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AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2: Should You Upgrade?

Apple has unveiled the AirPods Pro 3, bringing meaningful improvements to one of its most popular audio products. But how do they compare to the AirPods Pro 2? If you already own the second generation, is the upgrade worth it? Let’s break it down.

Design & Fit

The Pro 3 has been refined with a smaller, slimmer body and five tip sizes, including a new XXS option. These foam-infused tips create a stronger seal, improving stability during workouts or long listening sessions.

The Pro 2 already offered excellent comfort with silicone tips, but the Pro 3’s redesign caters to a broader range of ears, especially for those who struggled with fit previously.

Noise Cancellation & Transparency

Apple claims the AirPods Pro 3 deliver up to twice the noise cancellation compared to the Pro 2. In practice, this means quieter flights, less city noise, and a more immersive soundstage.

Transparency mode remains excellent on both, letting you hear your environment naturally when you need to.

Health & Fitness Features

This is one of the standout upgrades. The Pro 3 introduces a built-in heart-rate sensor using infrared light to track workouts. With Apple Intelligence, the earbuds can recognize dozens of activity types and provide more detailed fitness data.

For those who already wear an Apple Watch, this might be less groundbreaking — but for anyone who trains without one, it’s a valuable addition.

Battery Life

Here’s where the story gets nuanced.

  • AirPods Pro 2: ~6 hours with ANC on, ~30 hours total with the case.

  • AirPods Pro 3: ~8 hours with ANC on, ~24 hours total with the case.

In other words, the earbuds themselves last longer in Pro 3, but the case provides fewer recharges overall. Frequent travelers may notice the difference.

Durability

The Pro 3 steps up to IP57 water and dust resistance. That means more confidence in the gym, outdoors, or humid environments. The Pro 2, at IP54, is still durable, but the new model is tougher.

Smart Features

Both models offer Spatial Audio, Adaptive EQ, and seamless integration with iOS. But the Pro 3 introduces Live Translation — enabling real-time language translation when paired with a compatible iPhone. This could be a game-changer for travelers.

The case has also been updated with the U2 chip for better precision in Find My, while still supporting MagSafe and USB-C charging.

Price

Apple has kept the AirPods Pro 3 at $249 USD, the same launch price as the Pro 2. With the new generation out, the Pro 2 is likely to see discounts, making it a strong value option.

Which One Should You Choose?

  • Upgrade to Pro 3 if… you value the best ANC, improved fit, fitness tracking, and rugged durability.

  • Stick with Pro 2 if… you’re satisfied with current noise cancellation, prefer silicone tips, or want longer case battery life.

Verdict

The AirPods Pro 3 are Apple’s most advanced earbuds yet. For fitness-focused users, frequent travelers, or those who struggled with fit, they are a clear upgrade. But if your Pro 2 still feels fresh and reliable, you can confidently keep them — especially with price drops making them an even smarter buy.

✅ At Luriax, we always recommend choosing tech that complements your lifestyle. Whether it’s a new iPhone case handcrafted in Alcantara® or the latest AirPods, investing in quality makes the difference.

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