What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Apple’s third-generation AirPods are a better match for listeners who prefer earbuds that do not seal the ear canal than for anyone seeking noise isolation. Their open fit, small case, and Apple-specific features are appealing, but fit is personal—and the design leaves outside sound largely unblocked. Apple introduced the model in 2021; its listed battery life and water resistance are manufacturer estimates and ratings, not guarantees of everyday results.
What the AirPods 3 review evidence says
SoundGuys gave AirPods 3 an overall 6.4/10 in a review marked November 2022. Its category ratings were 3.9 for comfort and fit, 9.5 for portability, and 0.6 for isolation. Those numbers reflect that publication’s scoring rubric, not laboratory measurements or a prediction of how every listener will experience the earbuds. Its review highlights fit, isolation, and features limited to Apple devices as drawbacks, while describing improvements over the 2019 model in design, water resistance, case, and software features. SoundGuys’ AirPods 3 review
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
How the open fit affects comfort and sound
AirPods 3 use a hard-shell, open-fit design rather than silicone tips that seal the ear canal. That can suit people who dislike the pressure or plugged-ear feeling of sealed earbuds, but it also means the fit depends on how each ear holds the earbuds. Apple described the design at launch as lightweight and contoured, claiming it sits at an angle intended to be comfortable and direct audio into the ear; that is Apple’s product description, not independent proof that the fit works for everyone. Apple’s October 2021 launch announcement
The open fit provides little passive isolation, and AirPods 3 do not have active noise cancellation. In a quiet room, that may matter less; on a commute, in a busy office, or around machinery, ambient noise can compete with music and calls. If blocking noise is a priority, choose a model designed to seal the ear or provide noise cancellation rather than expecting these AirPods to create a quiet listening environment.
#1 Best Overall
- REBUILT FOR COMFORT — AirPods 4 have been redesigned for exceptional all-day comfort and greater stability. With a refined contour, shorter stem, and quick-press controls for music or calls.
- PERSONALIZED SPATIAL AUDIO — Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking places sound all around you, creating a theater-like listening experience for music, TV shows, movies, games, and more.*
- IMPROVED SOUND AND CALL QUALITY — AirPods 4 feature the Apple-designed H2 chip. Voice Isolation improves the quality of phone calls in loud conditions. Using advanced computational audio, it reduces background noise while isolating and clarifying the sound of your voice for whomever you’re speaking to.*
- MAGICAL EXPERIENCE — Just say “Siri” or “Hey Siri” to play a song, make a call, or check your schedule.* And with Siri Interactions, now you can respond to Siri by simply nodding your head yes or shaking your head no.* Pair AirPods 4 by simply placing them near your device and tapping Connect on your screen.* Easily share a song or show between two sets of AirPods.* An optical in-ear sensor knows to play audio only when you’re wearing AirPods and pauses when you take them off. And you can track down your AirPods and Charging Case with the Find My app.*
- LONG BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge. And get up to 30 hours of total listening time using the case.*
Features and compatibility
Apple lists the H1 headphone chip, Bluetooth 5.0, a custom high-excursion driver, a high dynamic range amplifier, and Adaptive EQ. The earbuds also support Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. Spatial Audio depends on compatible hardware, software, content, and supported apps, and Apple notes that not all content is available in Dolby Atmos. Apple AirPods 3 technical specifications
Apple’s listed controls include pressing once to play or pause audio or answer a call, twice to end a call, three times to skip back, and pressing and holding for Siri. The specification page also lists “Hey Siri,” Live Listen audio, headphone levels, and Headphone Accommodations. Availability of particular features depends on supported Apple devices and software.
Rank #2
- WORLD’S BEST IN-EAR ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION - Removes up to 2x more unwanted noise than AirPods Pro 2* so you can stay fully immersed in the moment.*
- BREAKTHROUGH AUDIO PERFORMANCE - Experience breathtaking, three-dimensional audio with AirPods Pro 3. A new acoustic architecture delivers transformed bass, detailed clarity so you can hear every instrument, and stunningly vivid vocals.
- HEART RATE SENSING - Built-in heart rate sensing lets you track your heart rate and calories burned for up to 50 different workout types.* With iPhone, you will have access to the Move ring, step count, and the new Workout Buddy,* powered by Apple Intelligence.*
- LIVE TRANSLATION - Communicate across language barriers using Live Translation,* enabled by Apple Intelligence.*
- EXTENDED BATTERY LIFE - Get up to 8 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation on a single charge. Or up to 10 hours in Transparency using the Hearing Aid feature.*
AirPods 3 can work as Bluetooth headphones with non-Apple devices, including Android phones, but Apple says functionality is limited. Basic audio playback is possible; do not assume Apple-specific features and controls will be available in the same way. Their strongest feature set is tied to compatible Apple hardware and software.
Battery life, charging, and water resistance
Apple estimates up to six hours of listening on one charge, or up to five hours with Personalized Spatial Audio enabled, and up to 30 hours of listening with either charging case. Apple also estimates about one hour of listening after five minutes in the case. These are maximum manufacturer estimates; actual battery life varies with settings, environment, usage, and other factors. The technical specifications list two case versions:
Rank #3
- REBUILT FOR COMFORT — AirPods 4 have been redesigned for exceptional all-day comfort and greater stability. With a refined contour, shorter stem, and quick-press controls for music or calls.
- ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation help reduce outside noise before it reaches your ears, so you can immerse yourself in what you’re listening to.*
- HEAR THE WORLD AROUND YOU — The powerful H2 chip comes to AirPods 4. Adaptive Audio seamlessly blends ANC and Transparency mode — which lets you comfortably hear and interact with the world around you exactly as it sounds — to provide the best listening experience in any environment.* And when you’re speaking with someone nearby, Conversation Awareness automatically lowers the volume of what’s playing.*
- IMPROVED SOUND AND CALL QUALITY — Voice Isolation improves the quality of calls in loud conditions. Using advanced computational audio, it reduces background noise while isolating and clarifying the sound of your voice for whomever you’re speaking to.*
- MAGICAL EXPERIENCE — Just say “Siri” or “Hey Siri” to play a song, make a call, or check your schedule.* And with Siri Interactions, now you can respond to Siri by simply nodding your head yes or shaking your head no.* Pair AirPods 4 by simply placing them near your device and tapping Connect on your screen.* Easily share a song or show between two sets of AirPods.* An optical in-ear sensor knows to play audio only when you’re wearing AirPods and pauses when you take them off. And you can track down your AirPods and Charging Case with the Find My app.*
| Case version | Charging options |
|---|---|
| Lightning Charging Case | Lightning connector |
| MagSafe Charging Case | MagSafe or Qi-certified wireless charger, or Lightning connector |
Apple rates both the earbuds and cases IPX4 for sweat and water resistance. The company says this protection is intended for non-water sports and exercise, is not permanent, and does not make the product suitable for swimming. An IPX4 rating should not be treated as waterproofing.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which version and price should you consider?
Apple announced AirPods 3 at a US launch price of $179 on October 18, 2021; that is a historical launch price, not a current price. Apple’s comparison page continues to show Lightning and MagSafe case variants alongside newer AirPods generations, but a specification or comparison listing does not establish that a particular version is currently sold by a retailer. Check the live listing, case version, seller, and item condition before buying. Apple’s AirPods model comparison
Rank #4
- For iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac
- Dolby Atmos Support for Immersive Audio
- IPX4 Sweat & Water Resistance
- Spatial Audio with Dynamic Head Tracking
- Adaptive EQ Adjust Music in Real-Time
If comparing AirPods 3 with another pair, focus on the differences that change daily use: open versus sealed fit, passive isolation or active noise cancellation, estimated single-charge and case battery life, case connector and wireless charging, device compatibility, and the current price. The older model’s value depends heavily on whether its open fit and Apple ecosystem features outweigh the isolation and fit concerns for you.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- WORLD’S BEST IN-EAR ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — Removes up to 2x more unwanted noise than AirPods Pro 2* so you can stay fully immersed in the moment.*
- BREAKTHROUGH AUDIO PERFORMANCE — Experience breathtaking, three-dimensional audio with AirPods Pro 3. A new acoustic architecture delivers transformed bass, detailed clarity so you can hear every instrument, and stunningly vivid vocals.
- HEART RATE SENSING — Built-in heart rate sensing lets you track your heart rate and calories burned for up to 50 different workout types.* With iPhone, you will have access to the Move ring, step count, and the new Workout Buddy,* powered by Apple Intelligence.*
- LIVE TRANSLATION — Communicate across language barriers using Live Translation,* enabled by Apple Intelligence.*
- EXTENDED BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 8 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation on a single charge. Or up to 10 hours in Transparency using the Hearing Aid feature.*
Who should buy AirPods 3?
- Consider them if you prefer open-fit earbuds, mainly use compatible Apple devices, and want a compact case with spatial-audio features.
- Look elsewhere if you need noise cancellation, substantial isolation for travel or noisy spaces, or a fit that stays secure and comfortable in your ears without trying them first.
- Check carefully if buying a non-current listing: confirm whether it includes the Lightning or MagSafe case and verify the seller and condition.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
