Apple AirPods 3rd Gen vs Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen)
The Verdict
Apple's AirPods 3 deliver impressive value with 6-hour battery life, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, and the convenient MagSafe charging case at $169. However, AirPods Pro 1st Gen justify their $249 premium through active noise cancellation,a feature absent entirely in the 3rd Gen,plus transparency mode and customizable silicone ear tips for superior fit. Battery life drops to 4.5 hours with ANC enabled on the Pro model, though total case capacity reaches 24 hours. Both share Apple's seamless ecosystem integration and IPX4 water resistance. For commuters, frequent travelers, or anyone prioritizing noise isolation, the AirPods Pro 1st Gen remain the better investment despite the price difference. Those seeking a lighter, longer-lasting option for everyday casual listening will find the AirPods 3 perfectly adequate and genuinely exceptional value.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 3rd Gen if…
- →Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- →MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- →IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
Buy the Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen) if…
- →Excellent ANC for the compact size — blocks most ambient noise
- →Transparency mode sounds remarkably natural
- →Three ear tip sizes ensure a secure, comfortable fit
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 3rd Gen
Pros
- Spatial Audio with head tracking creates an immersive listening experience
- MagSafe charging case is convenient for iPhone and Apple Watch charger users
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance for workouts
- Comfortable open-ear design with shorter stems than AirPods 2
- Excellent microphone quality for calls
Cons
- No active noise cancellation at $169 price point
- Open design leaks sound and doesn't isolate ambient noise
- No ear tips — may not fit all ear shapes securely
- AAC-only codec limits audio quality on Android devices
Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen)
Pros
- Excellent ANC for the compact size — blocks most ambient noise
- Transparency mode sounds remarkably natural
- Three ear tip sizes ensure a secure, comfortable fit
- Spatial Audio support added via firmware update
- Seamless integration across Apple devices
Cons
- 4.5-hour ANC battery life is short compared to newer models
- Lightning charging port — no USB-C
- Ear tips are prone to degradation and cracking over time
- Force sensor on stems can be tricky to press without dislodging
- Superseded by AirPods Pro 2 with significantly better specs
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 3rd Gen | Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.28 g (each) | 5.4 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 6 hrs (earbuds), 30 hrs total with case | 4.5 hrs ANC on (24 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | Lightning or MagSafe wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback | Lightning or Qi wireless charging |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver with custom amplifier | Apple-designed driver with custom amplifier |
| Features | Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Adaptive EQ, MagSafe and wireless charging case, Force sensor controls, Automatic device switching | Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Adaptive EQ, Spatial Audio (added via software update), Three sizes of silicone ear tips, Ear tip fit test |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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