AirPods Pro vs AirPods Pro 3 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

AirPods Pro 3 & AirPods Pro share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the AirPods Pro 3 rather than the AirPods Pro.

Table Of Contents hide

1 Why Do I Recommend The AirPods Pro 3?

2 Side By Side Comparison

3 What Common Both Can Do?

4 Common Features

Why Do I Recommend The AirPods Pro 3?

The AirPods Pro 3 features improved active noise cancellation for significantly stronger ambient noise reduction in loud environments, whereas the AirPods Pro uses an earlier ANC system that is less effective at blocking low-frequency sounds.
AirPods Pro 3 includes a built-in heart rate sensor for real-time fitness tracking and health monitoring during workouts, while the AirPods Pro lacks any biometric tracking capabilities.
It comes with a new foam-infused silicone ear tip design for a more secure and comfortable fit during extended use, whereas the AirPods Pro uses standard silicone ear tips.
The AirPods Pro 3 delivers up to 8 hours of continuous playback with active noise cancellation enabled for longer listening sessions, while the AirPods Pro provides around 6 hours under similar conditions.
AirPods Pro 3 includes a next-generation Ultra Wideband chip in the case for more precise Find My location tracking, whereas the AirPods Pro uses the first-generation U1 chip with lower tracking accuracy.
It features enhanced adaptive audio with dynamic sound tuning for smoother transitions between quiet and noisy environments, while the AirPods Pro uses a less advanced adaptive algorithm.
The AirPods Pro 3 comes with five ear-tip size options including an extra-small XXS size for better fit diversity, whereas the AirPods Pro provides only four tip sizes without the new smaller option.
AirPods Pro 3 supports an IP57 dust and water resistance rating for better durability against sweat and outdoor conditions, while the AirPods Pro is limited to an IP54 rating that provides less protection.

Maybe the AirPods Pro price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the AirPods Pro 3. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Check AirPods Pro 3 Best Price

Check AirPods Pro Best Price

Side By Side Comparison

Feature	AirPods Pro 3	AirPods Pro
ANC claim	Up to 2× vs AirPods Pro 2	Up to 2× vs original AirPods Pro
Ear-tip sizes	XXS/XS/S/M/L	XS/S/M/L
IP rating (buds & case)	IP57	IP54
Single-charge listening (ANC on)	Up to 8 hours	Up to 6 hours
Single-charge listening with HR sensing	Up to 6.5 hours	Not applicable
Earbud weight (each)	5.55 g	5.3 g
Earbud depth	27.0 mm	24.0 mm
Case height	47.2 mm	45.2 mm
Case width	62.2 mm	60.6 mm
Case depth	21.8 mm	21.7 mm
UWB chip in case	2nd-generation UWB	1st-generation UWB
Heart-rate sensor	Built-in	Not present
Price	Check AirPods Pro 3 Price	Check AirPods Pro Price

What Common Both Can Do?

Active Noise Cancellation: Both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro use advanced ANC technology to actively reduce surrounding noise, providing an immersive and distraction-free listening experience. This shared capability makes both earbuds ideal for travel, commuting, or working in noisy environments.
Transparency Mode: Each model supports a transparency mode that allows environmental sounds to pass through naturally. This feature ensures safety and situational awareness when crossing streets or engaging in quick conversations without removing the earbuds.
Adaptive EQ: Both earbuds automatically adjust the low- and mid-frequencies in real time according to the user’s ear shape. This results in consistent and balanced sound quality for all users, regardless of ear canal differences.
Personalized Spatial Audio: Both models use iOS-based head-and-ear mapping to personalize Spatial Audio output. This ensures a more accurate 3D sound field that matches each listener’s individual hearing profile.
Dynamic Head Tracking: Each AirPods Pro version supports dynamic head tracking for Spatial Audio, ensuring that sound sources remain fixed in space even when the user moves their head. This enhances realism during movies and games.
H2 Audio Chip: Both earbuds feature Apple’s H2 audio processor, responsible for efficient noise cancellation, adaptive sound tuning, and reduced latency. It ensures smooth integration with iOS and optimized performance across Apple’s ecosystem.
Bluetooth 5.3 Connectivity: Both use the same Bluetooth 5.3 standard, providing stable wireless connections with lower latency and improved energy efficiency. This benefits users who frequently switch between devices like iPhones, Macs, and iPads.
Conversation Awareness: Both models automatically lower audio volume and enhance voices when a person starts speaking. This convenient feature lets users interact quickly without pausing or removing the earbuds.
Touch Controls on Stem: Both earbuds include capacitive touch controls on their stems for playback, volume, and call management. This shared control method provides intuitive operation without relying on a phone or watch.
MagSafe Charging Case: Each comes with a MagSafe-compatible charging case that easily aligns with magnetic chargers. This makes charging simpler and faster while maintaining compatibility with Apple’s wireless charging ecosystem.
Wireless Charging Support: Both cases support Qi and MagSafe wireless charging. This allows for convenient charging across a variety of chargers without needing cables.
“Hey Siri” Voice Activation: Both support hands-free “Hey Siri” activation for voice commands, calls, and navigation. This enhances productivity and accessibility while keeping hands free for other tasks.
Find My Integration: Each case integrates with Apple’s Find My network for easy location tracking. This helps users quickly locate misplaced earbuds or cases through precise device tracking on iPhones.
Vent System for Pressure Equalization: Both models include internal vents to balance pressure within the ear. This reduces discomfort during long listening sessions and maintains a natural feel when worn.
Force Sensor for Playback Control: Both earbuds use a force sensor for tactile control, allowing users to play, pause, skip tracks, or answer calls. This consistent system ensures reliable operation even during workouts.
Dual Beamforming Microphones: Each model uses dual beamforming mics for clearer voice pickup and better background noise rejection. This improves call quality and Siri voice detection accuracy.
Skin-Detect Sensors for Auto Play/Pause: Both include optical skin-detect sensors that automatically pause playback when the earbuds are removed. This preserves battery life and provides seamless playback control.
Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos: Both models support Dolby Atmos Spatial Audio playback, providing immersive surround sound effects in supported apps and music platforms.
Fast Pairing with Apple Devices: Each pair of AirPods instantly connects with Apple devices linked to the same iCloud account. This simplifies device switching and enhances user convenience across multiple Apple products.

Check AirPods Pro 3 Best Price

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Common Features

Feature	AirPods Pro 3	AirPods Pro
Active Noise Cancellation	Yes	Yes
Transparency Mode	Yes	Yes
Adaptive EQ	Yes	Yes
Personalized Spatial Audio	Yes	Yes
Dynamic Head Tracking	Yes	Yes
H2 Audio Chip	Yes	Yes
Bluetooth 5.3 Connectivity	Yes	Yes
Conversation Awareness	Yes	Yes
Touch Controls on Stem	Yes	Yes
MagSafe Charging Case	Yes	Yes
Wireless Charging Support	Yes	Yes
“Hey Siri” Voice Activation	Yes	Yes
Find My Integration	Yes	Yes
Vent System for Pressure Equalization	Yes	Yes
Force Sensor for Playback Control	Yes	Yes
Dual Beamforming Microphones	Yes	Yes
Skin-Detect Sensors for Auto Play/Pause	Yes	Yes
Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos	Yes	Yes
Fast Pairing with Apple Devices	Yes	Yes
Price	Check AirPods Pro 3 Price	Check AirPods Pro Price

FAQ

Are the AirPods Pro 3 compatible with the same devices as the AirPods Pro?
Yes, both models are compatible with all Apple devices running the latest iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS versions, as well as most Bluetooth-enabled Android and Windows devices. Pairing remains simple and quick via Bluetooth or Apple’s H2 chip pairing system.

Do both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro support wireless charging?
Yes, both models support MagSafe and Qi wireless charging. The AirPods Pro 3 charging case also remains compatible with Lightning or USB-C chargers depending on the variant, ensuring flexibility in charging options.

Is there a difference in the noise cancellation between AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro?
Yes, the AirPods Pro 3 feature improved active noise cancellation with enhanced computational audio processing. While the AirPods Pro already deliver strong ANC, the Pro 3 version further reduces external noise more effectively, particularly in lower frequencies.

Can both models be used for fitness and workouts?
Yes, both earbuds are sweat- and water-resistant, making them suitable for workouts. However, the AirPods Pro 3 have a higher IP57 rating compared to the AirPods Pro’s IP54 rating, providing better dust and sweat protection for intense exercise.

Do both models include Spatial Audio support?
Yes, both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro include Spatial Audio with head tracking. This feature offers an immersive, 3D-like listening experience that enhances music, movies, and games across compatible Apple platforms.

Is there a difference in battery life between the two models?
Yes, the AirPods Pro 3 deliver up to 8 hours of continuous playback with ANC on, while the AirPods Pro provide about 6 hours under the same conditions. The new generation also manages power more efficiently during calls and fitness tracking.

Do both earbuds use the same chip for processing?
Yes, both use Apple’s H2 chip, which enables features such as improved ANC, adaptive EQ, and Spatial Audio. The chip also ensures stable Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and smooth transitions between devices.

Can both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro use Find My for tracking?
Yes, both integrate with Apple’s Find My network, allowing users to locate misplaced earbuds or charging cases through the Find My app. The AirPods Pro 3 include a newer generation UWB chip for more precise location accuracy.

Do both models feature Adaptive Transparency?
Yes, both versions support Adaptive Transparency, which automatically adjusts the level of outside noise that passes through. This allows users to stay aware of surroundings without being overwhelmed by loud external sounds.

Are both models suitable for calls and meetings?
Yes, both have dual beamforming microphones and advanced noise reduction for clear voice pickup during calls or video meetings. The AirPods Pro 3 slightly improve voice clarity through better wind and background noise management.

Can both models automatically switch between Apple devices?
Yes, both support automatic device switching through iCloud, letting users move seamlessly between iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch without manual pairing. This makes multitasking across Apple devices effortless.

Do both models work with Siri voice control?
Yes, both support hands-free “Hey Siri” voice commands. Users can make calls, control music, get directions, or check messages without touching the earbuds, thanks to built-in microphones and Siri integration.

Are both AirPods models comfortable for long listening sessions?
Yes, both include multiple silicone ear-tip sizes to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. The AirPods Pro 3 add a fifth, smaller XXS tip option and a redesigned inner shape for improved fit and reduced ear fatigue.

Can I use only one earbud at a time on both models?
Yes, both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro can be used independently, allowing mono listening with either earbud. This feature is useful for calls, podcasts, or conserving battery when one earbud is charging.

Do both models support personalized audio profiles?
Yes, both support personalized Spatial Audio using ear and head mapping via an iPhone’s TrueDepth camera. This creates a customized sound profile tailored to each user’s ear shape for a more accurate listening experience.