In today’s airpod pro 3 review, Apple’s latest earbuds—officially unveiled on September 9, 2025—deliver a leap forward in performance, health tracking, and durability that sets them apart from all previous models.
Apple kept the same launch price of $249, but the feature set has expanded so much that these earbuds feel like a significant upgrade rather than a minor refresh. Shipping begins September 19, 2025, with preorders already live worldwide.
Table of Contents
Design and Build Quality
The AirPods Pro 3 introduce subtle design changes that enhance both comfort and usability. The stem is slightly shorter, and the buds themselves are lighter. Apple now includes five ear tip sizes, including a new XXS option, which makes them more suitable for a wider range of users.
Durability has also improved dramatically. With an IP57 rating, these are the first AirPods capable of withstanding dust, sweat, and immersion. Whether you’re in the gym or caught in the rain, the new Pro model is built to last.
Audio and Noise Cancellation
Apple’s promise of twice the Active Noise Cancellation compared to AirPods Pro 2 is not marketing fluff. The difference is instantly noticeable when using them in noisy environments like public transport or cafés. The new adaptive audio engine also improves bass depth, vocal clarity, and soundstage width.
Transparency mode has been refined too, blending outside voices more naturally with what you’re listening to. Conversations sound less robotic, making it easier to leave the earbuds in during quick interactions.
Health and Fitness Tracking
For the first time, AirPods now include a built-in heart-rate sensor. Using photoplethysmography, the earbuds can monitor your heart rate during workouts and sync data directly with the Fitness app. Apple has also introduced “Workout Buddy,” a feature that delivers live performance updates without requiring an Apple Watch.
Another standout addition is real-time translation. Powered by Apple Intelligence, AirPods Pro 3 can translate conversations on the fly, turning them into a surprisingly useful travel companion.
Hearing health has also been given attention. The updated Conversation Boost enhances speech for those in noisy spaces, while expanded hearing tests and automatic volume protection aim to prevent long-term damage.
Battery and Performance
Battery life has received a welcome bump. With ANC turned on, the earbuds now last up to eight hours on a single charge. Switch to Transparency mode, and you can push usage to around ten hours. The case provides a total of 24 hours of playback, and a five-minute quick charge delivers about an hour of listening—ideal when you’re in a rush.
The updated H3 chip also improves responsiveness when switching modes, connecting devices, or using Siri. Everything feels faster and smoother, with fewer drops or delays.
Why These Upgrades Matter
- Comfort: More ear tip sizes make the fit customizable for nearly everyone.
- Durability: The IP57 rating provides confidence in harsher conditions.
- Audio: Noise cancellation is stronger, while sound quality is clearer and more balanced.
- Fitness: Heart-rate tracking transforms AirPods into health accessories.
- Utility: Live translation gives them a role beyond entertainment.
- Longevity: Better battery life makes them reliable for travel and daily use.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | AirPods Pro 2 | AirPods Pro 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $249 | $249 |
| ANC Improvement | Baseline | 2× stronger |
| Ear Tip Sizes | 3 | 5 (new XXS included) |
| Durability | IP54 | IP57 |
| Battery (ANC on) | 6 hours | 8 hours |
| Battery (Transparency) | 6 hours | 10 hours |
| Heart-Rate Sensor | No | Yes |
| Live Translation | No | Yes |
With stronger noise cancellation, smarter health tracking, live translation, improved durability, and longer battery life—all at the same price—the third-generation AirPods Pro deliver meaningful upgrades across the board.
That’s the takeaway from this airpod pro 3 review: Apple has redefined what earbuds can do. What do you think—are these the perfect balance of music, health, and tech, or will you wait for the next step forward?
