AirPods Pro 2 vs AirPods 3 – Which Should You Buy?
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Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 3nd Generation have some difference. The AirPods Pro 2 are newer and come packed with advanced features like Active Noise Cancellation, personalized audio, and a USB-C case. On the other hand, The AirPods 3 keeps things simple with an open-fit design, and seamless Apple ecosystem integration. This article will help you understand the differences between these two models and guide you to the right choice for your needs.
- In a Rush? Here’s the Winner! AirPods Pro 2
Design & Comfort
Processor
Battery Life
Water Resistance
Active Noise Cancellation
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Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
AirPods Pro 2 has an advanced H2 chip for better noise cancellation, improved sound quality, and more efficient performance.
AirPods 3 has older H1 older chip.
Winner:
AirPods Pro 2
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC):
AirPods Pro 2 features 2x better Active Noise Cancellation for blocking out more background noise and delivering an immersive audio experience.
AirPods 3 lacks ANC.
Winner:
AirPods Pro 2
Custom Driver and Amplifier:
AirPods Pro 2 feature a custom high-excursion driver and high-dynamic-range amplifier for providing clearer highs, deeper bass, and overall better sound quality.
AirPods 3 has standard Apple audio driver.
Winner:
AirPods Pro 2
Listening Time:
AirPods Pro 2 deliver up to 6 hours with ANC on, and up to 30 hours with the case.
AirPods 3 offer up to 5 hours of listening, and 30 hours with the case.
Winner:
AirPods Pro 2
On-Device Volume Controls:
AirPods Pro 2 features on-device volume controls with swipe gestures on the stems to adjust volume easily
AirPods 3 do not have on-device volume control.
Winner:
AirPods Pro 2
Charging:
AirPods Pro 2 charging case supports MagSafe and Qi wireless charging and includes USB-C charging for more flexibility.
AirPods 3 support wired Lightning charging.
Winner:
AirPods Pro 2
Advanced Inward-Facing Microphone:
AirPods Pro 2 has advanced inward-facing mics for improved voice pickup, call quality and ANC in real-time, adapting to how the earbuds fit and sound in your ears.
AirPods 3 uses standard mics.
Winner:
AirPods Pro 2
Hearing Aid Function:
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 features a clinically validated Hearing Aid function for enhancing accessibility and hearing assistance.
AirPods 3 support only basic Live Listen.
Winner:
AirPods Pro 2
Adaptive Transparency Mode:
AirPods Pro 2 feature Adaptive Transparency that dynamically reduces loud environmental noises while still allowing ambient awareness.
AirPods 3 lacks transparency feature.
Winner:
AirPods Pro 2
Ear Tip:
Apple AirPods Pro 2 comes with four ear tip size to ensure a better fit with smaller ears.
Apple AirPods 3 has no ear tips.
Winner:
AirPods Pro 2
Durability:
The AirPods Pro 2 is IP54-rated for dust and water resistance, providing extra durability for the case and earbuds.
Apple AirPods 3 is only IPX4-rated and only for the earbuds.
Do both models support Spatial Audio? Yes, both AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 3 support Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for immersive sound, although the Pro 2 offers slightly better processing thanks to the H2 chip.
Which AirPods are better for working out? AirPods Pro 2 are better for intense workouts due to their more secure in-ear fit and improved IP54 dust and water resistance. AirPods 3 are sweat resistant but may not stay in place during vigorous activity.
Can I charge both with USB-C? Only AirPods Pro 2 (2023 version) comes with a USB-C charging case. AirPods 3 use a Lightning connector unless you specifically purchase the MagSafe Charging Case version, which still uses Lightning.
Which model has longer battery life? Both models offer up to 6 hours of listening time and 30 hours with the charging case, but real-world usage may vary slightly depending on whether noise cancellation is active on the Pro 2.
Do they work well with Android phones? Both will function with Android devices for basic Bluetooth audio, but you lose features like automatic device switching, Spatial Audio, and Find My integration, which are exclusive to Apple devices.
Can I use Find My to locate my AirPods? AirPods Pro 2 includes a U1 chip in the case for Precision Finding using the Find My app. AirPods 3 also support Find My but do not offer precise location tracking or sound alerts from the case.
Is there a difference in call quality? Yes, AirPods Pro 2 typically deliver clearer call quality due to their dual beamforming microphones, inward-facing mic, and noise-canceling technology, which helps in noisy environments.
Do either support hearing assistance features? AirPods Pro 2 includes support for features like Conversation Boost and Live Listen, which help people with mild hearing challenges. AirPods 3 do not offer these accessibility features.
Which one is more comfortable for long-term wear? Comfort depends on personal preference. AirPods 3 have an open design that some users find more breathable and comfortable over time. AirPods Pro 2 offer a customizable fit with silicone tips but may feel more intrusive to some.