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Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)
Apple AirPods Pro 3 ($249) vs Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation) ($74) — side-by-side specs, weight, pros and cons to help you pick the right true wireless.
Spec-by-spec
| Spec | Apple AirPods Pro 3 | Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $249 | $74 |
| Weight | 55.1g | 56.4g |
| ANC | Adaptive Audio 2.0 | Active + Transparency |
| Battery | 7h / 35h case | 4.5h ANC, 24h with case |
| Chip | H2 | Apple H1 |
| Codec | AAC + Apple Lossless | — |
| Charging | MagSafe + USB-C | Lightning, wireless Qi |
| Fit | Silicone XS–L + XL | 3 silicone tip sizes |
| Weight | — | 56.4g (Apple published: 5.4g bud x2 + 45.6g case) |
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods Pro 3
- Adaptive Audio 2.0 class-leading
- Hearing health test + aid
- Apple Intelligence live translation
- 7h battery (up from 6h)
- MagSafe case unchanged
- AAC-only codec (no LDAC)
- Apple ecosystem best
- Premium price unchanged
Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation)
- First sealed-fit AirPods with real ANC
- Three tip sizes for an actual acoustic seal
- Wireless charging case standard, not an upsell
- Still handles calls and Transparency mode well
- No Adaptive Transparency or force-sensor stem swipe
- ANC trails every AirPods Pro that followed it
- Ear tips wear out and need replacing on a used pair
- No IP rating beyond basic sweat resistance
Apple AirPods Pro (1st generation) is the better value at $74. If weight matters most, Apple AirPods Pro 3 carries lighter at 55.1g. Both are part of our curated true wireless index — tap through to check current pricing.
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