AirPods Pro 3 Review: Apple’s Best Earbuds Get Even Better

Apple’s third-generation AirPods Pro raise the bar for wireless earbuds with enhanced noise cancellation, improved spatial audio, and better battery life. After extensive testing, here’s everything you need to know about these premium earbuds.

Design and Fit

The AirPods Pro 3 maintain the familiar design while introducing subtle improvements:

Design Updates:

• Slightly shorter stems for better aesthetics
• Improved ear tip design with better seal
• Four ear tip sizes (XS, S, M, L) included
• IPX4 water resistance rating
• Available in classic white only

The fit is exceptional with the new ear tip design providing better comfort for extended wear. The included fit test helps ensure optimal seal for maximum noise cancellation.

Sound Quality: Premium Audio Experience

Audio performance receives significant upgrades:

Audio Features:

• Custom Apple H2 chip for enhanced processing
• Adaptive EQ adjusts sound based on ear shape
• Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
• Hi-Fi audio support with compatible devices
• Improved bass response and clarity

The sound signature is balanced and natural, with excellent separation across frequencies. Spatial Audio creates an immersive listening experience, especially with Apple Music’s spatial tracks.

Active Noise Cancellation: Industry-Leading

The ANC performance is simply outstanding:

• Up to 2x better noise cancellation than previous generation
• Adaptive Transparency mode for situational awareness
• Conversation Awareness automatically lowers volume during conversations
• Excellent performance across various frequency ranges

Whether on planes, trains, or busy streets, the ANC effectively blocks external noise while maintaining audio quality.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery performance sees meaningful improvements:

Battery Specifications:

• 6 hours listening time with ANC on (up from 4.5 hours)
• 30 hours total with MagSafe charging case
• Fast charging: 5 minutes = 1 hour of listening
• Wireless charging: MagSafe, Qi, Lightning
• USB-C charging case option available

New Features and Functionality

Several new features enhance the user experience:

Touch Controls:

• Volume control via up/down swipes on stems
• Improved force sensor responsiveness
• Customizable controls through Settings

Smart Features:

• Adaptive Audio automatically adjusts ANC and Transparency
• Personalized Volume learns your preferences
• Mute/Unmute during calls with stem press
• Find My support with precision finding

Call Quality and Connectivity

Voice call performance is excellent:

• Clear voice transmission with beamforming mics
• Effective wind noise reduction
• Seamless device switching with Apple ecosystem
• Bluetooth 5.3 for stable connection
• Automatic device switching between iPhone, iPad, Mac

Pros and Cons

Pros ✅

• Outstanding active noise cancellation
• Excellent sound quality and spatial audio
• Improved battery life (6 hours per charge)
• Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes
• Seamless Apple ecosystem integration
• Effective transparency mode
• Fast charging capabilities

Cons ❌

• Premium price point ($249)
• Limited to Apple ecosystem for best features
• No color options besides white
• Ear tips may still not fit all ear shapes perfectly
• Case can be slippery

Comparison with Competitors

vs. Sony WF-1000XM4:

• Better integration with Apple devices
• Similar ANC performance
• Sony offers more EQ customization

vs. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds:

• AirPods Pro 3 have better battery life
• Bose slightly better ANC for some users
• AirPods Pro 3 more compact design

Who Should Buy These?

Perfect for:

• iPhone and Mac users
• Frequent travelers needing excellent ANC
• Music enthusiasts wanting spatial audio
• Users prioritizing seamless device integration
• Active users needing reliable wireless earbuds

Consider alternatives if: You primarily use Android devices or prefer over-ear headphones.

Setup and Ecosystem Integration

Setup is effortless within the Apple ecosystem:

• One-tap pairing with iPhone
• Automatic syncing across Apple devices
• Siri integration for hands-free control
• iCloud syncing of settings and preferences

Final Verdict

Rating: 4.8/5 stars

The AirPods Pro 3 represent the pinnacle of wireless earbud technology for Apple users. With industry-leading noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, and seamless ecosystem integration, they justify their premium price for the target audience.

Best for: Apple ecosystem users wanting the ultimate wireless earbud experience.

Check Apple’s website and authorized retailers for current pricing, availability, and any ongoing promotions.