Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs. AirPods Pro 2: Should you upgrade?

Apple continues to iterate on its AirPods Pro line with the release of the AirPods Pro 3, an ambitious update that adds heart rate tracking, live translation, and improved ANC. But how much better are they than the well-received AirPods Pro 2, which many still consider a gold standard for iPhone-compatible earbuds? We tested both models extensively in our SoundGuys lab, and here’s how they stack up.

What’s it like to use the AirPods Pro 3 compared to the AirPods Pro 2?

The AirPods Pro 3 look nearly identical to the AirPods Pro 2, but the subtle refinements make a difference. Apple shrunk the bulb slightly, which allowed the Pro 3 to sit deeper in my ear canal for a more stable fit. The new foam-infused ear tips also mold better to my ear shape, though they can still slip out once sweat builds up. Meanwhile, the Pro 2 sticks with classic silicone tips in four sizes, which don’t provide quite the same seal consistency. Both charging cases share the same glossy white plastic that scratches easily, but the Pro 3 swaps the pairing button for a touch-sensitive panel, which worked fine once I got used to it.

Durability gets a real bump with the Pro 3’s IP57 rating, making them far better suited for workouts or rainy commutes than the Pro 2’s IP54 protection. Both use stem-squeeze and swipe gestures for playback and volume control, but Apple introduced one neat addition with the Pro 3: a double-stem hold that triggers Live Translation. Otherwise, the interaction experience is nearly identical across both.

What are the new features of the AirPods Pro 3?

The new headline features in the AirPods Pro 3 are a heart-rate sensor and Live Translation. In practice, I found the heart rate tracking reliable for walking and light jogging but inconsistent during intense workouts since the earbuds can slip out. Live Translation is exciting but not seamless—it lags and struggles in noisy spaces.

Besides these features, the AirPods Pro 2 still have a very comprehensive set of abilities. You can still use the older model as a hearing aid, and access standard AirPods features such as personalized spatial audio, adaptive audio, and more. If you don’t care about heart-rate tracking or live translation, you aren’t missing out on any killer features.

How do the AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro 2 connect?

Both the AirPods Pro 3 and Pro 2 use Bluetooth 5.3 with support for SBC and AAC codecs. In testing, I found the AAC stream on iOS to be stable and high quality, though Android performance remains hit-or-miss due to how Android handles AAC. Neither supports high-resolution codecs like LDAC or aptX, so you’re locked into Apple’s ecosystem for the best results.

The Pro 3 rely on the same H2 chip that powers the Pro 2, which handles audio processing and Adaptive EQ. However, the Pro 3 case adds Apple’s newer U2 chip, giving them more precise case tracking in the Find My app. That’s handy if you misplace your earbuds often, but otherwise, day-to-day connectivity feels nearly identical between the two models.

Is battery life better on the AirPods Pro 3 or AirPods Pro 2?

Battery life is a clear win for the Pro 3. In our standardized test, they lasted 8 hours and 42 minutes with ANC enabled, a massive jump from the Pro 2’s 5 hours and 43 minutes. This improvement makes the Pro 3 a stronger choice for frequent travelers or long workdays. Both cases offer plenty of extra charges, bringing total listening time comfortably past 24 hours.

Charging options are equally versatile across both generations. You can top them up via USB-C, MagSafe, Qi wireless charging, or even an Apple Watch puck. Fast charging is also identical: 5 minutes in the case nets about an hour of listening time. If longevity is a top priority, though, the Pro 3 are clearly the better bet.

Do the AirPods Pro 3 or AirPods Pro 2 block noise better?

The AirPods Pro 3 offer the best ANC performance we’ve ever tested in earbuds. Our lab results show they reduced external noise by 90%, a step above the Pro 2’s already strong 83% of reduction. In real-world use, the Pro 3 made subway commutes feel far more tolerable, while the Pro 2 occasionally let in midrange chatter. The improved fit of the Pro 3 also helps maximize their ANC potential.

Transparency mode also improves on the Pro 3, letting voices come through more naturally than the slightly processed-sounding mode on the Pro 2. That said, Adaptive Transparency on the Pro 2 remains impressive—it automatically lowers the volume of sudden loud sounds like sirens, something the Pro 3 inherits as well. Both are excellent here, but if you want the quietest experience possible, the Pro 3 are unmatched.

Do the AirPods Pro 3 sound better than the AirPods Pro 2?

Apple reworked the acoustic chamber on the Pro 3 for improved bass response and stereo performance. In hands-on testing, we find there is also a good illusion of 3D space. In particular, the spatial audio modes sound really good on the AirPods Pro 3. That said, the AirPods Pro 2 are still great performers, and the sound quality differences are not extremely stark.

The AirPods Pro 3 are still lacking a native custom equalizer to tweak the sound quality to your liking. Instead, just as with the AirPods Pro 2, there is an Adaptive EQ system that adjusts the sound of the earbuds depending on how well they fit in your ears.

Objective Measurements

Our frequency response measurements show that the AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro 2 both match up well with our industry-validated SoundGuys Headphone Preference Curve. The AirPods Pro 2 have slightly more bass, but this depends on whether or not the Adaptive EQ kicks in. More notably, the AirPods Pro 3 have more treble extension than the prior generation. Older listeners in particular will likely prefer the added boost around 10-14kHz.

Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS)

Do the AirPods Pro 3 or AirPods Pro 2 have a better microphone?

Microphone quality is improved with the AirPods Pro 3, making them better for taking calls and meetings. You can listen to our microphone samples below, and let us know which you think is better.

AirPods Pro 3 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

AirPods Pro 2 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

AirPods Pro 3 microphone demo (Street conditions):

AirPods Pro 2 microphone demo (Street conditions):

AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2: Price and availability

Both the AirPods Pro 3 and Pro 2 launched at $249, though with the Pro 3 now out, you can often find the Pro 2 discounted. Availability is wide for both, though the Pro 3 are Apple’s new flagship and will stay on shelves longer. If you’re looking to save money, the Pro 2 are a better value right now, especially since they still hold up well against most competitors.

Should you get the AirPods Pro 3 or AirPods Pro 2?

If you’re already invested in Apple’s ecosystem and want the absolute best earbuds the company makes, the AirPods Pro 3 are the easy pick. They improve ANC, extend battery life, and add ambitious features that future-proof them for years. Fitness enthusiasts and frequent travelers will especially appreciate them.

That said, the AirPods Pro 2 remain a fantastic buy. They’re more affordable, sound great, and still offer ANC and Spatial Audio that rival much of the competition. If you don’t need a heart rate sensor or Live Translation, the Pro 2 deliver excellent performance without the Pro 3’s higher demands on your wallet.

Would you buy the AirPods Pro 3 or the AirPods Pro 2? Let us know in the poll below.