AirPods Pro 3 Review: 3 Upgrades That Won Me Over
▼ Summary
– The AirPods Pro 3 feature a redesigned, more comfortable fit with new angled eartips and a wider range of sizes, including extra-extra small and extra large options.
– They are powered by the H2 chip with updated algorithms, delivering improved sound quality, better Adaptive EQ, and enhanced bass, mids, and highs.
– Active Noise Cancellation is more effective, offering up to 8 hours of battery life, while transparency mode provides natural sound without digital artifacts.
– New features include heart-rate tracking using an infrared sensor and Live Translation, which processes supported languages locally on the device for real-time use.
– The AirPods Pro 3 maintain the $249.99 price, add IP57-rated durability, and offer meaningful upgrades without removing any existing functionality from previous models.
Having spent considerable time with every iteration of Apple’s AirPods, from the originals to the Lightning-equipped Pro 2, the arrival of the AirPods Pro 3 brings a set of thoughtful refinements that elevate the experience without reinventing the wheel. These latest earbuds enter a competitive market, but Apple’s focus on comfort, health integration, and intelligent features makes a compelling case for both upgrades and new users.
One of the most immediate improvements is in the fit and design. Apple has subtly reshaped the earbuds, taking inspiration from the AirPods 4. Each pod is slightly smaller, and the eartip now sits at a more natural angle, making long listening sessions noticeably more comfortable. A new hybrid eartip material, combining foam and silicone, improves both seal and stability. The inclusion of five tip sizes, from extra-extra small to extra large, ensures a personalized fit for nearly any ear. Even during movement or light exercise, they stayed securely in place.
Internally, the H2 chip returns but with updated algorithms that enhance audio performance and processing efficiency. Listening to a dynamic track like Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” revealed powerful, accurate bass and crisp instrumentation. Maggie Rogers’ “Alaska” showcased excellent channel separation and immersive Spatial Audio. The overall sound signature feels richer and more detailed than before.
Active Noise Cancellation has been improved, effectively muting background chatter and ambient noise even at moderate volume levels. In a demo environment, it created a noticeably quieter listening experience. Transparency Mode also impressed, allowing external sounds and conversations to come through clearly without artificial harshness or digital distortion.
Two entirely new features stand out: heart-rate tracking and Live Translation. A discreet infrared sensor embedded in the earbuds measures heart rate without the green light used by many fitness trackers. During a walking test, the readings felt accurate and synced seamlessly with the iPhone’s workout app. If you’re also wearing an Apple Watch, the system intelligently selects the most reliable data source.
Live Translation, while not entirely new to the market, feels polished in Apple’s hands. When activated, the beamforming mics isolate a speaker’s voice, and translations are delivered through the earbuds. Processing happens on-device for privacy and speed. Though there’s a slight delay, the spoken translations sounded natural and conversational, with transcripts displayed on the iPhone screen.
Battery life sees a welcome boost, with Apple promising up to 8 hours with ANC enabled, a two-hour increase over the previous model. The charging case is slightly larger to accommodate the new internals, including an Ultra Wideband chip for improved tracking. Both the earbuds and case now carry an IP57 rating, offering better resistance to dust and water.
Priced at $249.99, the AirPods Pro 3 don’t represent a radical departure from their predecessor, but the cumulative effect of these upgrades makes them a meaningful step forward. Better comfort, enhanced sound, useful health features, and stronger durability all add value without a price increase. It’s worth noting that Live Translation will also come to AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 with ANC via a software update, but for those seeking the complete package, the third generation delivers a refined and compelling experience.
(Source: techradar)
