I want to know the differences between the AirPods (3rd generation) and the AirPods Pro 2.
There is a price difference of over 10,000 yen between Apple’s top-tier model, the AirPods Pro 2, and the AirPods (3rd generation).
Therefore, there are differences in features and earphone design, and you need to choose according to your needs.
In this article, we compare and explain the sound quality, performance, fit, and usability of the AirPods (3rd generation) and the AirPods Pro 2 from various perspectives.
If I were the author, I would choose this one
If I were to purchase either the AirPods (3rd generation) or the AirPods Pro 2, I would choose the AirPods Pro 2.
Since I often use earphones while out and about or on the move, I prefer earphones with noise-canceling features to cut out surrounding noise.
The AirPods Pro 2 also include AirTag, allowing you to pinpoint the exact location if they get lost using GPS information.
However, depending on your needs, the AirPods (3rd generation) might be a better choice for some people, so I will explain the differences between them.
AirPods Pro 2
AirPods (3rd generation)
Comparison Table of AirPods (3rd Generation) and AirPods Pro 2
Comparing the specs of both, we can see several differences.
| Item | AirPods (3rd Generation) | AirPods Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | 2021/10/26 | 2022/9/28 |
| Reference Price | 27,800 yen | 39,800 yen |
| Earphone Type | In-ear | Canal |
| Noise Canceling | Not available | Available |
| Transparency Mode | Not available | Available |
| Chip | H1 | H2 |
| Charging Case | No speaker | With speaker |
| Weight | 4.28g per earbud | 46.47g with case |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
Who is it recommended for?
Based on the spec sheet and actual usage impressions, we have summarized who each pair of headphones is recommended for.
- Those who want to enjoy music while listening to ambient sounds
- Those who prefer open-feeling in-ear headphones
- Those who are not comfortable with canal-type earphones
- Those who want to keep the price down even a little
- Those who want earphones with noise-canceling features to cut out noise even in noisy environments
- Those looking for earphones with ambient sound pass-through features to pick up surrounding sounds
- Those seeking lightweight earphones with a comfortable fit
- Those who want earphones equipped with GPS for high-probability retrieval in case of loss
The difference between AirPods (3rd generation) and AirPods Pro 2?
There are three points to compare between the ‘AirPods (3rd generation)’ and the ‘AirPods Pro 2’.
We’ll explain them in detail, starting with the most significant differences.
The shape of the earphones is different
The main difference between ‘AirPods (3rd generation)’ and ‘AirPods Pro 2’ is that they have different earphone shapes.
AirPods (3rd generation)” is referred to as an in-ear type, with the earphones having a shape that does not have ear tips attached to the earphone tips.
- They are lightweight and comfortable to wear, so they can be used for extended periods without fatigue
- Due to their open design, there is a possibility of sound leakage when listening to music at high volumes
- Even for those who are not comfortable with canal-type earphones, they can be worn without discomfort
If you’re in a quiet environment or want to hear ambient sounds, “AirPods (3rd generation)” is recommended.
“AirPods Pro 2” is known as a canal-type earphone, with silicone ear tips attached to the earphone tips.
- High sound isolation and good fit make it less likely to fall out
- Enhances noise-canceling function
- Allows you to hear low-frequency sounds and fine music details
If you want to use it without worrying about surrounding noise while on the move or in a café, “AirPods Pro 2” is recommended
The difference in noise canceling and ambient sound pass-through features
AirPods (3rd generation) adopts an in-ear type shape, so it cannot incorporate noise-canceling functionality due to its structure.
Furthermore, due to its open design, there is no need to deliberately incorporate ambient sound pass-through functionality, so it is not implemented as a feature.
If you’re looking for earphones with noise-canceling and ambient sound pass-through features at a lower cost, you may need to consider other manufacturers.
The AirPods Pro 2 features both noise canceling and ambient sound pass-through functionalities.
Regarding its noise-canceling feature, it stands among the top in terms of noise isolation among earphones currently available, remarkably reducing ambient noise.
I conducted a noise-canceling test using the AirPods Pro 2. Please try it out to experience how much noise it can cut out, especially in noisy environments.
*Listening while wearing earphones or headphones is recommended.
Additionally, it is equipped with a feature to reduce ambient noise during calls.
Even in noisy environments, you can deliver your voice clearly to the person you’re talking to.
We are testing the microphone performance while streaming voices in a café setting, so feel free to check it out if you’re interested.
Regarding the ambient sound pass-through feature, it boasts the top performance among earphones currently available.
It allows you to naturally hear ambient sounds to the extent that you may forget you’re wearing earphones, enabling smooth conversations even while keeping the earphones on.
Earphones that can be used throughout the day
The difference in sound quality and spatial audio
In both ‘AirPods (3rd generation)’ and ‘AirPods Pro 2’, the shape of the earphones differs, which also affects the sound quality.
Both earphones have a flat sound profile, making it possible for extended listening without causing fatigue.
When comparing the sound quality of ‘AirPods (3rd generation)’ and ‘AirPods Pro 2’, I found that ‘AirPods Pro 2’ delivers a more powerful sound, especially in the bass range.
For energetic genres like rock, EDM, and dance music, I believe ‘AirPods Pro 2’ would be a better fit.
Additionally, the high resolution that allows you to hear each sound clearly is another appealing aspect of ‘AirPods Pro 2’.
Truly the top-tier model
About Spatial Audio
Spatial Audio allows you to enjoy immersive audio, and this feature is supported by both “AirPods (3rd generation)” and “AirPods Pro 2”.
With head tracking that also senses the direction of your head, you can experience live performances and movies with a full sense of presence.
Not limited to Apple content, it also supports video streaming services like YouTube, allowing you to experience Spatial Audio across a wide range of content, which is delightful.
Optimized for the shape of your ears
Compatible with Adaptive EQ, which adjusts the sound quality to fit the shape of the wearer’s ears.
This feature is available on both ‘AirPods (3rd generation)’ and ‘AirPods Pro 2’, automatically adjusting the bass and midrange frequencies.
Even if the shapes of the left and right ears differ from person to person, they can enjoy the same sound.
AirPods Pro 2
AirPods (3rd generation)
Frequently Asked Questions about AirPods (3rd generation) and AirPods Pro 2
We’re summarizing other differences between AirPods (3rd generation) and AirPods Pro 2.
What are the differences in size between the cases of AirPods (3rd generation) and AirPods Pro 2?
When comparing the sizes of the charging cases for AirPods (3rd generation) and AirPods Pro 2, there are slight differences, but overall, the sizes remain largely the same.
The earphones themselves are slightly larger for the ‘AirPods Pro 2’ due to the ear tips being attached.
The charging case and the earphones themselves are nearly the same in size
Are there differences in operability?
AirPods (3rd generation) and AirPods Pro 2 allow for control by squeezing the stem part (highlighted in red) of the earphones.
- Play/Pause: Single click
- Next track: Double click
- Previous track: Triple click
For AirPods Pro 2, you can switch modes by long-pressing and adjust the volume by swiping on the top.
It’s great that AirPods Pro 2 allows volume adjustment
Are there any differences in the find function?
AirPods (3rd generation) and AirPods Pro 2 have differences in their find function.
AirPods (3rd generation) comes with a find function, allowing you to play a sound from the earphones when they are misplaced, and even locate the last connected location on a map.
We’ve detailed how to find your lost AirPods in past articles, so feel free to check them out if you’re interested.
“AirPods Pro 2” is equipped with AirTag, so you can use GPS to pinpoint the exact location.
Even if you lose them inside your house, they can tell you the direction and distance, making it possible to find them quickly.
Additionally, you can make the earphones and the charging case emit sound, so even if they are separated and misplaced, you can locate them by sound.
Evolved to be less prone to loss
Are there differences in sound leakage?
There are differences in sound leakage between ‘AirPods (3rd generation)’ and ‘AirPods Pro 2’.
‘AirPods (3rd generation)’ is an open design, so sound leakage occurs when listening to music at high volumes.
Therefore, when listening to music in places with people around or in quiet environments, it’s necessary to keep the volume moderate.
In the case of ‘AirPods Pro 2’, they are canal-type earphones with high sound isolation, so there is hardly any sound leakage even when listening to music at high volumes.
If you’re concerned about sound leakage, we recommend ‘AirPods Pro 2’
Specs comparison table
| Item | AirPods (3rd Generation) | AirPods Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | 2021/10/26 | 2022/9/28 |
| Reference Price | 27,800 yen | 39,800 yen |
| Earphone Type | In-ear | Canal |
| Noise Canceling | Not available | Available |
| Transparency Mode | Not available | Available |
| Chip | H1 | H2 |
| Charging Case | No speaker | With speaker |
| Weight | 4.28g per earbud | 46.47g with case |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
Summary
In this article, we’ve explained the differences between ‘AirPods (3rd generation)’ and ‘AirPods Pro 2’.
We’ve also summarized which earphones are recommended for whom, so we hope you find it helpful.
- For those who want to enjoy music while listening to ambient sounds
- For those who prefer open-feeling in-ear headphones
- For those who dislike canal-type earphones
- For those who want to keep the price down
- For those who want earphones with noise-canceling capabilities to cut out noise even in noisy environments
- For those looking for earphones equipped with ambient sound pass-through functionality to pick up surrounding sounds
- For those seeking lightweight earphones with a comfortable fit
- For those who want earphones with GPS capabilities for high probability of finding them in case of loss
AirPods Pro 2
AirPods (3rd generation)
The author, who works at an electronics retail store in Japan, shares their passion for audio equipment.
Please forgive any awkward parts in the English translation.