AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro 3 – Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing the right pair of earbuds often depends on how you use them and the features you value most. The AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 3 both offer excellent wireless audio experiences but cater to different needs. The AirPods Pro 3 focus on premium features like active noise cancellation and a customizable fit, while the AirPods 3 prioritize simplicity and all-day comfort. This comparison will explore their major differences across design, performance, and features so that you can decide which model fits your lifestyle best.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | AirPods Pro 3 | AirPods 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Design | In-ear with silicone tips for noise isolation | Open-ear design with universal fit |
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation and Adaptive Transparency | No ANC, no transparency mode |
| Audio Quality | Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, richer bass | Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, balanced sound |
| Chipset | Latest H2 chip for improved performance and efficiency | H1 chip for fast pairing and solid performance |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours (30 hours with case) with ANC on | Up to 6 hours (30 hours with case) |
| Controls | Touch control with swipe volume adjustment | Force sensor for playback and calls |
| Water Resistance | IP54 rating for buds and case | IPX4 rating for buds |
| Charging Case | MagSafe, Lightning, and USB-C options | MagSafe and Lightning options |
Detailed Feature Comparisons
Design and Fit: The AirPods Pro 3 use silicone ear tips for a secure seal that blocks outside noise, making them ideal for commuting or travel. The AirPods 3 have an open design that rests in your ears, offering comfort for users who dislike in-ear tips but allowing more background sound to come through.
Noise Control: The AirPods Pro 3 include active noise cancellation and adaptive transparency, letting you silence the world or stay aware when needed. The AirPods 3 do not have these features, so they are best for quiet environments or casual listening.
Audio Quality: The Pro model delivers deeper bass and clearer mids thanks to the H2 chip and improved drivers. The AirPods 3 still offer Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, giving a 3D-like soundstage, but their open design lets in more external noise.
Chip and Processing: The AirPods Pro 3 benefit from Apple’s latest H2 chip, which improves connection stability and power efficiency. The AirPods 3 use the previous-generation H1 chip, which is still reliable but lacks some of the Pro model’s advanced processing.
Battery Life: Both models provide around six hours per charge and up to 30 hours with the case, though the AirPods Pro 3 achieve this even with ANC enabled. This means you get more from each charge if you often use noise cancellation.
Controls and Interaction: The AirPods Pro 3 offer swipe controls on the stem to adjust volume directly on the earbuds. The AirPods 3 rely on force sensor presses for play, pause, and calls but do not have swipe gestures.
Water and Sweat Resistance: The AirPods Pro 3 have an IP54 rating, giving both the earbuds and the case extra protection against dust and splashes. The AirPods 3 have IPX4 water resistance for the earbuds only, which is enough for workouts but offers less overall durability.
Charging and Case Features: The AirPods Pro 3 support MagSafe, Lightning, and USB-C charging, making them more versatile for future compatibility. The AirPods 3 work with MagSafe but do not yet offer USB-C as standard on all models.
FAQ
Are the AirPods Pro 3 worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you value active noise cancellation, improved audio quality, and a customizable fit, the Pro model justifies the higher price.
Do AirPods 3 support Spatial Audio?
Yes, AirPods 3 support Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, giving an immersive listening experience for movies and music.
Which model is better for noisy environments?
The AirPods Pro 3 are better thanks to active noise cancellation and adaptive transparency, which reduce background noise significantly.
Do both models work with Android phones?
Yes, they both connect to Android devices over Bluetooth, though you will miss out on features like automatic device switching and Siri integration.
Can I use one AirPod at a time with either model?
Yes, both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 3 support single-ear listening, letting you use just one earbud while the other charges.
Is there a difference in microphone quality?
The AirPods Pro 3 have improved microphones and noise-reduction algorithms, resulting in clearer voice calls, especially in windy conditions.
Do both models support wireless charging?
Yes, both come with a MagSafe charging case option for convenient wireless charging.
Which one is better for workouts?
The AirPods Pro 3 have a more secure in-ear fit and better water resistance, making them more suitable for intense workouts.
Do they have Find My support?
Yes, both models integrate with Apple’s Find My network, helping you locate lost earbuds or cases.
Which is lighter and more comfortable for long listening sessions?
The AirPods 3 are slightly lighter and have an open design that many users find more comfortable for all-day wear.