Apple’s latest release, the AirPods Pro 3, is making waves with its bold claim of offering the best in-ear noise cancellation available on the market. This assertion is not without merit, as these earbuds have been lauded by experts and users alike for their superior Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) capabilities. Having tested hundreds of headphones, it’s clear that the AirPods Pro 3 set a new standard, even rivaling some of the leading over-ear models.
The announcement comes as Apple continues to innovate in the audio space, building on the success of its previous models. The AirPods Pro 3 are not just an upgrade in noise cancellation but also boast a range of new features and improvements in design and functionality.
Redesign and New Features
The AirPods Pro 3 have undergone a significant redesign from their predecessors. The new model features an improved fit, thanks to redesigned ear tips that extend deeper into the ear canal, providing a better seal and grip. This enhancement not only prevents the earbuds from falling out but also improves audio quality and passive noise isolation, making the ANC even more effective.
Apple has also introduced new fitness features, including a heart rate sensor, which is a significant addition for users who engage in physical activities. The water resistance rating has been upgraded to IP57, allowing the earbuds to withstand submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life has seen improvements, with the earbuds now offering up to eight hours of listening time with ANC activated, or ten hours in Hearing Aid mode. However, the charging case now holds less charge, reducing total listening time to 24 hours compared to the previous model’s 30 hours. This change may affect users who are away from power sources for extended periods, such as campers and long-haul travelers.
Performance and Audio Quality
In terms of audio quality, the AirPods Pro 3 excel with their noise-cancelling prowess. On a noisy tram filled with a school group, the earbuds effectively muted the cacophony, justifying their premium price tag. While the sound profile leans towards being bass-heavy, which may not suit all musical genres, it enhances depth and warmth for others like metal and dance music.
“The AirPods Pro 3 has the best noise cancelling I’ve heard in true wireless buds, and the best currently available under $500 in any format.”
Additionally, the built-in hearing test feature allows users to adjust the earbuds to compensate for any hearing loss, potentially serving as a stepping stone to full hearing aids for those in need.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The AirPods Pro 3’s microphone and Bluetooth connection performance vary depending on the device. When paired with an Apple device, the connection is robust, and the microphone quality is satisfactory. However, non-Apple devices may experience a drop in microphone clarity and lack some of the seamless connectivity features available to Apple users.
While the earbuds are not ideal for recording high-quality audio, they suffice for everyday communication and media consumption.
Pricing and Market Position
The AirPods Pro 3 are priced starting at $416.67 in Australia, positioning them as a premium option in the true wireless earbuds market. For Apple users, they offer unmatched features and integration, making them a compelling choice.
Conclusion: A Must-Have for Apple Users
The AirPods Pro 3 are a standout product for those within the Apple ecosystem, offering unparalleled noise cancellation and a suite of features that enhance the user experience. However, Android and Windows users may find the limited compatibility a drawback, as many features are exclusive to Apple devices.
For those invested in Apple products, these earbuds are a worthwhile investment, catering to a wide range of uses from fitness to leisure.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What features do the Apple AirPods Pro 3 have? New heart rate sensing, redesigned fit, and improved noise cancellation.
- What is the battery life like? Up to eight hours with ANC, or ten hours in Hearing Aid mode.
- What sizing options are available? Five sizes of ear tips for a personalized fit.
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