Airpods Gen 2 vs 3: Which Airpods Are Right for You?
Are you torn between the Apple AirPods (2nd generation) and the newer AirPods (3rd generation)? You’re not alone! Choosing the right pair of wireless earbuds can be tricky, especially when Apple offers multiple options.
This in-depth comparison of the AirPods Gen 2 vs 3 will break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision. We’ll delve into the design, sound quality, features, and overall value of each model.
Whether you’re upgrading from an older pair or just entering the world of AirPods, this guide will help you understand the key differences. Get ready to discover which AirPods best suit your listening preferences and budget!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | AirPods 2 | AirPods 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | H1 | H1 |
| Spatial Audio | No | Yes |
| Adaptive EQ | No | Yes |
| Sweat and Water Resistance | No | Yes (IPX4) |
| Charging Case | Wired or Wireless (Optional) | Wired or MagSafe Wireless |
| Battery Life (Earbuds) | Up to 5 hours | Up to 6 hours |
| Battery Life (with Case) | Up to 24 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Audio Codec Support | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC |
| Microphones | Dual beamforming microphones | Dual beamforming microphones, inward-facing microphone |
| Controls | Tap | Force sensor |
| Case Design | Standard | Contoured |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design
- Airpod Gen 2: Features the original AirPods design with a universal fit. They are lightweight and comfortable for many, but the lack of silicone tips can lead to a less secure fit and sound leakage for some.
- 3: Features a redesigned, shorter stem and a more contoured shape. Offers a more universal fit for some, with a similar potential for a less secure fit and sound leakage.
- Winner: Tie
Audio Quality
- Airpod Gen 2: Provides decent audio quality for calls and casual listening. Sound is generally balanced but lacks the richness and depth of higher-end earbuds.
- 3: Offers improved audio quality with Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ. Delivers a more immersive and balanced listening experience compared to the 2nd generation.
- Winner: 3
Noise Cancellation
- Airpod Gen 2: Does not include active noise cancellation. Provides some passive noise isolation due to the in-ear design, but ambient noise is easily heard.
- 3: Does not include active noise cancellation. Provides some passive noise isolation due to the in-ear design, but ambient noise is easily heard.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Airpod Gen 2: Offers up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 24 hours with the charging case.
- 3: Offers up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case.
- Winner: 3
Charging Case
- Airpod Gen 2: Comes with a charging case that supports standard charging. Can be purchased with or without wireless charging.
- 3: Comes with a charging case that supports MagSafe charging, as well as standard charging.
- Winner: 3
Water Resistance
- Airpod Gen 2: Offers no water resistance.
- 3: Offers an IPX4 water resistance rating, meaning they’re splash-proof and sweat-resistant.
- Winner: 3
Connectivity
- Airpod Gen 2: Utilizes Bluetooth for connection to devices and offers seamless pairing with Apple devices.
- 3: Utilizes Bluetooth for connection to devices and offers seamless pairing with Apple devices.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Airpod Gen 2: Generally the more affordable option.
- 3: Higher price point.
- Winner: airpod gen 2
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Value | AirPods 2 |
| Sound Quality | AirPods 3 |
| Features | AirPods 3 |
| Design | AirPods 3 |
| Battery Life | AirPods 3 |
What They Have in Common
- Ease of Use: Both AirPods generations offer seamless pairing with Apple devices and easy switching between them.
- Sound Quality: Both provide a generally pleasant listening experience, suitable for everyday use.
- Handoff: Both support automatic switching between Apple devices.
- Comfort: Both feature a lightweight and comfortable design for extended wear.
- Voice Assistant: Both fully integrate with Siri for voice commands and control.
- Connectivity: Both connect via Bluetooth to your devices.
AirPods Gen 2 vs 3 Buying Guide
Sound Quality Comparison
The AirPods 3 significantly improve on the sound quality of the AirPods 2. They feature Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, creating a more immersive listening experience. This technology enhances the perceived directionality of sound, making music, movies, and games feel more realistic. The AirPods 3 also boast better bass response and overall clarity compared to the AirPods 2, which sound a bit flatter in comparison. While the AirPods 2 still offer acceptable audio, the upgrade in the 3rd generation is noticeable and worth considering for audiophiles.
Design and Comfort Analysis
AirPods 3 have a redesigned, shorter stem compared to the AirPods 2. This design change, along with a more contoured shape, often leads to a more comfortable fit for many users. The AirPods 2 are still comfortable, but some users find the older design less secure. Both models are lightweight and designed for all-day wear, but the fit can vary depending on individual ear shapes. Consider trying both on if possible to determine which design suits your ears best.
Battery Life Evaluation
AirPods 3 offer a longer battery life compared to the AirPods 2. The 3rd generation provides up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, while the AirPods 2 offer up to 5 hours. The charging cases also provide additional battery life. AirPods 3 case gives up to 30 hours of total listening time, and the AirPods 2 case provides up to 24 hours. If battery life is a priority, the AirPods 3 are the better choice, especially for longer listening sessions.
Features and Functionality Breakdown
AirPods 3 introduce several new features absent in the AirPods 2. Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking is the most prominent, enhancing the immersive experience. They also feature Adaptive EQ, which automatically tunes the music to the shape of your ear. The AirPods 2 have basic features like easy pairing with Apple devices and access to Siri. While both support Siri, the AirPods 3 offer a more advanced feature set, making them more versatile.
Price Point and Value Assessment
The AirPods 2 are generally more affordable than the AirPods 3. The price difference can be a significant factor for budget-conscious buyers. The value proposition depends on your priorities. If you prioritize the latest features and improved sound quality, the AirPods 3 are worth the extra cost. However, if you are looking for a basic pair of AirPods and are happy with decent audio and don’t need Spatial Audio, the AirPods 2 remain a good value.
Charging Case Comparison
The charging cases differ between the two models. The AirPods 3 case is MagSafe compatible, offering convenient wireless charging. The AirPods 2 case, while still capable of wireless charging in some versions, does not support MagSafe. The AirPods 3 case is also slightly more compact. Both cases offer multiple additional charges for the earbuds. The choice of which case is better depends on your charging preferences and whether you use MagSafe accessories.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy AirPods 2 If…
- You’re on a tighter budget.
- You primarily use AirPods for casual listening.
- You don’t need the latest features like Spatial Audio.
- You prefer a more basic design.
Buy AirPods 3 If…
- You want improved audio quality with Spatial Audio.
- You value sweat and water resistance.
- You want longer battery life.
- You want a more modern design and features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spatial Audio, and how does it affect the listening experience?
Spatial Audio is a feature that creates a three-dimensional listening experience. It uses dynamic head tracking to place sounds in a virtual space, making it feel like the audio is coming from all around you. This enhances immersion, especially in movies and music. It makes the sound feel more realistic and creates a more engaging listening experience. It’s a key differentiator for the AirPods 3.
How does Adaptive EQ work in the AirPods 3?
Adaptive EQ analyzes the sound as it’s being played and automatically adjusts the frequencies to provide the best possible sound based on the shape of your ear. This personalized tuning optimizes the audio output for a more consistent and balanced listening experience. This feature is not available in the AirPods 2 and contributes to the superior sound quality of the AirPods 3.
Are the AirPods 3 more comfortable than the AirPods 2?
While comfort is subjective, the AirPods 3 often provide a more comfortable fit for many users because of their redesigned shape. The shorter stem and contoured design can make them feel more secure and less likely to fall out. However, some users still prefer the fit of the AirPods 2. It is best to try both designs to determine which one is more comfortable for you.
What are the key differences in battery life between the two models?
AirPods 3 offer longer battery life than AirPods 2. The AirPods 3 provide up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge compared to the 5 hours of the AirPods 2. The charging cases also provide more total listening time. The AirPods 3 charging case offers up to 30 hours of total listening time, and the AirPods 2 case offers up to 24 hours.
Can I use AirPods 3 with older Apple devices?
Yes, you can generally use AirPods 3 with older Apple devices. However, you might not be able to access all the advanced features, such as Spatial Audio, if your device doesn’t support them. Check the compatibility of your specific device with the AirPods 3 on Apple’s website. The basic functionality will still work, allowing you to listen to audio and use them for phone calls.
Do the AirPods 3 have noise cancellation?
No, the AirPods 3 do not have active noise cancellation (ANC). This is a feature found in the AirPods Pro models. The AirPods 3 do offer improved sound quality and a better fit, but they rely on passive noise isolation to reduce background noise. If noise cancellation is a high priority, consider AirPods Pro instead.
Which model is better for making phone calls?
Both AirPods 2 and AirPods 3 are decent for making phone calls, but the AirPods 3 offer some improvements. They include an updated microphone system, better wind noise reduction, and overall clearer voice pickup. While both are functional, the AirPods 3 generally provide a better call quality experience in various environments, including those with some background noise.
Final Verdict
The AirPods 3 offer significant upgrades over the AirPods 2, primarily in sound quality, features, and battery life. While the AirPods 2 remain a viable option for those on a budget, the enhanced audio experience, Spatial Audio, and improved comfort of the AirPods 3 make them the superior choice for most users. If you prioritize the best possible listening experience, the AirPods 3 are the clear winner.
Winner: AirPods 3