It feels like just yesterday we were all marveling at the AirPods Pro 2, and now, Apple's dropped the AirPods Pro 3. For many of us, the immediate question is: should I upgrade? It's a natural thought, especially when you've grown accustomed to the convenience and quality of Apple's earbuds. Let's dive in and see what's new and if it truly moves the needle.
First off, the design. While they look remarkably similar, there are subtle shifts. The AirPods Pro 3 sport a new acoustic chamber and a redesigned ear tip that now includes a mix of silicone and foam, offering five sizes (XXS to L). This is a big deal for comfort and seal, potentially improving both sound isolation and noise cancellation. The charging case has also seen a slight size increase and now features a hidden indicator light, with pairing now done by tapping the case itself, ditching the physical button.
When it comes to the core features, noise cancellation is where the Pro 3 really aims to shine. Apple claims it's twice as effective as the Pro 2, building on the already impressive H2 chip. This translates to a more profound silence, especially for those persistent low-frequency noises like engine hums on planes or trains. However, this enhanced noise cancellation can also lead to a more noticeable ear pressure for some, a sensation reminiscent of the original AirPods Pro.
Audio quality is a bit of a mixed bag, and this is where some users might feel a slight step back. While the Pro 3 boasts a new acoustic structure, the underlying Bluetooth codec remains AAC at 256kbps. For audiophiles, especially those invested in Apple Music's lossless tiers, this is a point of contention. The review suggests the Pro 3 leans into a more 'V-shaped' sound profile, with boosted highs and lows. While the bass is described as punchy and the highs are bright, some find the extreme high frequencies a bit too sharp, even bordering on harsh, especially with certain instruments like violins. The Pro 2, in comparison, is seen as more balanced and less fatiguing for extended listening.
Battery life sees a slight adjustment. The Pro 3 offers 8 hours of listening time on a single charge (with ANC on), compared to the Pro 2's 6 hours. However, the total listening time with the charging case is now 24 hours for the Pro 3, down from 30 hours for the Pro 2. This is a trade-off: longer individual earbud life for less total juice from the case.
One of the more intriguing additions is the heart rate sensor. This opens up possibilities for fitness tracking and potentially more personalized audio experiences in the future, though its immediate practical application for most users might be limited. The Pro 3 also bumps up the water and dust resistance to IP57, a step up from the Pro 2's IP54, offering a bit more peace of mind during workouts or in less-than-ideal weather.
So, who is the AirPods Pro 3 for? If you're an iPhone user who prioritizes the absolute best noise cancellation available in true wireless earbuds and isn't overly concerned with the nuances of audio codecs or a slightly more aggressive sound signature, the Pro 3 is a compelling option. The improved comfort and enhanced ANC are significant. However, if you're coming from the Pro 2 and value a more balanced sound profile, or if the thought of AAC 256kbps is a dealbreaker, you might find the upgrade less impactful. For many Pro 2 owners, sticking with what they have, perhaps with some third-party ear tips for a better fit, might be the more sensible choice. The Pro 2 remains a fantastic all-rounder, and the Pro 3's advancements, while notable, don't necessarily represent a revolution for everyone.
