Apple AirPods Pro 3 Review – The Next Generation of Premium Earbuds
Introduction
Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 represent the latest leap in its premium earbud lineup. With improved noise cancellation, health-tracking features, live translation and a more refined fit, these earbuds bring substantial upgrades for users entrenched in the Apple ecosystem. But are they worth the upgrade from the previous generation? Let’s dig in.
Release Date & Price
The AirPods Pro 3 were officially announced by Apple on September 9, 2025 and became available for pre-order immediately, with shipping beginning September 19, 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} Pricing starts at US $249, matching the previous generation despite the new features. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Design & Fit
Externally, the design retains a familiar AirPods look, but Apple has refined the internals for a better fit. The ear tips are now foam-infused and offered in five sizes (including XXS) to achieve improved stability and sound isolation. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} The case remains USB-C with MagSafe support and adds IP57 water and sweat resistance – a first for the AirPods Pro line. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Audio, ANC & Performance
One of the headline features is improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Apple claims up to 2× better ANC than the AirPods Pro 2. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5} A new “multi-port acoustic architecture” and next-generation Adaptive EQ widen the soundstage, deepen bass and deliver clearer vocals. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6} The earbuds use Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and support spatial audio with dynamic head tracking. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Health & Smart Features
For the first time in the AirPods Pro line, built-in sensors support heart-rate tracking during workouts, paired with Apple’s “Workout Buddy” system in the Fitness app. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8} Another notable feature: live translation capability that lets you hold a conversation in another language and hear your part translated instantly. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Battery Life & Charging
Battery endurance is improved: up to 8 hours of listening time with ANC enabled, compared to previous models. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10} When paired with the MagSafe/USB-C charging case, total listening time reaches up to 24 hours. The case also supports fast top-ups: 5 minutes in the case gives around 1 hour of listening time. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation | Up to 2× vs AirPods Pro 2 (Apple claim) :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12} |
| Listening Time (w/ ANC) | Up to 8 hours :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13} |
| Total Listening Time (w/ Case) | Up to 24 hours :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14} |
| Sensors | Heart-rate sensor, motion & in-ear detection :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15} |
| Water/Sweat Resistance | IP57 (buds + case) :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16} |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17} |
| Price (US) | US $249 :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18} |
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Excellent noise cancellation and improved audio performance
- ✅ Built-in heart rate sensing + fitness integration
- ✅ Live translation and advanced smart features
- ✅ Upgraded fit and five ear tip sizes for greater comfort
- ❌ Price remains high (US $249) albeit same as previous generation
- ❌ Exclusively white at launch (color options limited) :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
- ❌ Some features (like translation) may be region-limited at launch :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
“With AirPods Pro 3, the most popular headphones take a massive leap forward… heart-rate sensing, extended battery life, and Live Translation.” — Apple senior VP said at unveiling. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
Should You Upgrade?
If you’re using an older pair of AirPods Pro (1st or early 2nd gen), or want the top-tier in-ear experience with advanced noise cancellation, fitness tracking and ecosystem integration, then the AirPods Pro 3 are a very strong option. However, if you already own the AirPods Pro 2 and are satisfied with their performance, the upgrade may feel more incremental unless you prioritise ANC, health sensors or translation features.
Conclusion
Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 deliver meaningful upgrades in fit, noise cancellation, health features and ecosystem integration without a price increase. For users committed to Apple’s platform and looking for a premium audio accessory this year, they are among the best options available.
