AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2: What’s New This Year?
Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 have officially arrived — three years after the previous model. With upgraded sound, new health features, and improved comfort, here’s how they stack up against AirPods Pro 2.
Audio and Noise Cancellation Upgrades
Apple has taken sound quality to a new level with AirPods Pro 3. Active Noise Cancellation now blocks up to twice as much noise as before, while Adaptive EQ and Transparency Mode both get smarter and more natural.
A redesigned internal structure enhances airflow and bass response, creating a wider, more detailed soundstage. Voices sound crisper, instruments are clearer, and Transparency Mode now makes your own voice and surrounding sounds feel more lifelike.
Design and Fit Enhancements
While AirPods Pro 3 look similar to their predecessors, subtle refinements make a big difference. Each earbud is slightly smaller, and Apple now includes five ear tip sizes — adding an extra-extra-small (XXS) option for a more secure fit.
Every tip now uses a foam-infused material, offering a better seal and improved comfort during longer listening sessions.
Health Tracking and Durability
AirPods Pro 3 expand Apple’s health ambitions with a built-in heart rate sensor — no Apple Watch required. Using infrared light and motion data, they can track heart rate, calories burned, and sync with the Fitness app for workout progress.
The earbuds also get tougher with IP57 dust, sweat, and water resistance, up from the IP54 rating on AirPods Pro 2.
Battery Life: Longer for the Buds, Shorter for the Case
Battery life gets a meaningful boost. AirPods Pro 3 deliver up to 8 hours of listening time with ANC on — a third more than before — and up to 10 hours in Transparency mode.
However, the charging case holds less total charge than the previous model, providing about 24 hours of total listening time compared to 30 hours on AirPods Pro 2.
Smarter Find My with U2 Chip
The charging case now features Apple’s U2 Ultra Wideband chip, improving Find My precision over longer distances. That means locating misplaced AirPods should be quicker and more accurate than ever.
Should You Upgrade?
AirPods Pro 3 bring real improvements where it matters most — sound, comfort, and fitness tracking. Even without a new main chip, Apple’s refinements make these a strong upgrade for anyone who uses their AirPods daily for workouts or travel.
If you’re happy with your AirPods Pro 2, the differences might not be game-changing — but for new buyers or fitness-focused users, AirPods Pro 3 are the best yet.