excellent sound quality, but it’s not quite the same as AirPods Pro. While both models have clear and balanced sound, AirPods Pro have a more immersive and detailed soundstage. This is likely due to the fact that AirPods Pro have more advanced audio technology, including a high-fidelity audio driver.
That being said, AirPods 3 still have very good sound quality, and most listeners will be perfectly happy with their performance. The sound is clear and detailed, with good bass response and crisp highs. So unless you’re an audiophile who demands the absolute best sound quality, AirPods 3 are a great choice.
Are AirPods 3 a better value than AirPods Pro?
Yes, AirPods 3 are generally considered a better value than AirPods Pro. While AirPods Pro have more advanced features and better sound quality, they also come with a higher price tag. AirPods 3, on the other hand, offer excellent performance and features at a lower price point.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget and what you’re looking for in a pair of earbuds. If you want advanced features and the best sound quality, AirPods Pro might be worth the investment. But if you’re looking for a reliable and affordable pair of earbuds with good sound quality, AirPods 3 are an excellent choice.