AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro: Which Should You Choose in 2024?

By ANAS KHAN 12 Min Read

Apple’s AirPods have established a reputation for being useful and high-quality wireless earphones. The choice between AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro grows more intricate as the year 2024 progresses. The AirPods 3 appeal to those who want a harmonious combination of performance and cost, owing to their elegant appearance and enhanced functionality. These headphones provide exceptional audio fidelity, effortless connection, and a snug fit, making them well-suited for daily usage. In contrast, AirPods Pro enhances the whole listening experience with its active noise cancellation technology and the ability to customize silicone ear tips, making them ideal for achieving immersive listening in various settings.

Although the increased price of these products is indicative of their sophisticated features, they are specifically designed to meet the needs of audiophiles and frequent travelers who need superior sound quality and improved isolation. In the end, the decision between AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro depends on your preferences: if you value simplicity and affordability, or advanced technology and captivating sound experiences.

Features and controls

Features and controls

There are several shared characteristics between these two models, making it convenient to begin by enumerating their commonalities. Both earbuds have a wide range of additional features specifically tailored for Apple users, which are immediately accessible upon opening the case.

The inclusion of AirPods and Apple’s Beats earphones on your iPhone upon opening the packaging is an ingenious first feature. Although Google and Microsoft provide their versions, they do not possess the same level of efficiency as Apple’s closed system.

Similar to their predecessors, both of these AirPods models are equipped with the H1 chip, enabling a smooth transition between Apple devices when connected to iCloud. While it may not always perform flawlessly, it is generally precise and offers a commendable feature for remote work.

AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro: Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation

AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro: Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation

What distinguishes AirPods Pro from AirPods 3 the most? One notable distinction is the absence of active noise suppression in AirPods 3. Exclusively available on the AirPods Pro, this functionality enables users to effortlessly silence external sounds with a single touch, making it ideal for isolating oneself from the external environment and enhancing focus.

The AirPods 3 now offer spatial audio and dynamic head tracking, a feature that was previously available only on the AirPods Pro. What is the benefit? The music envelops you, creating a sensation akin to being at a movie.

Both the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro have the function of adaptive equalization. Your AirPods can intelligently modify precise configurations, ensuring that you can hear the song exactly the way the performer intended. What is the method by which they do this? The AirPods are equipped with an integrated microphone that captures the music and directs it toward the contours of your ear, resulting in a remarkable outcome.

Differences

AirPods 3

  • Semi-in-ear design
  • Sensor for detecting skin
  • The IPX4 earphones and charging case are designed to be resistant to perspiration and water.
  • A single charge allows for a maximum of six hours of listening time, or up to five hours when spatial audio is activated.
  • The device has a maximum talk duration of four hours per charge.
  • The charging case allows for a maximum of 30 hours of listening time.
  • The charging case allows for a maximum talk time of 20 hours.

AirPods Pro

  • The ear design incorporates silicone ear tips in three distinct sizes.
  • Pressure equalization vent system
  • Two optical sensors
  • Active noise reduction
  • Mode of transparency
  • Enhance Conversation
  • The earphones include IPX4 sweat and water resistance.
  • A single charge allows for a maximum of 4.5 hours of listening time, or up to five hours when active noise reduction and transparency are off.
  • The device has a maximum talk duration of 3.5 hours per charge.
  • The charging case allows for a listening duration exceeding 24 hours.
  • The charging case allows for a conversation lasting 18 hours.

AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro: Battery Life

The recently released AirPods 3 have commendable battery longevity, surpassing that of the AirPods Pro. The AirPods 3 provides a maximum of 6 hours of audio playing per charge, while the AirPods Pro has a battery life of 4.5 hours, resulting in a two-hour increase in battery life and a half-hour increase in talking time. The battery inside the charging case of the AirPods 3 has undergone enhancements in comparison to its predecessor, the AirPods Pro. When the battery level is set to 100%, the AirPods can be charged 3-6 times, while the AirPods Pro may be charged up to 4 times when placed in the case.

FeaturesAirPods ProAirPods 3









Two optical sensors and a pressure sensor3.09 x 2.18 x 2.4 cm3.08 x 1.83 x 1.93 cm
Case sizes:4.54 x 6.06 x 2.17 cm4.64 x 5.44 x 2.14 cm
Spatial audio with dynamic head trackingYesYes
Adaptive equalizationYesYes
Sensor4.5 hours of audio playbackSkin sensor
Noise cancellationYesNo
Battery life6 hours of audio playback6 hours audio playback

Both solutions are very suitable for anyone considering a transition to wireless headphones. We recommend carefully considering the timing of your AirPods use, taking into account noise cancellation capabilities, and selecting the appropriate AirPods model. that most aligns with your preferences! If you want expert guidance, please visit our establishment at InStyle, where we will assist you in identifying the most suitable AirPods for your needs.

Calling and sound performance

In the conducted testing, it was found that distinguishing between calls made on the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro proved to be challenging, if not unattainable, for the callers on the receiving end. In other words, both of them sounded flawless, which is an excellent advantage for those who often use the telephone.

In terms of auditory perception, the AirPods 3 have many notable enhancements derived from the Pro. These include adaptive equalizers (EQ), which use an internal microphone to consistently assess frequencies and tailor the sound to individual preferences, along with spatial audio capabilities.

Spatial audio is widely recognized as a prominent feature but with somewhat restricted applications. The design of this device aims to provide a more immersive auditory experience by supporting various content formats, such as Dolby Atmos for TV and movies on services like Apple TV+ and Disney+, as well as Dolby Atmos Music for songs on the Apple Music service.

Although the function enhances the level of immersion in Dolby Atmos movie material, the most intriguing aspect of music is the head tracking. This feature enables the soundstage to be securely connected to the source device. Rotating your head maintains the soundstage’s central position on the device, enabling you to virtually navigate the auditory environment. This technique aids in the isolation of instruments on the soundstage, hence enhancing the overall liveness of the listening experience.

The addition of these functions to the AirPods 3 by Apple is commendable. Furthermore, the use of new bespoke drivers and amplifiers in these headphones has significantly enhanced the audio quality compared to earlier iterations of the basic AirPods. However, it should be noted that their functionality remains rather restricted, mostly due to the open-shell architecture. The AirPods Pro, along with several other earbuds available at or below their price range, surpass them in terms of intimacy, instrumental body, and overall detail.

The quality of the sound will be contingent upon the degree of fit since a stronger seal will result in superior sound quality. However, in this competition, while there are other comparable characteristics involved, the AirPods Pro unequivocally triumphs in terms of sound quality.

Conclusion

Apple’s AirPods 3 vs AirPods Pro are two wireless earbuds that offer a balance of performance and affordability. AirPods 3 offers a sleek design and updated features, while AirPods Pro offers advanced features like active noise cancellation and customizable silicone ear tips for immersive listening. Both models carry the H1 chip, which allows a seamless transition from Apple devices when logged into iCloud.

The most significant difference between AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro is that AirPods 3 do not have active noise cancellation, which is only found on the AirPods Pro. AirPods 3 also includes spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, which creates a cinematic sound experience. Additionally, both models have adaptive equalization, adjusting settings to hear music as the musician intended it to sound.

FAQS

Are the AirPods Gen 3 better than the AirPods Pro?

You should buy the AirPods 3 if.
If one prefers the softer hooks of the Pro, the AirPods 3 could be a more suitable option. Although the non-Pro variant may seem less visually appealing, the AirPods include two noteworthy audio characteristics that are comparable to their higher-priced counterparts: spatial audio and adaptive EQ.

What is the difference between AirPods 3 and Pro Max?

The Max are headphones equipped with ANC technology. These devices’ superior noise isolation capabilities lead to longer battery life and a more even bass response, both of which some people might prefer. Conversely, the 3rd generation earbuds have a far more portable design.

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