Side by side
AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2
Quick verdict
For most iPhone users the AirPods Pro 3 are the better buy; the Pro 2 only make sense if clearly cheaper.
| Criterion | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Noise cancelling | AirPods Pro 3 | Stronger ANC |
| Battery | AirPods Pro 3 | Up to 8 vs 6 hours |
| Fitness | AirPods Pro 3 | Heart-rate sensor for workouts |
| Water resistance | AirPods Pro 3 | IP57 vs IP54 |
| Value | Depends | Pro 2 good if clearly cheaper |
At a glance
| Feature | AirPods Pro 3 | AirPods Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Noise cancelling | Stronger (Apple claims up to 2x vs Pro 2) | Very good |
| Battery per charge (ANC on) | Up to 8 hours | Up to 6 hours |
| Heart-rate sensor | Yes, for workouts | No |
| Water and dust resistance | IP57 | IP54 |
| Ear tips | Foam-infused, five sizes incl. XXS | Silicone, four sizes |
| Chip | H2 | H2 |
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Which one should you buy?
Mister Magelo’s verdict
For most iPhone users the AirPods Pro 3 are the better buy: stronger noise cancelling, longer battery per charge and heart-rate tracking for workouts. The AirPods Pro 2 remain a good choice if you find them clearly cheaper and don't need the fitness features. Owners of the Pro 2 can wait unless battery or ANC bothers them.
Independent recommendation · Retailers can’t pay for rankingChoose AirPods Pro 3 if…
- you want the best noise cancelling Apple offers in earbuds
- you want to track your heart rate while running without a watch
- you often wear earbuds for long stretches
Choose AirPods Pro 2 if…
- you find them clearly cheaper
- you don't need heart-rate tracking
- the Pro 2 fit your ears well and the battery is enough for you