Apple’s release of the AirPods Pro 3 last month was met with widespread acclaim, with many hailing them as a significant advancement in wireless audio technology. Having used the AirPods Pro 3 since their launch, my experience has been a blend of impressive enhancements and unexpected challenges.
Enhanced Audio Quality and Active Noise Cancellation
One of the most notable improvements in the AirPods Pro 3 is the superior audio quality. The sound is richer, with a broader dynamic range that brings out the nuances in various music genres. Whether it’s the deep bass in electronic tracks or the subtle strings in classical pieces, the AirPods Pro 3 deliver a listening experience that is both immersive and satisfying.
The active noise cancellation (ANC) feature has also seen significant upgrades. In environments with substantial background noise, such as bustling city streets or crowded cafes, the ANC effectively minimizes external sounds, allowing for an undisturbed listening session. This enhancement is particularly beneficial for those who use their AirPods in diverse settings.
Design and Fit: A Personal Perspective
Apple introduced a new design with the AirPods Pro 3, aiming to provide a more secure and comfortable fit. While this design may suit many users, my personal experience has been less favorable. Despite experimenting with all available ear tip sizes, I found the fit to be less comfortable compared to the previous model.
The ‘Medium’ ear tips were the only ones that passed Apple’s acoustic seal test without causing discomfort. The ‘Large’ tips, although providing a good seal, resulted in ear pain, while the smaller sizes failed to achieve the necessary seal for optimal sound quality and noise cancellation. This situation presents a dilemma: prioritize comfort and compromise on noise cancellation, or endure mild discomfort for the sake of audio performance.
Battery Life: A Mixed Bag
The AirPods Pro 3 boast an extended battery life, offering up to 8 hours of listening time on a single charge, an improvement from the 6 hours provided by the AirPods Pro 2. However, the charging case’s overall battery capacity has been reduced, delivering a total of 24 hours of listening time compared to the previous 30 hours.
This change means that while individual listening sessions can be longer without recharging, the frequency of charging the case itself has increased. For users who rely heavily on their AirPods throughout the day, this could be a notable inconvenience.
Additional Features and Considerations
Beyond audio quality and battery life, the AirPods Pro 3 introduce several new features:
– Heart Rate Monitoring: Integrated sensors allow for real-time heart rate tracking, providing valuable data for fitness enthusiasts.
– Live Translation: A groundbreaking feature that offers real-time translation of foreign languages, enhancing communication during travel or multilingual interactions.
– Improved Water Resistance: With an IPX4 rating, the AirPods Pro 3 are better equipped to handle sweat and splashes, making them more suitable for workouts and outdoor activities.
However, it’s worth noting that some features, such as live translation, are exclusive to the latest iPhone models, which may limit accessibility for users with older devices.
Conclusion
The AirPods Pro 3 represent a significant step forward in Apple’s wireless audio lineup, offering enhanced sound quality, improved noise cancellation, and innovative features like heart rate monitoring and live translation. However, individual experiences with fit and the reduced charging case capacity may present challenges for some users. As with any personal audio device, comfort and usability are subjective, and potential buyers should consider these factors in relation to their specific needs and preferences.
