As with all Apple products, the new AirPods 3 have gained a lot of attention. The new and improved version of Apple’s wireless earbuds have brought out differing opinions. Now that there are multiple AirPods models, you might be curious about AirPods 3 and their noise cancellation feature. Is it worth the upgrade?
Unlike other AirPods models, AirPods 3 do not have noise cancellation. However, Spatial Audio makes for a much-improved listening experience. For this reason, many people have upgraded from older models. AirPods 3 are worth the upgrade for the simplest Apple earbud experience.
Below, we’ll further discuss the quality of Apple AirPods 3 and how they stack up against other models. Keep reading to learn what you need to know!
Are Apple AirPods 3 Worth the Upgrade?
The first thing to note about the AirPods 3 is that they do not have noise cancellation features. At least, not the type of noise cancellation people would expect.
Apple AirPods 3 have Spatial Audio, which dramatically enhances the sound quality compared to the AirPods 2. However, they do not have Active Noise Cancellation, or ANC. While the audio is better than some AirPods models, the AirPods 3 do not guarantee outside noise prevention.
For those who are set on getting the best of the best when Apple releases new products, an upgrade to AirPods 3 is a good decision. Trade in your old AirPods or sell it to a friend so it can still be used by a new owner.
If you want higher quality than other, more basic Apple earbuds, the AirPods 3 are the way to go.
However, they do not beat out all models in every aspect.
What Makes the 3rd Generation AirPods so Special?
It is safe to assume that Apple will release a new product if it does not feature improvements over previous models.
The two key features of the Apple AirPods 3 are Spatial Audio and battery life. While other AirPods still offer good sound quality, they lack features that AirPods 3 have. Battery life is of the utmost importance regarding usefulness.
That is not to suggest that AirPods 3 are the clear winner compared to all other models, but they have their fair share of advantages.
Below, we’ll discuss two key features:
- Spatial audio
- Battery life
Keep reading to learn how the AirPods 3 beat out previous models.
Spatial Audio
Imagine sitting in a movie theater while you watch a streaming service on your iPhone. With the AirPods 3 Spatial Audio, this is about as close as you can get.
While the volume will not reflect that of a cinema, Spatial Audio executes surround sound.
This makes your earbuds turn music and other sounds into a three-dimensional experience.
Spatial Audio allows you to hear even the most minor changes and differences in the audio you are listening to. You can seemingly hear noises from all around you.
Spatial Audio is great for streaming videos and can improve music quality, but some users suggest that it might not always make music sound better.
Because of Spatial Audio, many assume that AirPods 3 have noise cancellation.
While Spatial Audio can block outside noise, it is not necessarily made to cancel noise.
Battery Life
Compared to the 2nd generation earbuds, AirPods 2, AirPods 3 offer a better battery life.
Apple’s AirPods 3 battery can last up to six hours, while AirPods 2’s maximum life is five hours.
In any case, a six-hour battery life is wonderful, especially for wireless earbuds.
However, the maximum battery life on a full charge will likely be reduced with Spatial Audio activated.
The AirPods 3 charging case can provide up to 30 hours of charge, meaning you can fully charge your AirPods five times before charging your case.
AirPods 3 Vs. Other AirPods
It can be beneficial to gauge the differences between AirPods 3 and other AirPods models.
The table below will compare different features included on AirPods 3 with other AirPods models.
Like the AirPods Pro, AirPods 3 have many great features, including sweat and water resistance.
This makes them useful for sports, exercise, and more.
Are the 3rd Generation AirPods Better than AirPods Pro?
Perhaps the biggest reason customers choose Apple’s AirPods Pro over the AirPods 3 is for the ANC that blocks outside noise.
However, ANC is aided by silicone ear tips.
Some people complain that these ear tips make it more difficult for AirPods to stay in the ears.
At the very least, AirPods Pro are less comfortable and more noticeable than AirPods 3.
If you want the highest sound quality, AirPods Pro are the better choice. For comfort and a cheaper but similar option, you may opt for AirPods 3.
Should I Choose Apple AirPods 3 Over Another Brand?
Questions regarding whether Apple AirPods truly are the best choice are simply a matter of personal preference.
When you weigh the quality of AirPods combined with the ease of connection with Apple devices, you might have your answer.
Still, others swear by various brands and may not be as easily persuaded.
Final Thoughts
Apple AirPods 3 are excellent earbuds, though they do not have Active Noise Cancellation to prevent outside noise.
Their Spatial Audio is their big draw, though AirPods Pro also have Spatial Audio and ANC.
AirPods 3 are worth the upgrade if you want better sound quality and more battery life than AirPods 2. However, AirPods Pro are equally as, if not more, popular.
