Apple’s highly anticipated AirPods Pro 3 have finally arrived, promising improvements in sound quality, active noise cancellation (ANC), and battery life over the AirPods Pro 2. While the new model brings subtle design tweaks and upgraded internals, many of the standout features like Live Translation, spatial audio, and Transparency mode remain the same as the previous generation.
Having tested both thoroughly since launch day, the differences really come down to audio richness, bass clarity, and how effective the noise cancellation is. Battery life has also been extended, offering eight hours of listening per charge compared to six on the Pro 2, with 10 hours available in Transparency mode. But with AirPods Pro 2 still widely available at discounted prices, the question becomes: is it worth paying more for the new model, or can you get better value with last year’s version?
Read More: Amazon to Shut Down All Fresh Grocery Stores in the UK
What’s New in AirPods Pro 3?
I’ve already written a detailed comparison of the specs between AirPods Pro 3 and Pro 2, so I won’t go through every detail here. Surprisingly, there aren’t that many differences. For instance, the Live Translation feature is now available on both.
The main improvements really come down to:
- Audio quality – richer, more expansive sound with better bass control
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) – noticeably more effective
- Battery life – 8 hours per charge (10 hours in Transparency mode, useful for Hearing Aid mode)
Feature-wise, the two generations are very similar, and the price is almost identical in the US ($249). In the UK, Apple even dropped the Pro 3 to £219 (down from £229), while in Australia, it rose slightly from AU$399 to AU$429.
Pricing and Availability: Is AirPods Pro 2 Still a Bargain?
Even though AirPods Pro 3 officially replace the Pro 2 in Apple’s store, there’s still plenty of Pro 2 stock at other retailers. Over the last couple of years, the Pro 2 has often seen huge discounts. For example, during Amazon Prime Day, prices fell as low as $149.
So while the new model is shiny and improved, are the upgrades worth $100 more?
How AirPods Pro 3 Feel and Sound
After using both models since launch day, here’s my take:
Sound Quality
- Richer audio – more detail and realism in instruments and voices
- Improved bass – deeper yet more controlled
- More expansive soundstage – excellent for movies and spatial audio
Noise Cancellation
- Extremely effective – almost total isolation from outside noise
- Office use caution – might block out colleagues trying to get your attention
Fit and Comfort
- New “foam-infused” eartips provide better ANC but feel firmer
- Apple added a smaller XXS size to accommodate different ears
- Some users find them uncomfortable compared to Pro 2
- Personally, I find the trade-off worth it for the improved ANC
Deciding Between AirPods Pro 2 and Pro 3
So what should you choose? It comes down to price, comfort, and value.
US Pricing Perspective
- AirPods Pro 2 have previously dropped to $149, making them an excellent bargain
- Currently, they are $199 on Amazon
- For me, paying $50 extra for Pro 3 is worth it for the better ANC and battery life
- If Pro 2 drops to $149 again, they might actually be the better value purchase
UK Pricing Perspective
- AirPods Pro 2 can be found for £179–£199, compared to Pro 3 at £219
- A £40 saving makes Pro 2 tempting
- If you’re sensitive to the firmer eartips, the Pro 2 could be the smarter buy
- Likely, the lowest UK price will be £159–£179, which is worth considering
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between AirPods Pro 3 and Pro 2?
AirPods Pro 3 offer richer audio, improved bass, more effective ANC, and longer battery life. Features like Live Translation, spatial audio, and Transparency mode remain largely the same.
Is the fit different on AirPods Pro 3?
Yes, the new foam-infused eartips are firmer, and Apple added a smaller XXS size. Some users may notice them more in the ear compared to Pro 2.
How much longer does AirPods Pro 3 battery last?
AirPods Pro 3 provide 8 hours of listening, versus 6 hours on Pro 2. Transparency mode extends this to 10 hours.
Are AirPods Pro 2 still worth buying?
Yes, especially at discounted prices. They still offer great sound, effective ANC, spatial audio, and almost all key features.
Should I buy AirPods Pro 3 or wait for Pro 2 discounts?
It depends on budget and priorities. If you value better ANC, richer sound, and longer battery, go Pro 3. If savings and comfort matter more, Pro 2 at a discount is a smart choice.
Conclusion
Both the AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Pro 2 remain excellent choices, but your decision comes down to value, comfort, and priorities. The Pro 3 delivers richer sound, more effective noise cancellation, and longer battery life, making them the better option if you want the latest and most refined experience.
However, the AirPods Pro 2 are still highly capable, especially at discounted prices. They offer great audio quality, strong ANC, spatial audio support, and key features that make them a solid alternative for budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer a softer in-ear fit.