Overview
A comprehensive review of the new Apple AirPods Pro 3, covering physical changes, audio quality, fit, durability, battery improvements, active noise cancellation, integration features, and personal use scenarios, plus a sponsor mention for customizable cases.
Design and Physical Changes
- AirPods Pro 3 look similar to Pro 2 but have substantial new features.
- New ear tips are angled differently and include a firmer foam core for a better seal and fit.
- Five ear tip sizes now, including double extra small.
- Case is thicker, taller, has a hidden but brighter indicator light, and no rear pairing button.
- Pairing now requires opening the case and double-tapping the front for non-Apple devices.
- Ultra Wideband chip in the case enables more precise finding from farther away.
- New buds/cases are not backwards compatible with older generations.
Audio Performance
- Improved sound quality with stronger bass, fuller mids, crisp highs, and minimal distortion at high volume.
- Larger vents and redesigned interior contribute to enhanced airflow and bass response.
- Ear tips and new fit improve passive noise isolation.
Durability and Battery Life
- Upgraded from IPX4 to IP57, making earbuds and case resistant to dust and capable of water submersion.
- Battery life improved to eight hours with noise cancellation and up to ten hours in transparency mode.
- Does not include a charging cable in the box; assumes users have modern Apple charging solutions.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Apple claims “world’s best” ANC, stating it cancels twice as much noise as prior generation.
- Combination of new fit, foam tips, vents, and software tuning enhances ANC.
- ANC tested as highly effective in various environments, including flights and noisy offices.
- Outperformed competitors like Bose QC Ultra 2, Sony WF-1000XM5, and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro in both fit and noise cancellation.
Additional Features
- Integrated heart rate monitor in earbuds, connected to Apple Fitness app for workouts.
- Automatic selection between Apple Watch and AirPods as heart rate source when used simultaneously.
- Live translation feature powered by Apple Intelligence, requires offline language packs, and works without internet.
User Experience and Target Audience
- Much improved fit solves past issues with AirPods staying in ears.
- Excellent for daily use, commuting, and walking; Powerbeats Pro still preferred for intense workouts.
- Best suited for iPhone users; limited compatibility and features with non-Apple devices.
- Reviewer prefers over-ear headphones for travel and movie watching, but sees AirPods Pro 3 as a versatile choice for most.
Sponsor Mention: Dbrand Cases
- Dbrand offers customizable grip cases for AirPods Pro 3 and iPhone 17, protecting cases while allowing personal style.
- Various styles available, including matte black and tactical options.
Recommendations / Advice
- AirPods Pro 3 are highly recommended for users wanting versatile, all-in-one wireless earbuds, especially those deep in the Apple ecosystem.