Apple AirPods Pro 3 Review: A Mixed Bag of Innovation and Compromise
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 arrive as a important update to the popular noise-cancelling earbuds, introducing features like multi-device pairing – a capability exceeding traditional two-device connections - and enhanced health tracking. Though, this advancement comes with trade-offs, notably in comfort and sound profile.
Key Features & improvements
The AirPods Pro 3 boast best-in-class active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes, alongside a complete suite of hearing health and accessibility features. Microphone quality remains excellent, and a new addition is workout tracking, including heart rate monitoring. seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem continues to be a defining strength, setting them apart from competitors.
A notable betterment is the introduction of multi-device pairing, allowing connection to more than two devices simultaneously.
Battery Life: A Step Forward,A Step Back
Apple claims the AirPods Pro 3 offer 8 hours of continuous listening with ANC enabled,an increase from the 6 hours offered by the AirPods Pro 2. However, the charging case’s battery capacity has been reduced, resulting in a total playback time of 24 hours, down from the previous generation’s 30 hours. This translates to three full charges from the case,compared to five with the AirPods Pro 2.
Testing continuous playback with ANC is challenging due to the earbuds’ requirement for skin contact to activate the noise cancellation.Apple does not provide ANC-off battery life figures, hindering standardized testing.An unscientific, real-world test yielded approximately 24.5 hours of total playback time (earbuds and case combined), slightly exceeding Apple’s stated claim.
While the extended continuous playback time is beneficial for long journeys, the reduced overall battery life necessitates more frequent charging of the case. Wireless charging is an option, but irrespective of the method, the case battery will experience more wear and tear compared to the AirPods Pro 2.
Comfort and Sound: Areas of Concern
Despite the technological advancements, the AirPods Pro 3 face criticism in the areas of comfort and sound quality. Apple prioritized noise cancellation in the design,utilizing new foam insert tips that some users may find less comfortable. Furthermore, the new audio tuning has been described as ”harsh, boorish, and unbecoming of a product of this pedigree.”
The review emphasizes that comfort and sound quality are paramount in headphone design, and the AirPods Pro 3’s shortcomings in these areas are significant despite excelling in other features.
Conclusion
Priced at $250, the AirPods Pro 3 represent a highly accomplished pair of earbuds offering excellent value considering their feature set. Though, potential buyers are strongly advised to try the earbuds for an extended period before purchasing, to assess comfort and sound quality. If an hour of listening doesn’t result in discomfort or dissatisfaction, the AirPods Pro 3 could be a good fit - and engraving is recommended before finalizing the purchase.
