AirPods Pro 2 Vs AirPods Pro 3 – Which Should You Buy?

Specs at a Glance

Feature-by-Feature Breakdown

Winner by Category

What They Have in Common

• Active Noise Cancellation: Both earbuds feature ANC technology, allowing users to minimize ambient sounds for an immersive listening experience.
• Transparency Mode: Each model offers a transparency mode, enabling users to hear their surroundings without removing the earbuds.
• Spatial Audio: Both support spatial audio, providing a 3D listening experience that enhances depth and directionality of sound.
• Adaptive Audio: Both models feature Adaptive Audio, automatically balancing transparency and ANC depending on the environment.
• Conversation Awareness: Each pair lowers media volume when you start speaking, making conversations smoother without removing earbuds.
• Touch Controls: Both support press gestures for play, pause, calls, and volume swipe for quick adjustments.
• Find My Integration: Both include a speaker in the MagSafe case and support precise location tracking with Find My.

FAQ (Quick Answers)

Are AirPods Pro 3 better at noise cancellation than AirPods Pro 2?
Yes, AirPods Pro 3 have improved Active Noise Cancellation that blocks up to four times more noise compared to the original AirPods Pro, making them slightly stronger than AirPods Pro 2.

Do both models support Adaptive Audio and Transparency Mode?
Yes, both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro 2 support Adaptive Audio and Transparency Mode for adjusting sound based on surroundings.

Can AirPods Pro 3 track heart rate?
Yes, AirPods Pro 3 include a built-in heart rate sensor that can measure your heart rate during workouts and sync data to Apple Health. AirPods Pro 2 do not have this feature.

Do AirPods Pro 3 and Pro 2 have the same battery life?
No, AirPods Pro 3 have up to 8 hours of listening with ANC on, while AirPods Pro 2 have up to 6 hours with ANC on. However, AirPods Pro 2 last slightly longer when including the charging case.

Are both charging cases compatible with MagSafe and Apple Watch chargers?
Yes, both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro 2 come with a MagSafe USB-C case that works with Apple Watch chargers, Qi-certified chargers, and includes a lanyard loop and built-in speaker.

Is there a difference in water and dust resistance?
Yes, AirPods Pro 3 are rated IP57, which gives them better protection against dust and water compared to AirPods Pro 2 with an IP54 rating.

Do both support Live Translation and Hearing Aid features?
Yes, both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro 2 support Live Translation, Hearing Test, Hearing Aid, and Hearing Protection features for accessibility and communication.

What is new about the connectivity chip in AirPods Pro 3?
AirPods Pro 3 include a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip for more accurate precision finding in the Find My app compared to the first-generation U1 chip in AirPods Pro 2.

Are there differences in ear tip options?
Yes, AirPods Pro 3 come with five sizes including XXS for smaller ears, while AirPods Pro 2 include four sizes.

Which model is better for future-proofing?
AirPods Pro 3 are better for future-proofing with improved ANC, heart rate sensing, IP57 rating, and the latest Ultra Wideband chip, making them more advanced for long-term use.

How does the sound quality compare between AirPods Pro 2 and Pro 3?
The Pro 3 have a wider soundstage, richer bass, and clearer vocals thanks to a refined acoustic design. The Pro 2 already sound very good, but the Pro 3 offer more depth and detail, especially noticeable for audiophiles.

Is the noise cancellation stronger in AirPods Pro 3?
Yes, the Pro 3 have significantly improved active noise cancellation, reducing external sounds more effectively in noisy environments. The Pro 2 still perform well but are slightly less powerful in blocking consistent background noise.

How long does the battery last on AirPods Pro 3 compared to Pro 2?
The AirPods Pro 3 last up to eight hours per charge, while the AirPods Pro 2 last around six hours. Both charging cases provide around 30 hours of total listening time, but the Pro 3’s buds themselves hold a longer single charge.

Are both models using the same chip?
Both models are powered by Apple’s H2 chip, enabling features like Adaptive Transparency, Personalized Spatial Audio, and fast device switching. The core performance and processing power are similar, though the Pro 3 utilize it more efficiently.

Do AirPods Pro 3 have a new design?
The AirPods Pro 3 have a slightly slimmer design and include an additional XXS ear tip size for better fit variety. The shape feels familiar but is subtly refined to fit more securely in the ear.

Are the AirPods Pro 3 more durable?
Yes, the Pro 3 come with an IP57 rating, making them more resistant to water and dust. The Pro 2 have an IP54 rating, which protects against sweat and splashes but not dust.

Do AirPods Pro 3 include new health tracking features?
The Pro 3 feature an optical heart rate sensor that can measure your pulse during workouts or throughout the day. This is not available on the Pro 2.

Is there a difference in the Find My tracking feature?
The Pro 3’s charging case uses Apple’s U2 chip for more precise Find My tracking, while the Pro 2 use the older U1 chip. Both work with Apple’s Find My network, but Pro 3 are more accurate in locating the case.

Do both models have a USB-C charging port?
Yes, both are available with USB-C charging cases. They also support MagSafe and Qi wireless charging for convenience.

Which model offers better call quality?
The AirPods Pro 3 have improved microphones and noise isolation, resulting in clearer call audio in windy or noisy environments. The Pro 2 still perform well but are slightly less refined.

Are both compatible with Android and Windows devices?
Yes, both models can pair with non-Apple devices via Bluetooth. However, advanced features like Spatial Audio, automatic switching, and Find My integration are only fully functional within the Apple ecosystem.

Do AirPods Pro 3 come with more ear tip options?
Yes, the Pro 3 include five ear tip sizes, adding an XXS size for smaller ears. The Pro 2 include four sizes. This gives the Pro 3 a better chance at achieving a perfect seal for sound and comfort.

How do the two models compare in terms of comfort?
The AirPods Pro 3 feel slightly lighter and have a more ergonomic design that reduces ear fatigue. The foam-infused tips also offer a softer and more stable fit for longer wear.

Do both models support Spatial Audio?
Yes, both support Apple’s Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. The experience is nearly identical on both, offering immersive sound for music and movies.

Are the ear tips interchangeable between the two models?
The tips are similar in design, but the materials differ slightly, so it’s best to use the included tips with each model to ensure proper fit and acoustic balance.

Is the price different between AirPods Pro 2 and Pro 3?
Both models launched at a similar price point. However, the AirPods Pro 2 are now often discounted, making them the more affordable option.

Is upgrading from Pro 2 to Pro 3 worth it?
It depends on your priorities. If you value better noise cancellation, battery life, and fitness tracking, the upgrade is worth it. If your Pro 2 still work well, you may not need to switch immediately.

How do they compare in terms of case design?
The Pro 3’s case is slightly redesigned with better durability and an upgraded chip for location tracking. It’s nearly the same size as the Pro 2’s case but feels a bit sturdier.

What kind of sensor upgrades does Pro 3 have?
In addition to the heart rate sensor, the Pro 3 feature updated motion sensors for more accurate activity and gesture detection, improving how they respond to touch and movement.

Which is better for workouts and outdoor use?
The AirPods Pro 3 are better suited for exercise due to their improved water and dust resistance and heart rate tracking. The Pro 2 can still handle sweat but aren’t as robust.

Do both models have Adaptive Transparency mode?
Yes, both use the H2 chip to adjust external sounds in real time, reducing loud environmental noise while keeping voices audible. The Pro 3 version is slightly faster and smoother in response.

Are there differences in microphone placement or performance?
The Pro 3’s microphones are positioned more precisely for clearer speech and better ambient sound control. The Pro 2 still perform well, but the upgrade provides a subtle edge in voice clarity.

How long will the batteries last over time?
Both use lithium-ion batteries that naturally degrade after a few years. The Pro 3 may last slightly longer due to efficiency improvements, but the lifespan depends on usage and charging habits.

Do both cases support Precision Finding?
Both support Precision Finding through Apple’s network, but the Pro 3’s U2 chip makes location tracking faster and more exact than the Pro 2’s U1 chip.

Is the charging case size different?
The difference is minimal. The Pro 3 case is slightly taller and thicker, but most users won’t notice the change in daily use.

Will AirPods Pro 2 continue to receive software updates?
Yes, Apple continues to update the Pro 2 with new features through firmware. However, hardware-dependent functions like heart rate tracking will remain exclusive to the Pro 3.

Are there any drawbacks to AirPods Pro 3?
The main drawback is the higher cost compared to discounted Pro 2 models. Some users also find the foam tips of the Pro 3 firmer, which might not suit everyone.

Which model offers the best value for money?
The AirPods Pro 2 offer better value if you can find them at a discount, as they deliver most features at a lower cost. The Pro 3 are the better choice for those who want the newest features and maximum performance.