Overview
This review covers the new Apple AirPods Pro 3, detailing improvements in sound, fit, battery life, water resistance, and new features compared to previous generations. The reviewer also compares them to other leading earbuds and discusses accessory options.
Design and Comfort Improvements
- AirPods Pro 3 closely resemble AirPods Pro 2 but offer several new features.
- Updated ear tips with foam and a new insertion angle provide better fit and seal.
- Five ear tip sizes now available, including double extra small.
- First AirPods generation that consistently stays secure in the reviewer’s ears.
Sound Quality and Performance
- Enhanced bass, fuller mid-range, and crisper highs with minimal distortion.
- Louder maximum volume than previous versions.
- Redesigned vents and interior contribute to improved audio.
- Battery life extends to 8 hours with noise cancellation, 10 hours in transparency mode.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Features
- Claim of “World's best Active Noise Cancellation” with double the performance of the previous model.
- Effective ANC in both studio and flight environments.
- Transparency mode, adaptive EQ, and conversational awareness included.
Durability and Case Updates
- Both earbuds and charging case now rated IP57 for dust and water resistance.
- New case design: slightly larger, brighter indicator light, no pairing button.
- Manual Bluetooth pairing now requires double-tapping the case front.
- Old and new buds/cases are not cross-compatible.
Additional Features
- Integrated heart rate sensor works with Apple Fitness app for workouts.
- Live translation feature available via Apple Intelligence, requiring offline language downloads.
- No charging cable included in the box; relies on users having compatible Apple chargers.
Product Comparisons
- Beats Powerbeats Pro preferred for workouts due to secure fit.
- ANC and comfort outperform Bose QC Ultra 2, Sony WF-1000XM5, and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.
- No lossless audio support except with Vision Pro.
Accessories and Customization
- Dbrand Grip case provides protection and extensive personalization options for the AirPods Pro 3 case.
Recommendations / Advice
- AirPods Pro 3 are highly recommended for iPhone users seeking versatile, high-quality earbuds.
- Ideal for users who want a single pair for everyday use, though over-ear headphones may still be preferable for some.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Consider future comparisons of live translation features across devices as these technologies develop.