Apple launched the AirPods Pro 2 on September 23, 2022, and the AirPods 3 in October 2021. Both new models have several design changes, including a redesign, and major software updates.
While both models are of high quality, if you want the best audio quality in an Apple-branded pair of earbuds, you’ll want to opt for the AirPods Pro 2 (which offers better bass performance for low-end sounds); however, if price is your biggest concern, then go with the cheaper model that doesn’t have any significant changes – AirPods 3.
| AirPods Pro 2 | AirPods 3 | |
| Controls | Touch controls, Siri | Siri, Force sensor |
| Battery life | 6 hours (earbuds), 30 hours (charging case) | 6 hours (earbuds), 30 hours (charging case) |
| microphones | Dual beamforming microphones; inward-facing microphone | Dual beamforming microphones; inward-facing microphone |
| charging | Lightning and MagSafe | Lightning or MagSafe (MagSafe case) |
| Swappable tips | Yes | No |
| Durability | 1PX4 water and sweat resistant | 1PX4 water and sweat resistant |
| Audio technology | Vent system, adaptive EQ, high-excursion Apple driver, high dynamic range amplifier | High dynamic range amplifier, adaptive EQ, high-excursion Apple driver |
| Audio features | Adaptive transparency, active noise cancellation, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking | Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking |
| Chip | H2 chip and U1(charging case) | H1 chip |
| Weight | 0.19 ounces | 0.15 ounces |
| Price | $249 | $169 |
Design and case
One major difference between the two AirPods is their design. The AirPods 3 have a conventional design, synonymous with Apple’s headphones. The AirPods Pro 2 has a modern look and feel, coming with interchangeable tips. However, the Pros come with stems that are absent in most of their competitors.
The AirPods 3 also lack interchangeable silicone tips. As such, you get a one-fits-all design, which is familiar with most entry-level earbuds. On the other hand, the Pros give you more flexibility since they come with swappable silicone tips. And for added convenience, they come with the XS tip.
As you’d expect, both have an IPX4 rating, meaning they are sweat and water-resistant. Both AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 3 cases are compatible with MagSafe and Qi charging. In addition, the AirPods Pro 2 case is compatible with the Apple charger. This gives you more flexibility when charging on the go.
Moreover, the Pros case is compatible with Precision Finding so you can locate your lost case. You also get a built-in lanyard for improved safety. And thanks to the built-in speaker, it will be easier to locate the case.
Both AirPods come with a force sensors so you can easily control them with your finger. The AirPods 3 however lack the touch-captive layer found in the AirPods Pro 2. The feature allows you to swipe up and down to control the volume.
So, if you want a rather generic design, the AirPods 3 is your best choice. While the AirPods Pro 2 boast of better design, the difference is minute.
Features
While the AirPods Pro 2 comes with better features, there are several that are accessible in both. Both support Apple’s spatial audio feature and personalized spatial audio. The feature allows you to enjoy music with a personal touch.
They also come with Dolby Atmos, adaptive EQ, and dynamic head-tracking. You also get Audio Sharing which allows you to enjoy music through two AirPods sets simultaneously. Finally, you get to enjoy the all-new Auto-pause feature.
The chief difference between the two is the H2 chip found in the AirPods Pro 2. The chip offers better battery life, active noise cancellation, and sound quality. Coupled with stellar mic placement and an optimized acoustic vent, the Pros offer better noise cancellation. As such, with the Pros you don’t have to use ANC to cancel background noises.
Likewise, the AirPods Pro 2 offer you the Adaptive Transparency feature. It helps keep loud noises at a minimum so you can have a comfortable listening experience.
Battery life
Well, the battery life in both Pods is impressive. The AirPods Pro 2 offers up to 6 hours on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case. The AirPods 3 match the Pros offering 6 hours and 30 hours on a single charge and with the charging case respectively. However, with the noise cancellation active on the Pros, you’ll get more battery life.
Sound quality
The sound quality is impressive in the AirPods 3, offering clear, balanced, and detailed sound. As you’d expect, the AirPods Pro 2 will offer better sound as was the case with the Pros. With the new Pros, you can expect a robust sound without sacrificing on tonal and voice balance.
If you want earbuds that will enable you to enjoy the highs, mids, and lows, the new Pros are your perfect choice. This is thanks to their organized and clean audio presentation. When the AirPods Pro launched, they were the best-sounding earbuds in the market.
As you’d expect, the Pros 2 take the mantle, offering dynamic and weighty sound ideal for calls, music, and movies. In fact, they tend to outshine most premium earbuds in the market such as the Sony WF-1000XM4s.
Price
As you’d guess, the AirPods Pro 2 cost more than the AirPods 3. While the new Pros retail at $249, the AirPods 3 retail at $169. In fact, the price for the new Pros is similar to the original AirPods Pro. Quite a good move from Apple, who shied away from bumping up the price of the new Pros.
Conclusion
As you can see, the AirPods Pro 2 is better than the AirPods 3. They come with multiple ear tips, touch controls, and the all-new H2 chip. As such, they offer better sound quality. However, if you are looking for cost-effective earbuds, the AirPods 3 are the perfect choice for you.
