Thinking of Buying AirPods Pro 3? Read This First!
Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 introduce health tracking and Live Translation, but surprising trade-offs mean the upgrade isn’t so clear-cut for Pro 2 owners.
Apple’s launch of the AirPods Pro 3 has sparked a familiar question for tech enthusiasts: is it time to upgrade? While the new earbuds introduce compelling features like real-time translation and a built-in heart rate monitor, a closer look reveals a more complex picture—especially for current AirPods Pro 2 owners. The decision isn’t as clear-cut as it might seem.
On the surface, the AirPods Pro 3 offer tempting advancements. However, they also come with surprising trade-offs, from reduced case battery capacity to the reuse of older technology. This article compares both models to help you determine if upgrading makes sense.
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Feature Face-Off: What’s Truly New?
Live Translation: Shared Innovation
One of the most exciting new software features is Live Translation. This tool allows for real-time conversations across different languages, with the AirPods translating a speaker’s words directly into your ear. For travelers and global professionals, this could be a game-changer.
However, Live Translation isn’t exclusive to the AirPods Pro 3. Apple has signaled that the feature will also be available on the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 (with ANC) via a software update. If this is your main reason for upgrading, you may not need to spend anything—just update your existing earbuds.
Heart Rate Monitoring: Nice, But Redundant for Some
A major hardware addition in the AirPods Pro 3 is the built-in heart rate sensor in each earbud. This allows users to track heart rate during workouts directly through their AirPods, with data syncing into the Fitness app.
For those who don’t own other Apple devices, this is a meaningful addition. But if you already use an Apple Watch, the benefit is less compelling since your wrist already provides continuous, more detailed heart tracking.
The H2 Chip: Same Foundation as Pro 2
The AirPods Pro 3 are powered by the same H2 chip that debuted in the AirPods Pro 2 (2022). While it’s still capable and efficient, its reuse means both generations will likely receive the same software updates for the foreseeable future.
This also implies that when Apple eventually retires H2 support, both models may reach the end of their software life cycle simultaneously. That’s worth considering if you’re paying a premium for what is fundamentally the same core hardware.
Performance and Practicality: The Daily Experience
Battery Life: A Trade-Off
AirPods Pro 2: 6 hours (ANC on) per charge, 30 hours total with case.
AirPods Pro 3: 8 hours (ANC on) per charge, but only 24 hours total with case.
While the Pro 3 give you two extra hours of continuous listening, the reduced case capacity means less overall endurance. For many, the total battery life matters more than per-charge longevity.
No Charging Cable Included
In line with Apple’s environmental push, the AirPods Pro 3 ship without a charging cable. While many users already have USB-C cables, first-time buyers or those needing an extra will need to purchase one separately.
The Verdict: Who Should Upgrade?
For AirPods Pro 1 Owners or New Buyers
If you’re still using first-gen AirPods Pro or buying your first premium earbuds, both the Pro 2 and Pro 3 are strong options. The Pro 3 bring longer per-charge playback, heart rate monitoring, and a refined design. But the Pro 2, now at a reduced price, remain a great value—especially with software features like Live Translation rolling out to them too.
For AirPods Pro 2 Owners
If you already own the Pro 2, the case for upgrading is weak. The standout software feature—Live Translation—will be available on your current earbuds. The heart rate sensor is redundant if you own an Apple Watch. And you’ll actually lose total case battery capacity while paying extra for hardware running the same H2 chip.
Unless you specifically need longer single-session playback or want the heart rate sensor for workouts, sticking with your Pro 2s is the smarter, more cost-effective choice.
Looking Ahead
Rumors suggest Apple may release a higher-end AirPods Pro model in 2026 featuring a new H3 chip and gesture-based controls. For current AirPods Pro 2 owners, waiting for that bigger leap could be the most rewarding move.
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Good analysis, and very useful - thank you. Weren’t there some claims in the announcement, though, about improved fit and better noise cancelling. If that’s true (Apple’s claims can certainly be exaggerated at times), then those details should be a part of the comparison, as well.