AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2: Should you upgrade in 2025?

AirPods Pro 3 vs Pro 2 compared

✨On paper and in early testing, the Pro 3 takes a real step forward in comfort and sound. Apple claims up to twice the noise reduction of the Pro 2, plus a redesigned tip system and a built-in heart rate sensor. If you train, travel, or work in noisy places, these gains will be noticeable. If you mainly listen at your desk and love a good deal, the Pro 2 still makes a lot of sense, especially if you buy refurbished.

Why you can trust this comparison 

We get that it can be hard to trust these comparisons, especially when it comes to new tech, but we’re on your side. Our comparison between the Apple AirPods Pro 3 and the AirPods Pro 2 is based on our own knowledge and insights, as well as information gleaned from Apple's keynote, Newsroom press materials, and hands-on reviews from independent sources.

And when we say our own knowledge, we mean the countless hours our verified tech professionals have spent testing, cleaning, repairing, and refurbishing AirPods Pro 2s alongside other tech. We’re also well-versed in the new AirPods Pro 3 model and know enough about it to provide a professional analysis of its biggest draws and downsides, especially when compared to the Pro 2, so we can give you insights others cannot.

The short and sweet of it when it comes to the AirPods Pro 3 and Pro 2

According to Apple, the AirPods Pro 3s are the best in-ear wireless headphones. The company boasts that the Pro 3s represent a significant upgrade over the Pro 2s, featuring the world’s best active noise cancellation (ANC) technology and sound quality.

In fact, John Ternus, Apple’s SVP of Hardware Engineering, confirms this with his statement:

“With AirPods Pro 3, the most popular headphones take a massive leap forward… the world’s best ANC of any in-ear wireless headphones.”

We know it's a bold claim to state that their tech is better than anyone else's when it comes to earphones, but it may be true, depending on how you use them.

However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that the Pro 2s are obsolete and not worth considering when upgrading. For many listeners, the Pro 2s still cover the essentials, but at a (dare we say it) friendlier price.

Ultimately, choosing between the two comes down to your budget, fit, listening needs, and the level of noise in your environment that you’re trying to combat.

Product specs for the AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2

It can be challenging to understand the actual differences between models when comparing the latest generation technology with previous versions. That’s why, to make it easier to know the clear differences and similarities between the AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2, we’ve shared an overview of their specs below.

✨ Key takeaway: The AirPods Pro 2 remain reliable all-rounders with solid ANC and long case battery life, often offering great value when bought refurbished. On the other hand, the AirPods Pro 3 takethings further with stronger noise cancellation, a better fit, added durability, and built-in fitness tracking for users who want a smarter, more active-ready upgrade.

Fit design and acoustic isolation: Fewer adjustments and more comfort

Among the biggest changes between the AirPods Pro 3 and Pro 2 is the new geometric shape. Although the Pro 3s and Pro 2s look similar at a quick glance, they fit very differently in the ear. This is because the Pro 3s feature new foam-infused tips made of silicone, and the angle of the pods has been adjusted so the ear tips point more directly into your ear canals.

But that's not all. The Pro 3s also fit better because their design now includes five sizing options all the way down to XXS, which helps more users achieve a stable and comfortable fit in their ears. For most people, this is the reason they are making the switch to the Pro 3s, with one Redditor saying:

“Shoot. I would buy this for the fit alone.”

And do you know why this stability is a good thing besides improved comfort? We’ll tell you. It also improves passive isolation, which means ANC has less work to do, and music sounds fuller at lower volumes. But we’re still not done on this front. Apple has also taken it a step further with its Pro 3s by updating the in-ear test experience.

It’s believed that on the Pro 3's current software, you can quickly verify that your tips are creating the right acoustic conditions. For many people, this helps them avoid constant readjustments. If you struggle to keep Pro 2 steady during runs or long commutes, this is where Pro 3 is likely to feel more comfortable within the first hour of use.

✨ The Pro 3 focuses on comfort and passive isolation, allowing the hardware ANC to shine, especially for smaller ear sizes.

Noise cancellation and sound: Clearer in the loud moments

The AirPods Pro 3s have taken their game to the next level in terms of noise cancellation and sound quality. A Redditor said:

“Pro 2s were trying to appeal to the average listener, so they got a more attractive midrange. Pro 3s are actually clearer and the sound quality is overall better, but maybe less attractive to the average listener.”

We agree with this statement.

With claims of having the best in-ear ANC and removing up to twice the noise of the Pro 2s, the Pro 3s offer a superior choice for those who use their earbuds frequently and want an exceptional sound experience every time. However, the average user might not notice the improved active noise cancellation or clearer and more accurate sound with true bass.

Those who do notice will likely agree with early testing, which shows that the newer model offers vast improvements in high-frequency sounds when used in open offices, on trains, and on city streets. What these sound changes mean is that podcasts and calls are easier to follow, no matter where you are, and you don’t even need to raise the volume on your Pro 3s to overpower the loud sounds in your environment.

We don’t know about you, but these are winning arguments for the latest AirPods Pro having an edge in the sound category. Plus, even if you’re someone who only uses your earbuds to listen to music, you’llbenefit. The Pro 3's stronger isolation and tuned bass give more definition and help vocals sit forward in the mix, but they do seem to lean towards a V-shaped sound signature.

In addition, Spatial Audio and Adaptive Audio carry over, so you get the same platform features on the Pro 2 as you do on the Pro 3. However, the Pro 3's hardware changes give it an advantage, as these modes feel more consistent in noisier settings. The Pro 3s also offer Live Translation, so with a compatible iPhone, you can translate conversations on the fly.

The treble is also seemingly better, with a Redditor saying,

“I would say the biggest reason to get the Pro 3 is that the sound quality is better compared to the Pro 2. The treble in particular is noticeably more accurate.”

However, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that some are finding the Transparency mode less than stellar, even if they like the improved ANC. For example, a Redditor said:

“Regarding ANC, it’s better than APP2 in many situations, and may be slightly worse in others, but it’s hard to tell. Transparency has the voices equalised up, which sounds a bit artificial, but I think it might be for the better with the new tips.”

Another said,

“I just got mine today, and among other things, I used these in a meeting in transparency mode. It was very fatiguing; I could actually hear myself over-amplified and piercing, which was very distracting while talking. The APP2 sounds completely natural and actually ‘transparent’. I am immensely disappointed.”

So, keep this in mind.

✨ You will notice the difference in the Pro 3 most when the world is loud, not when your room is quiet, with its improved ANC, Spatial Audio, and Adaptive Audio settings.

Battery life and charging: Longer sessions vs longer trip

For some people, battery life, charging functionality, and capability are the most important factors when deciding between the AirPods Pro 3 and the AirPods Pro 2, with one Redditor even saying,

“The biggest reason for me to upgrade is to finally have USB-C.”

Besides now featuring USB-C charging (the older AirPods Pro 2s featured the original Lightning case, but the newer ones have USB-C), the latest AirPods Pro model also offers a change in battery life. The Pro 3 offers approximately eight hours of earbud listening time with ANC enabled, which is two hours longer than the Pro 2.

It might not seem like it, but those two hours are the difference between you making it through a full day of work on a single charge and having to charge up during your lunchtime or a meeting when you need them the most. For many, this is a quality-of-life upgrade for their tech that they will feel, especially those who spend most of their time listening in one continuous block.

However, and we hate to say it, the Pro 2 is still better than the Pro 3 when it comes to case charging capabilities. With the Pro 2, you can get up to 30 hours of use with the case, but with the Pro 3, you’ll only have up to 24 hours. So, if your day-to-day routine involves many short sessions with frequent case top-ups, the Pro 2 is likely to suit you better.

✨ You’ll want to pick the Pro 3 for longer stretches on the buds or the Pro 2 if you live out of the case.

Sensors and health: A world of firsts

An Apple first is the new heart rate monitor that comes equipped in its Pro 3 earbuds. For many, this is an added convenience, especially for those who prefer not to wear fitness watches.

A Redditor had this to say about the heart rate monitor feature:

“Another plus for me is the heart rate monitor. I don’t like smart watches, so I like the option of tracking my workouts with earbuds.”

This feature enables you to track real-time readings in Apple's Fitness app on your iPhone, compatible with running, cycling, and other everyday workouts.

Another breakthrough feature is the Pro 3's capability to offer scientifically validated hearing tests in the comfort of a user's own home. What’s more, the earbuds also offer clinical-grade support with Hearing Aid Mode for mild to moderate hearing loss, making hearing aids far more accessible and affordable to those who need them.

So, if you’re looking for heart rate monitoring and hearing support, the Pro 3s are hands-down the better choice compared to the Pro 2s, which don’t offer these progressive features. However, you should know that the Pro 2s do come with Conversation Boost and other accessibility features, which might be helpful depending on your needs.

✨ The Pro 3 is the first AirPods Pro model to track your heart rate from your ears, which is particularly handy for minimal setups, and they offer hearing support, which can be life-changing for many.

Durability and platform features: Built for rougher days

When you think of Apple products, you might not immediately associate them with durability or ruggedness in the traditional sense. Still, the brand has been stepping up its game in this arena lately. The Pro 3's durability is a testament to this, with these earbuds offering an IP57 rating for resistance.

This rating indicates that they provide stronger dust and water protection, particularly when compared to the Pro 2's IP54 rating. Apple itself says:

“AirPods Pro 3 are the first AirPods to have an IP57 rating for improved dust, sweat, and water resistance.”

In real life, this means you get more wear out of your headset for training in varied weather, and that your earbuds can keep up better with travel or even during yard work or outdoor activities.

✨ Durability is a clear win for the Pro 3.

AirPods Pro 3 vs Pro 2 side-by-side comparison

Having a look at a quick pros and cons list between the AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2 can help give you a brief overview of which might suit your needs best.

AirPods Pro 2 pros and cons

✨ The Pro 2 is the value pick for most people who do not need the newest sensors.

AirPods Pro 3 pros and cons

✨ The Pro 3 is built for commuters, travellers, and athletes who want the best fitness capabilities, better sound, and an improved in-ear fit.

Shopping tips: Make a smarter buy

Buying new earbuds can be somewhat of a challenge, especially when it comes to Apple products. That’s why we’ve shared a few of our best shopping tips that should help you make the right decision:

• Start with fit: Considering the new Pro 3 comes with five different sizing options, it is essential to ensure you buy the correct tip size, as it can significantly impact your listening experience. If finding the correct tip size isn’t a significant concern, you can consider buying the AirPods Pro 2 instead.

• Consider your battery needs: Finding the correct battery fit is essential, especially when comparing the Pro 2 and the Pro 3, considering they have different battery capabilities. This is important because you don't want to buy the Pro 3 if you want more extended charge case capabilities or the Pro 2 if you need longer in-ear listening.

• Determine your budget: Establishing your budget early on is essential, as it can help you decide whether to buy a refurbished set of AirPods Pro 2 or a brand new AirPods Pro 3 set. At Back Market, we offer affordable pricing on AirPods Pro 2s to fit most budgets, as you can choose a set based on this condition. Our trade-in program also helps cut costs.

Additionally, it's worth noting that Back Market offers refurbished AirPod Pro earbud sets at affordable prices year-round. So, if you buy from us, you don't have to wait for shopping holidays like Cyber Monday or Black Friday to benefit from a cost-effective price.

✨ Buy for how you actually listen and where you use them, not only for the newest label.

Why refurbished makes sense

There’s no two ways about it: buying refurbished puts premium earbuds within reach while lowering waste. The Back Market Promise to our customers, are that each device is carefully inspected, tested, cleaned, and replaced when needed, then we grade each unit, so you know exactly what you are getting. That means you can pick a condition that fits your budget and still enjoy strong ANC, solid battery life, and the same platform features.

And we might be biased at Back Market, but choosing refurbished also helps you avoid the early launch price for new Apple gear, which is helpful if you prioritise performance over bragging rights.

Additionally, there is the environmental aspect to consider. When you choose refurbished, you're extending the life of useful electronics, keeping them in circulation for longer and reducing the need for new devices to be produced.

When you pair all of this with a clear warranty and return window from Back Market, refurbished becomes a practical way to save money and support responsible tech habits without compromising quality or your desires.

✨ Refurbished AirPods Pro deliver the experience you want at a friendlier price while keeping good hardware in use.

Trade-in: Cut the cost of upgrading to Pro 3

Now we might get some flak for saying this, but oftentimes the easiest way to close the price gap and afford a new AirPods Pro 3 set or a refurbished AirPods Pro 2 is to trade in older gear.

At Back Market, we offer a trade-in program that is simple and straightforward. You send us your old tech, we offer you a quote, and then we give you credit to use towards whatever tech you want on our marketplace, whether it’s a refurbished set of earbuds or something else.

Price check: New vs refurbished Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2

Below is a quick look at new vs refurbished pricing when it comes to the Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2:

Final thoughts: Which one is worth it?

If you’ve read all the way to the end of this article, you know that while the Pro 3 is not a total reinvention, there are impressive upgrades that make it worth considering.

In our opinion, people who want better ANC and sound quality, a more stable and comfortable in-ear fit, heart rate monitoring in the buds, and a better listening experience in loud spaces will get their money’s worth.

However, if value and budget are your priorities, the Pro 2 still feels premium and can be a good choice. With the Pro 2, you’ll still get very good ANC and sound, a longer total case battery life, and you will often pay less, especially on Verified Refurbished units.

Either way, match the choice to your day, your ears, and your budget, and you will be happy with the result. And if neither seems like a good fit, there are many more options that aren’t Apple-specific. You can explore our other earbuds and headphones we have for sale, which are perfect for tech-savvy shoppers.