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We asked SoundGuys readers which earbuds they’d actually buy, and the results were decisive. Across two polls with more than 1,300 combined votes, the Apple AirPods Pro 3 were the clear favorite over both Sony and Bose’s flagship models.
In the second (711 votes), Apple held a strong 57% edge over the Sony WF-1000XM5, which earned 43%.
Why did readers lean Apple?
Based on our testing, the AirPods Pro 3 offer stronger ANC than both Sony and Bose, better battery life than Bose, and a noticeably broader feature set—including heart-rate tracking, Live Translation, and clinical-grade hearing aid functionality. They also cost less than either competitor at $249 at Amazon, have a higher IP57 durability rating, and deliver one of the most natural transparency modes we’ve tested. For iPhone users especially, that combination is tough to beat.
Excellent ANC • Live Translation • Heart rate sensor
MSRP: $249.00
Adaptive audio and enhanced ANC.
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are a solid update to the Apple wireless earbuds lineup. Improved ANC, IP57 ratings, plus heart rate sensor and fitness tracking built in. There's even a hearing aid mode, and improved spatial audio.
MMikhail63Signed-in owner. This member signed in to publish, so their reviews count for points and show on their profile.Owner · 6–12 months↻ Would buy again
✓Better than expected: Noise cancelling in the real world
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RPRemy PengSigned-in owner. This member signed in to publish, so their reviews count for points and show on their profile.Owner · 1–6 months↻ Would buy again
✓Better than expected: Noise cancelling in the real world
✓Better than expected: Buds and case after months
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DSDarius StoenescuSigned-in owner. This member signed in to publish, so their reviews count for points and show on their profile.Owner · 1–6 months↻ Would buy again
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