Airpods Gen 3 vs Gen 2: Which Airpods Should You Buy?
Are you in the market for new wireless earbuds and torn between the Apple AirPods generations? You’re not alone! The choice between the AirPods Gen 3 and the AirPods Gen 2 can be tricky, as both offer a seamless experience within the Apple ecosystem, but with key differences. This comparison will break down everything you need to know to make the right decision.
The AirPods Gen 3 brought some significant upgrades, but the Gen 2 remains a popular and more affordable option. We’ll delve into the sound quality, design, battery life, and special features of each model. We will analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both the AirPods Gen 3 and Gen 2.
Whether you’re an audiophile craving superior audio or a budget-conscious buyer looking for value, this guide is for you. We’ll explore the advancements in the AirPods 3 and how they stack up against the established performance of the AirPods 2, helping you determine which pair best suits your needs and lifestyle.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | AirPods 3 | AirPods 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | H1 | H1 |
| Spatial Audio | Yes | No |
| Adaptive EQ | Yes | No |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | No |
| Charging Case | MagSafe & Lightning | Lightning |
| Battery Life (Earbuds) | 6 hours | 5 hours |
| Battery Life (with Case) | 30 hours | 24 hours |
| Microphones | Dual beamforming | Dual beamforming |
| Controls | Force Sensor | Double-tap |
| Audio Codec Support | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Weight (per earbud) | 4.28 g | 4 g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design
- Airpods Gen 3: Features a shorter stem and a more contoured design for a more comfortable fit, though some users may still find they don’t fit perfectly. They are also water-resistant.
- Gen 2: Maintains the classic AirPods design with a longer stem. Fit can be less secure for some users, and they lack any official water resistance.
- Winner: Gen 3
Audio Quality
- Airpods Gen 3: Boasts improved audio quality with Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ, delivering a more immersive and personalized listening experience. Bass is improved over the gen 2.
- Gen 2: Offers decent sound quality but lacks the advanced features of the Gen 3. Sound is more basic.
- Winner: Gen 3
Spatial Audio
- Airpods Gen 3: Includes Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, creating a theater-like sound experience that moves with your head. This provides a more immersive listening experience.
- Gen 2: Does not support Spatial Audio.
- Winner: Gen 3
Battery Life
- Airpods Gen 3: Provides up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case.
- Gen 2: Offers up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 24 hours with the charging case.
- Winner: Gen 3
Charging Case
- Airpods Gen 3: Includes a MagSafe charging case, offering wireless charging and easy attachment to MagSafe accessories.
- Gen 2: Comes with a standard charging case, with optional wireless charging available as a separate purchase.
- Winner: Gen 3
Controls
- Airpods Gen 3: Features force sensor controls on the stem for easier music and call management.
- Gen 2: Uses touch controls, which can sometimes be less responsive than physical buttons.
- Winner: Gen 3
Water Resistance
- Airpods Gen 3: IPX4 water-resistant, making them suitable for workouts and light rain.
- Gen 2: Not water-resistant.
- Winner: Gen 3
Price
- Airpods Gen 3: Generally more expensive than the gen 2.
- Gen 2: More affordable, making them a budget-friendly option.
- Winner: Gen 2
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Audio Quality | AirPods 3 |
| Features | AirPods 3 |
| Battery Life | AirPods 3 |
| Design | Tie |
| Value | AirPods 2 |
| Water Resistance | AirPods 3 |
What They Have in Common:
- Design: Both AirPods generations feature a similar, iconic white design and comfortable fit.
- Seamless Integration: Both models offer seamless pairing and integration with Apple devices.
- Call Quality: Both provide good call quality, utilizing built-in microphones for clear voice capture.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Both use Bluetooth technology to connect to your devices for wireless listening.
- Ease of Use: Both AirPods are easy to set up and use, with intuitive controls.
- Compatibility: Both are compatible with iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and Macs.
AirPods Gen 3 Vs Gen 2 Buying Guide
Design and Comfort
The AirPods Gen 3 feature a more refined design compared to the Gen 2, borrowing elements from the AirPods Pro. They have a shorter stem and a more contoured shape, aiming to fit a wider range of ears. Gen 2 AirPods stick to the original design, which some users find comfortable, while others experience fit issues. The Gen 3 may provide a slightly more secure fit for some users, thanks to the redesigned shape. Consider your ear shape and preferences for stem length when making your decision, as comfort is subjective.
Sound Quality
AirPods Gen 3 offer an improved audio experience. They incorporate Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, creating a more immersive listening experience. The Gen 3 also boasts a new driver and improved sound quality compared to the Gen 2, delivering richer bass and clearer highs. While the Gen 2 provides decent sound for the price point, it lacks the advanced features and audio quality enhancements found in the Gen 3. If sound quality and spatial audio are important to you, the Gen 3 is the superior choice.
Features and Functionality
AirPods Gen 3 bring in additional features. They include sweat and water resistance, providing peace of mind during workouts. The charging case supports MagSafe charging, adding convenience. The Gen 2, while functional, lacks these advancements. Both models offer easy pairing with Apple devices and access to Siri, but the Gen 3 offers a more modern feature set. Consider your lifestyle and the features you value most when deciding.
Battery Life and Charging
AirPods Gen 3 offer a slight improvement in battery life compared to the Gen 2. The Gen 3 provides up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case. Gen 2 offers up to 5 hours of listening time and up to 24 hours with the charging case. Both models provide quick charging capabilities. The Gen 3’s longer battery life and MagSafe charging give it an edge for users who prioritize extended use.
Price and Value
The price difference between AirPods Gen 3 and Gen 2 is a significant factor. Gen 2 is typically the more affordable option. However, the Gen 3 offers better features, including improved sound quality, spatial audio, and water resistance, which justifies its higher price for some. Consider your budget and the features you need. If budget is a primary concern, Gen 2 provides good value. If you value advanced features, Gen 3 offers a worthwhile upgrade.
Call Quality and Mic Performance
Both models provide acceptable call quality. AirPods Gen 3 generally offer improved call quality due to its upgraded microphones and wind noise reduction. The Gen 2 performs reasonably well in quiet environments. However, the Gen 3’s enhanced microphone system helps it perform better in noisy environments. If you frequently make calls, the Gen 3’s better microphone performance makes it a better choice. Consider how important call quality is to your overall experience.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy AirPods 3 If…
- You want improved audio quality with Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ.
- You value a longer battery life.
- You need water resistance for workouts or outdoor use.
- You prefer the convenience of MagSafe charging.
Buy AirPods 2 If…
- You’re on a tighter budget.
- You don’t need the latest audio enhancements.
- You primarily use them indoors.
- You are happy with the basic features and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between AirPods Gen 3 and Gen 2?
The primary differences lie in sound quality, features, and design. Gen 3 offers improved audio with Spatial Audio, a redesigned shape, and additional features like sweat resistance. Gen 2 is more affordable but lacks the advanced features and sound enhancements found in the newer model. The Gen 3 provides a more immersive and feature-rich experience.
Does AirPods Gen 3 have noise cancellation?
No, AirPods Gen 3 do not have active noise cancellation (ANC). They offer a more immersive listening experience with Spatial Audio and enhanced sound quality. If noise cancellation is a must-have feature, you’ll need to consider the AirPods Pro models or other noise-canceling headphones. The focus is on audio quality and a comfortable fit.
Are AirPods Gen 3 water-resistant?
Yes, AirPods Gen 3 are sweat and water-resistant. This makes them suitable for workouts and use in light rain. Gen 2 does not offer this level of protection. While they can withstand some moisture, they’re not fully waterproof. The water resistance provides added durability and peace of mind during various activities.
How long does the battery last on AirPods Gen 3 vs Gen 2?
AirPods Gen 3 offer up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, with up to 30 hours total with the charging case. AirPods Gen 2 offer up to 5 hours of listening time and up to 24 hours with the charging case. Both support quick charging, but the Gen 3 provides slightly extended battery life.
Which AirPods are better for making calls?
AirPods Gen 3 generally offer better call quality. They have improved microphones and wind noise reduction, which helps in noisy environments. Gen 2 performs adequately in quiet settings. For frequent callers, the Gen 3’s enhanced microphone system provides a clearer and more reliable call experience, making it the better option.
Can I use AirPods Gen 3 with Android devices?
Yes, you can use AirPods Gen 3 (and Gen 2) with Android devices. They connect via Bluetooth. However, some advanced features, such as Spatial Audio and automatic device switching, are optimized for Apple devices. You’ll still get a good listening experience, but you might miss out on some Apple-specific integrations.
Which AirPods are best for working out?
AirPods Gen 3 are better for workouts because they are sweat and water-resistant, which protects them from moisture during exercise. The Gen 2 does not have this feature. Both models provide a comfortable fit, but the Gen 3’s added durability makes it the more practical choice for active use. Consider the type of workouts when choosing.
Final Verdict
The AirPods Gen 3 provide a more compelling overall experience with improved sound quality, Spatial Audio, and enhanced features like sweat resistance. While the Gen 2 remains a viable option for budget-conscious buyers, the Gen 3’s upgrades make it the superior choice for most users. The improved audio quality, longer battery life and water resistance provide significant value.
Winner: AirPods Gen 3