Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case vs Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case
Verdict: The AirPods Pro 3rd generation edge out the 2nd gen with 2 dB stronger ANC, 4 hrs longer case battery life, and personalized spatial audio, justifying its $299 price (RTINGS, Apple, MKBHD). However, the 2nd‑gen model still offers excellent performance and saves $50, making it a strong value for users who don’t need the latest ANC improvements. Overall, the Pro 3 is the superior choice for audiophiles, while the Pro 2 remains a solid budget‑friendly alternative.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case lists at $249 while Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case lists at $299 — Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case undercuts Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case by $50 (20%).
Winner: Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case: 7.5/10
Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case: 8.5/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
| Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case | Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case | |
|---|---|---|
| Battery life (listening) | 6 hrs (per Apple) | 6.5 hrs (per Apple) |
| Charging case total battery | 30 hrs (per Apple) | 34 hrs (per Apple) |
| IP rating | IPX4 (per Apple) | IPX4 (per Apple) |
| Weight | 5.3 g per earbud (per Apple) | 5.1 g per earbud (per Apple) |
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case
What works
- Excellent active noise cancellation (per RTINGS)
- Seamless integration with iOS devices (per Apple)
- Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking (per Apple)
What doesn't
- Higher price than standard AirPods (per Consumer Reports)
- No over‑ear design for maximum isolation (per Wirecutter)
Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case
What works
- Improved ANC with larger drivers (per RTINGS)
- Longer battery life and faster charging (per Apple)
- Enhanced spatial audio with personalized head tracking (per Apple)
What doesn't
- Premium price premium over previous gen (per Consumer Reports)
- Slightly smaller fit may be uncomfortable for some ear shapes (per MKBHD)
Bottom line
Our pick: Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) with USB‑C Charging Case.
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