The AirPods Pro 3 just launched with a handful of AI-powered features but here’s the thing: the sound quality, design, and core functionality remain identical to the previous generation. So instead of dropping $249 on the latest model for features you might never use, the smarter move is grabbing the AirPods Pro 2 for $169 on Amazon, down from their original $249 price. Apple is clearing inventory to make room for the pricier AirPods Pro 3, and this all-time low pricing won’t last once stock disappears.
Audio Technology That Fits To Your Lifestyle
The H2 chip is the brain behind everything these earbuds do: This Apple-designed processor handles active noise cancellation with twice the power of the previous generation, and analyzes external sound 48,000 times per second to eliminate unwanted noise. The result is a quiet bubble that makes commutes, flights and open offices tolerable. The adaptive transparency mode is equally impressive, and lets environmental sounds through while simultaneously reducing harsh noises like construction or traffic to comfortable levels.
Custom spatial audio produces an immersive three-dimensional soundstage that pans with the head. Head motion is detected by the earbuds’ internal gyroscopes and accelerometers and the positioning of audio is adjusted on the fly so that sounds emanate from precise areas. Viewing films or playing video games is more engaging with the perception that dialogue is fixed on the monitor and effects pan around the head. Custom sound profiles are also generated by the technology to specifically cater to the shape of the ears to optimize the delivery of audio to the individual anatomy.
The hearing aid feature is a game-changer that puts clinical-grade hearing assistance in consumer earbuds: After taking a quick hearing test through the accompanying app, the AirPods Pro 2 can amplify sounds in real-time based on your specific hearing profile. This FDA-cleared feature makes conversations clearer, TV dialogue more intelligible, and environmental sounds more accessible for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Battery life delivers six hours of listening time with active noise cancellation enabled and the USB-C charging case provides multiple recharges for over 30 hours total. The switch to USB-C means you can finally charge your earbuds with the same cable as your phone, laptop and tablet, and reduces the cable clutter in your bag. Fast charging adds an hour of listening time from just five minutes in the case, perfect for those moments when you grab your earbuds and realize they’re dead.
The fit system employs four different size silicone tips to make acoustic seals that enhance sound quality and noise canceling effectiveness. Poor fit equals poorer audio and substandard ANC performance, so proper tip size is important. The iOS app has a fit test to play tones and determine how well your ears are sealed and ensures you’ve made the proper selection. Earbuds themselves are IPX4 rated to be sweat and water resistant and ready for the gym without concern about damage by moisture.
For $169, you save $80 from the cost of the AirPods Pro 3 and receive virtually identical hardware and sound quality. With Apple clearing house on these as we speak, supplies won’t last.