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Apple’s third-generation AirPods Pro have split the audio community down the middle. Linus Sebastian says Apple “ruined his favorite product.” Others call them borderline unlistenable. Meanwhile, some reviewers praise them as the best earbuds ever made.
Who’s right? After analyzing hundreds of owner reviews and Reddit threads, here’s the unfiltered truth.
Our verdict: The AirPods Pro 3 deliver world-beating ANC and groundbreaking health features, but the V-shaped sound tuning and unresolved static issues make them a harder recommendation than their predecessors.
Our Pick: Apple AirPods Pro 3
Quick take: Best-in-class noise cancellation, FDA-approved hearing aid functionality, sleep apnea detection, and 10-hour battery life. But the new sound signature is polarizing and the static issue is real.
Best for:
- iPhone users wanting seamless ecosystem integration
- Anyone needing hearing aid functionality
- Frequent travelers prioritizing ANC
- Users who prefer bass-forward sound
Skip if:
- You prefer the Pro 2’s balanced sound signature
- Static/crackling sounds would drive you crazy
- You’re on Android (get Sony XM5 instead)
- Budget is tight (Pro 2 is often discounted)
What’s New in AirPods Pro 3
Health Features (The Real Story)
The Pro 3’s killer features aren’t about sound—they’re about health:
- FDA-approved hearing aid: Amplifies sounds for those with mild-to-moderate hearing loss
- Sleep apnea detection: Monitors breathing patterns overnight
- Hearing test: Clinical-grade audiogram right from your iPhone
These aren’t gimmicks. The hearing aid functionality alone could save users thousands versus traditional hearing aids.
Improved ANC & Transparency
The noise cancellation “leapfrogs the Pro 2 considerably.” SoundGuys called it “best-in-class,” with unprecedented clarity in transparency mode. You can have conversations without removing the earbuds.
Better Battery
10 hours of listening per charge (vs 6 on Pro 2). With the case, you’re looking at 36 total hours. This alone justifies the upgrade for heavy users.
The Controversial Sound Tuning
Here’s where things get divisive. Apple moved from the Pro 2’s “safe, natural tuning” to a “bold, V-shaped profile.”
What that means:
- More bass: Booming low end
- Brighter treble: Sizzling highs
- Recessed mids: Vocals take a back seat
Headphones.com didn’t hold back: “Sluggish and muddy in the lows, sharp and sibilant in the highs…an incoherent listen.”
But here’s the thing—many users love it. If you prefer punchy bass and sparkling highs (common in popular music), you might prefer the Pro 3. If you’re an audiophile who values accuracy, you might hate them.
The Static Issue Nobody’s Talking About
Since launch, users have reported static and crackling when ANC is enabled without music playing. Reddit’s r/AirPods is full of complaints:
“I’ve gone through multiple replacements. Same issue every time.”
Apple hasn’t officially acknowledged the problem. Some users report firmware updates helped; others say nothing works. This is a legitimate concern if quiet environments matter to you.
The Comfort Problem
The Pro 3 design protrudes more than the Pro 2, placing pressure on the upper ear. Tom’s Guide noted discomfort after an hour of use.
Reddit threads confirm: “After an hour or so, it becomes too uncomfortable to ignore.”
If you had fit issues with Pro 2, the Pro 3 likely won’t be better.
Who Should Buy AirPods Pro 3
Perfect for you if:
- You need the hearing aid or health features
- Maximum ANC is your priority
- You prefer bass-heavy sound signatures
- You’re deep in the Apple ecosystem
Buy the AirPods Pro 2 instead if:
- You prefer balanced, natural sound
- The static issue concerns you
- You want proven reliability
- Budget matters (Pro 2 is often $50-100 cheaper)
The Bottom Line
The AirPods Pro 3 are Apple’s most capable earbuds ever—but “most features” doesn’t mean “best for everyone.” The polarizing sound signature and unresolved static issues make the Pro 2 a safer choice for most users.
If you specifically need the health features or crave maximum ANC, the Pro 3 delivers. Everyone else should seriously consider the discounted Pro 2.
