Apple AirPods (3rd Generation): A Deep Dive into Design, Performance, and Value

The Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) are a significant advancement over their predecessors, offering a host of improvements in design, functionality, and sound quality. However, they still come with certain limitations, particularly when compared to the AirPods Pro.

Design and Build

The AirPods (3rd Gen) continue with the open-fit design of their predecessors, which has proven to be a popular choice among users. Despite some improvements in how they fit and some clever sensor tricks, some users still aren’t wild about their open earbud design[Source 0][Source 1]. The earbuds are lightweight, weighing just 0.15 ounces, which contributes to their sleek and understated presence[Source 1].

The AirPods (3rd Gen) come with a revamped, weather-resistant design. The stems on the newer AirPods are significantly shorter (1.21 inches vs. 1.59 inches) and better-sculpted for in-ear fit. Internally, the new model has a redesigned driver and a skin-detect sensor that uses light reflections to determine if they are currently in your ear[Source 1].

However, despite these improvements, the AirPods (3rd Gen) still take a one-size-fits-all approach to design. The lack of ear tips will leave many users unable to attain a secure fit, leading to comfort issues and a complete lack of isolation[Source 2].

Sound Quality and Connectivity

The AirPods (3rd Gen) offer notably better bass depth and are more rugged than their predecessor. They also come packed with useful features, including an H1 chip, adaptive EQ (iOS, Android, Windows), spatial audio with head tracking, and a MagSafe case with wireless charging[Source 2].

However, the sound quality of the AirPods (3rd Gen) is somewhat inconsistent due to the open design of the earbuds. This can result in an imbalanced stereo image[Source 1]. Also, the AirPods (3rd Gen) lack active noise cancellation, which can make them less suitable for use in noisy environments[Source 0].

The AirPods (3rd Gen) offer seamless integration with iOS devices, making them an easy recommendation for iPhone users. However, they are not optimized for Android users, who miss out on many of the extra features that set them apart from other true wireless earbuds on the market[Source 0].

Conclusion

The Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) are a worthy upgrade if you have the older AirPods, offering superior audio quality, full sensor controls, and even longer battery life. However, they are not the most high-spec earbuds at this price due to the lack of noise cancellation[Source 0].

While the AirPods (3rd Gen) have made a good product a lot better, they still come with a price increase. Therefore, it’s essential to consider if the extra cost is worth it based on your specific needs and preferences. For instance, if you’re an Android user, you might want to consider other brands like Samsung, OnePlus, Anker, or Amazon that offer comparable features at lower prices[Source 0].

In conclusion, the Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) are a significant improvement over their predecessors, offering better sound quality, longer battery life, and a sleek design. However, they do have some limitations, particularly in terms of comfort and noise cancellation. Whether they are the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.