Ultimate Comparison: Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs AirPods Pro 2

Apple's AirPods Pro series set the benchmark for premium wireless earbuds. But now that the AirPods Pro 3 has arrived, Irish consumers buying at fone4u are wondering:

Do I upgrade from AirPods Pro 2, or do I leave well alone?

Below we break down all the upgrades — from the noise cancellation to battery life — so you can make the decision, and why.

1. Design & Comfort

While AirPods Pro 3 retains Apple's signature stem design, they've been nicely revised:

• Smaller Ear Tips: Pro 3 adds an XXS fit for those with smaller ear canal dimensions — tightening the seal, comfort, and sound.

• Case Design: The new case design includes a more solid MagSafe attach and a touch panel for streamlined pairing.

• Fit: Better fit equates to fewer mid-run/walk adjustments.

For Irish commuters and gym users as well, these subtle modifications are a game-changer.

2. Sound Quality & Noise Cancellation

Apple touts AirPods Pro 3 with twice the noise-cancelling power of Pro 2. This means:

• Quieter commute journeys on Dublin's Luas or DART

• Fewer background office noises

• Sharper focus on your podcasts, playlists or calls

In addition, the new adaptive transparency mode allows you to listen more naturally to surroundings around you — good for urban walking or short conversation.

3. New Health & Smart Features

One of the biggest bits of news is health integration:

• Heart-Rate Sensor: Pro 3 can track your heart rate in real time — perfect for fitness without an Apple Watch.

• Live Translation: Apple Intelligence powers live translations directly in your ears. Great for travellers or multilingual corporate professionals.

• Enhanced Spatial Audio: More immersive sound for Apple TV+ and gaming on your iPhone or iPad.

All these features more than future-proof the Pro 3 into something far beyond earbuds.

4. Battery Life & Charging

Battery life has taken a healthy leap forward:

• AirPods Pro 2: ~6 hours listening with ANC on

• AirPods Pro 3: ~8 hours of listening with ANC enabled; up to 10 hours in transparency mode

Both include a MagSafe case, but the Pro 3 charges quicker and has more overall power — perfect for busy days out.

5. Durability: Water & Dust Resistance

Irish weather can be a bit dubious — so it's great that both models have some durability.

• AirPods Pro 2: IP54 rated (splash & dust resistant)

• AirPods Pro 3: IP57 rated (even better dust & water protection)

Whether you’re running in light rain or at the gym, Pro 3 is simply more rugged.

6. Availability and Ireland

The Apple AirPods Pro 3 launched at the same price the Pro 2 debuted at—around €199.99 in Ireland. However, with the arrival of Pro 3, you’ll likely find AirPods Pro 2 discounted at Fone4U.

Our recommendation: If cost is an issue and you don't need the new health features, Pro 2 is still a great choice.

7. Which AirPods Are Right for You?

Upgrade to AirPods Pro 3 if you:

• Travel frequently or work in noisy areas

• Care about heart-rate monitoring or Live Translation

• Want the best ANC and battery that Apple provides

• Desire improved water/dust resistance

Keep the AirPods Pro 2 if you:

• Listen mainly in quiet spaces

• Already adore their ANC and don't need extra features

• Get a good bargain on Pro 2

8. Final Verdict

Apple AirPods Pro 3 are the complete step up in noise cancellation, health tracking, and smarts. For Irish consumers who want the best true wireless earbuds out there, they're an easy recommendation.