Airpods Showdown: 3rd Gen Airpods vs Airpods Pro
Choosing the right earbuds can be a tough decision, especially when Apple offers such compelling options. Are you trying to decide between the 3rd gen AirPods and the AirPods Pro? This in-depth comparison will help you navigate the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each model.
Both the 3rd generation AirPods and the AirPods Pro offer a seamless listening experience within the Apple ecosystem, but they cater to different needs and preferences. From sound quality to design and extra features, these earbuds have a lot to offer. We’ll break down the key differences to help you make an informed choice.
Whether you prioritize affordability or premium features like noise cancellation, this guide has you covered. Get ready to explore the world of wireless audio and discover which Apple earbuds are the perfect fit for you.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | 3rd gen AirPods | AirPods Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | H1 | H1 |
| Spatial Audio | Yes | Yes |
| Active Noise Cancellation | No | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | No | Yes |
| Adaptive EQ | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 (earbuds & case) | IPX4 (earbuds & case) |
| Charging Case | MagSafe & Lightning | MagSafe & Lightning |
| Battery Life (earbuds) | Up to 6 hours | Up to 4.5 hours (with ANC) |
| Battery Life (with case) | Up to 30 hours | Up to 24 hours (with case) |
| Controls | Force Sensor | Force Sensor |
| Microphones | Dual beamforming | Dual beamforming, inward-facing |
| Ear Tips | Open | Silicone (S, M, L) |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Fit
- 3rd Gen Airpods: Feature a more universal, contoured design similar to the AirPods Pro, but without silicone tips. They offer a more comfortable fit for many than previous generations, but may not be as secure for all ear shapes.
- Airpods Pro: Come with three sizes of soft, silicone ear tips for a customizable and secure fit. This design helps with noise isolation and ensures a snug fit, making them suitable for workouts and active use.
- Winner: AirPods Pro
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- 3rd Gen Airpods: Do not have Active Noise Cancellation. They offer some noise isolation due to their design, but do not actively block out external sounds.
- Airpods Pro: Feature Active Noise Cancellation, which significantly reduces background noise for a more immersive listening experience. This is especially useful in loud environments like public transport or busy offices.
- Winner: AirPods Pro
Transparency Mode
- 3rd Gen Airpods: Do not have Transparency Mode.
- Airpods Pro: Include Transparency Mode, which allows you to hear the outside world while still wearing the earbuds. This is helpful for conversations or remaining aware of your surroundings.
- Winner: AirPods Pro
Sound Quality
- 3rd Gen Airpods: Offer improved sound quality compared to previous generations, with spatial audio support and adaptive EQ. They provide a balanced sound profile suitable for various music genres.
- Airpods Pro: Deliver a richer, more detailed sound experience, partly due to the in-ear design and ANC. They offer a more immersive listening experience.
- Winner: AirPods Pro
Water Resistance
- 3rd Gen Airpods: Are sweat and water-resistant (IPX4 rating), making them suitable for workouts and light rain.
- Airpods Pro: Also have an IPX4 rating for sweat and water resistance.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- 3rd Gen Airpods: Offer up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case.
- Airpods Pro: Provide up to 4.5 hours of listening time with ANC enabled (or 5 hours with ANC off) and up to 24 hours with the charging case.
- Winner: 3rd gen airpods
Charging Case
- 3rd Gen Airpods: Come with a MagSafe charging case, which can be charged wirelessly or via Lightning.
- Airpods Pro: Also include a MagSafe charging case that can be charged wirelessly or via Lightning.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- 3rd Gen Airpods: Are generally more affordable.
- Airpods Pro: Are more expensive.
- Winner: 3rd gen airpods
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation | AirPods Pro |
| Sound Quality (Overall) | AirPods Pro |
| Comfort (for open-ear preference) | 3rd gen AirPods |
| Battery Life (per charge) | 3rd gen AirPods |
| Value for Money | 3rd gen AirPods |
| Features | AirPods Pro |
What They Have in Common
- Spatial Audio: Both the 3rd gen AirPods and AirPods Pro support Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, creating a more immersive listening experience. This feature enhances the audio by placing sounds in a 3D space.
- Adaptive Eq: Both models feature Adaptive EQ, which automatically tunes the music to the shape of your ear for a consistent and personalized listening experience. It analyzes the audio and adjusts the frequencies in real-time.
- H1 Chip: Both AirPods utilize the H1 chip, enabling seamless pairing with Apple devices, easy switching between devices, and hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality. This chip optimizes performance.
- Water Resistance: Both the AirPods 3rd gen and AirPods Pro are rated IPX4, meaning they are water-resistant and can withstand splashes of water and sweat, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use.
- Force Sensor Controls: Both AirPods generations use a force sensor for controlling music playback, answering calls, and activating Siri. This provides a consistent user experience across both models.
- Seamless Integration: Both AirPods models provide seemless integration with the Apple ecosystem, including one-tap setup, automatic device switching, and audio sharing with other AirPods or AirPods Pro.
3rd Gen Airpods Vs Airpods Pro Buying Guide
Design and Comfort
The 3rd generation AirPods feature a redesigned, shorter stem and a more universal fit compared to previous models. They offer a comfortable experience for many users. The AirPods Pro, on the other hand, include silicone ear tips in various sizes, allowing for a more customized and secure fit. This design also contributes significantly to noise isolation. Ultimately, the best choice depends on personal preference and ear shape; some find the standard AirPods more comfortable, while others prefer the secure fit of the Pros.
Sound Quality
Both models deliver impressive sound quality, but they differ in their approach. The 3rd gen AirPods feature spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, creating an immersive, theater-like listening experience. The AirPods Pro, equipped with active noise cancellation (ANC), provide a superior listening environment by blocking out external noise. This allows for a more detailed and focused sound experience. Both offer good audio quality, but the Pro’s ANC gives a clear advantage in noisy environments.
Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is a key feature of the AirPods Pro, actively reducing unwanted background noise. This feature enhances the listening experience, especially in loud environments like public transport or busy streets. The 3rd gen AirPods lack ANC, relying on a more passive noise isolation. Both models include a Transparency mode, which allows you to hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds. The Pro’s Transparency mode is generally considered more effective, offering a more natural sound.
Battery Life and Charging
The 3rd gen AirPods offer slightly better battery life than the AirPods Pro. The 3rd gen delivers up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case. The AirPods Pro provide up to 4.5 hours of listening time with ANC enabled and 24 hours with the charging case. Both cases support wireless charging. The 3rd gen’s superior battery life could be a deciding factor for users who prioritize extended listening sessions.
Water Resistance
Both the 3rd gen AirPods and AirPods Pro offer water resistance, giving some peace of mind during workouts or in light rain. The 3rd gen AirPods are rated IPX4, meaning they are splash-resistant. The AirPods Pro also have an IPX4 rating, providing similar protection against water and sweat. This feature adds durability for everyday use. While both are water-resistant, neither is designed for submersion, so caution should still be exercised near water.
Price and Value
The 3rd gen AirPods are typically more affordable than the AirPods Pro. The difference in price reflects the added features of the Pro, such as ANC and a more secure fit. The value proposition depends on individual needs. If you prioritize noise cancellation and a more customizable fit, the AirPods Pro might be worth the extra cost. If you are on a budget and don’t need ANC, the 3rd gen AirPods offer excellent value for their price, still offering great sound quality and a comfortable fit.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 3rd gen airpods If…
- You prefer an open-ear design and find in-ear tips uncomfortable.
- You want a more affordable option without compromising on key features like Spatial Audio.
- You prioritize longer battery life on a single charge.
- You value the convenience of MagSafe charging.
Buy airpods pro If…
- You need Active Noise Cancellation to block out distractions.
- You want a more secure and customizable fit with interchangeable ear tips.
- You prioritize a more immersive listening experience with Transparency mode.
- You want the best possible audio experience and are willing to pay a premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the 3rd gen AirPods and AirPods Pro?
The primary difference lies in the features: AirPods Pro include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), a more secure fit with silicone ear tips, and Transparency mode. The 3rd gen AirPods offer spatial audio but lack ANC. The AirPods Pro generally provide a more premium experience, while the 3rd gen focus on a balance of features and affordability. Choosing depends on your needs.
Do the 3rd gen AirPods have noise cancellation?
No, the 3rd generation AirPods do not have Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). They rely on their design and a more passive form of noise isolation. ANC is a key feature exclusive to the AirPods Pro. If noise cancellation is a high priority for you, the AirPods Pro are the better choice, providing a more focused listening experience.
Which model offers better sound quality?
Both models offer excellent sound quality. The AirPods Pro, with their ANC, provide a more controlled listening environment, potentially enhancing the perceived sound quality. The 3rd gen AirPods feature spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, creating a more immersive experience. The “better” sound depends on your preferences and the environment you’re listening in.
How is the fit different between the two models?
The 3rd gen AirPods have a universal fit design, similar to previous AirPods. The AirPods Pro come with silicone ear tips in various sizes (S, M, L) to ensure a more secure and customized fit. The Pro’s design helps with noise isolation. The best fit depends on your ear shape. Try them both to see which suits you best.
What is spatial audio?
Spatial audio is a feature that creates a more immersive listening experience by using dynamic head tracking. It makes the sound appear to come from different directions, similar to a home theater system. This feature is available on both the 3rd gen AirPods and AirPods Pro, enhancing the listening experience for supported content.
Which AirPods are better for working out?
Both models are suitable for workouts, as they both have IPX4 water resistance. However, the AirPods Pro’s more secure fit, with the silicone ear tips, might be preferable for intense workouts. The 3rd gen AirPods also work well, but the fit may vary depending on the individual. Consider your activity level and ear shape.
Are the AirPods Pro worth the extra cost?
The AirPods Pro are worth the extra cost if you value Active Noise Cancellation, a customizable fit, and enhanced features like Transparency mode. If you are on a budget and don’t require these features, the 3rd gen AirPods offer great value. Consider your needs and listening environment to make the best decision for you.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the 3rd gen AirPods and AirPods Pro hinges on individual priorities. The AirPods Pro excel with their Active Noise Cancellation and secure fit, offering a premium listening experience. However, the 3rd gen AirPods provide excellent sound quality, spatial audio, and longer battery life at a more affordable price. The best choice depends on your budget and needs.
Winner: AirPods Pro