So if you're considering picking up a pair of the best true wireless earbuds from Apple, this AirPods Pro 2 vs AirPods Pro 3 comparison dives much deeper than sound quality and digs into the important changes that justify the latest AirPods Pro purchase over the current high-performing model, that is readily available now – it's a tough decision, though some people won't have to make it given the changes introduced.
The AirPods Pro 3 continues using the H2 chip first seen in AirPods Pro 2 but incorporates numerous hardware tweaks and a redesign that will affect their fit and fit into your ears – this means a new chip hasn’t been introduced; it’s simply more of the same chip with better implementation in new hardware.
Aside from the design tweak, the Acoustic System on the newer AirPods Pro headphones has been redesigned, offering a total of 5 ear-tip sizes (compared to 4 on AirPods Pro 2), and adding a new heart-rate sensor for fitness purposes.
The top AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Pro 3 differences are ANC (Active Noise Cancelation), fit, sound quality, and the all-inclusive battery performance, along with enhanced workout features on the newer model; on both models, you'll find Apple’s latest Adaptive Audio and Personalized Spatial Audio features.
This will be most welcomed by travelers, but ANC has been the defining characteristic of Apple's AirPods Pro line since day one, and Pro 3 comes even stronger in that area, offering a stronger level of audio cancellation of background noise; this is due to improved Active Noise Cancellation hardware, microphone arrangement, and an acoustic seal.
Apple is claiming the Pro 3 offers up to 2x more cancellation of ambient noise compared to the Pro 2. AirPods noise cancellation will have the highest impact during flights or train commutes with noisy passenger cabins and engines rumbling. But the AirPods Pro 2 still offers a significant enough reduction in noise for most use cases.
Although already well-regarded for sound, the AirPods Pro 3 feature a redesigned acoustic system and adjusted audio tuning that results in clearer, richer sound with a deeper, bolder bass delivery; this may be appreciated by more discerning audiophiles.
If the sound on the current set of Pro 2s satisfies you, an upgrade based on sound alone may not be worthwhile because the AirPods Pro sound quality improvement is slight compared to other factors.
When it comes to AirPods Pro 2 vs AirPods Pro 3 fitting into ears, Comfort is personal, but there's a difference here as AirPods Pro 3 includes five silicone ear tips, from size XX-Small up to Large, compared to the four from the Pro 2 model (Small to Extra-Large).
This improvement in sizing and fit will be noticeable for those who have found current-model Pros to be a tad too large to get the desired secure and comfortable fit, helping to maximize ANC effectiveness and AirPods Pro 2 vs AirPods Pro 3 sound quality.
Even without the added sizing, many find the Pro 2s to fit well; the improved fit may encourage more secure placement during workouts and help users lock in their desired listening experience.
While ANC has seen a dramatic improvement, the AirPods Pro battery life has also been boosted, providing consumers with additional listening time on a full charge. Here's a rundown of what Apple is claiming for battery performance (ANC on):
AirPods Pro battery life:
The Pro 3 sees a major new feature in health monitoring and workout tracking: the ability to sense your heart rate. For fitness enthusiasts who love their Apple devices and are hoping to take advantage of their new Apple Watch’s capabilities and the integration, the AirPods Pro 3 may be the most compelling choice when it comes to this feature set. And the Pro 3 sports 5K, water, and dust resistance versus 3.0 K on the AirPods Pro 2, which should make it that much more appealing.
Better and more powerful ANC on the new AirPods Pro 3 offers the most noticeable advantage to those looking for a top-tier pair of noise-cancelling earbuds for flights, commutes, or anything in between.
Enhanced battery life and an overall better acoustic system also push the newer model ahead for travel purposes, even with the Pro 2’s excellent noise-cancelling experience.
When considering the AirPods Pro price for Apple AirPods Pro 2 and Pro 3, usually you'll find that Apple has launched new earbuds at a 2% premium for the more premium-designed hardware, and unless either product is experiencing heavy discounts due to major shopping seasons like the holidays, the price difference between the AirPods Pro 2 and 3 won't be too vast to dismiss.
It's for this exact reason that it often becomes prudent to explore whether the benefits of the Pro 3 are enough for you to spend the additional $20 to $50 typically required.
Given that both earbuds use Apple's H2 chip, have great sound, work seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem, and offer impressive Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency modes, the upgrade path is more nuanced. For existing AirPods Pro 2 users, a Pro 3 upgrade might not be necessary unless:
If the issues you face justify paying that little bit extra for these premium AirPods Pro features, then they’re still worth it.
If you’re buying AirPods Pro for the very first time, the AirPods Pro 3 are technically the better choice overall – so long as you’re not deterred by a big price difference. That means new features, better ANC, and overall the latest tech at a slightly higher cost.
That said, AirPods Pro 2 remain superb earbuds. If AirPods Pro price is a key consideration and the additional Pro 3 features aren’t crucial for you, then going for AirPods Pro 2, especially when on sale, is a smart move.
You should probably buy AirPods Pro 2 if you prefer to prioritize value, particularly if they’re on sale – and want excellent true wireless earbuds. You already have AirPods Pro 2 and find they perform well for most everyday listening or calls.
The added features of the Pro 3 just aren’t a must-have for you. Ultimately, both provide outstanding true wireless earbud experiences, and your choice will come down to what’s most important to you.
In AirPods Pro 2 vs AirPods Pro 3, it’s clear that the Pro 3 is the newer model with updated tech. These add a decent leap in sound, battery life, and ANC, and features like a new seal fit and heart rate monitoring come in very handy.
However, if you find AirPods Pro 2 at a good price, then they still continue to be quite worthwhile. AirPods Pro 2 Owners will see no need to upgrade unless the better AirPods Pro fit, improved noise cancelling, longer battery life, and added workout features are a priority for you.
Yes, you can connect AirPods Pro 3 to an Android device because the connection is through Bluetooth, though not all of the Apple-specific features come through. Apple owners would get a more complete range of features.
Yes, they have an IP57 dust resistance and water resistance rating. That means you are a lot better off going into workouts and moist conditions with your new AirPods, but don’t plan to do much swimming with them.
Yes. It’s really great that the new AirPods Pro come with upgraded Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking; both the AirPods Pro 2 and the AirPods Pro 3 models include dynamic head tracking. It enhances listening to movies, television shows, and many of your favorite musical genres.
Yes, you can get heart rate by using an in-ear rate sensor with AirPods Pro 3s. The heart rate data may then be interpreted by workout apps and be used to improve exercise logging information.
Yes. AirPods Pro 2s still have very good noise cancellation, sound, and many useful features such as spatial audio, Transparency Mode, adaptive Audio, and, of course, Apple’s famous H2 chip, so they still remain a brilliant option to buy, as well as the smart wallet or AirPods.
This content was created by AI