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Head to head · 2 headphones

AirPods (1st generation) vs AirPods Pro 3

Verified specs side by side. The green tick marks the better value on each measurable row.

Comparing 2 headphones
AirPods (1st generation)
AirPods (1st generation)—Score pending
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AirPods Pro 3
AirPods Pro 39.3Excellent· Top score
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The short verdict

AirPods Pro 3 is scored, the other is pending

We haven’t scored the AirPods (1st generation) yet. Compare the measured differences and prices below.

AirPods (1st generation)
—
AirPods Pro 3
9.3
Choose the AirPods (1st generation) if
  • Collectors or emergency spares only
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Choose the AirPods Pro 3 if
  • iPhone owners who want the most seamless ANC earbuds experience.
Check price at Amazon →
At a glance

Key differences

Measured differences only. Ties and tiny gaps are left out.
Sound2 differences
Type
In-ear
True wireless earbuds
Wear style
In-ear
In-ear (silicone tips)
Battery5 differences
Battery life
5 mAh
Up to 8 hours (ANC on); up to 10 hours (Transparency with Hearing Aid)
Total with case
24 mAh
Up to 24 hours (ANC on)
Charging port
Lightning
USB-C
Quick charge
15W
5 min in case = ~1 hour
Charging case
Yes
Works with MagSafe charger · Apple Watch charger · Qi‑certified chargers
Controls & Software1 difference
Controls
Double-tap (Siri / playback)
Press + swipe touch control · Siri · head gestures
Comfort & Build2 differences
Weight
—
6 g
Dimensions
16.5 x 18.0 x 40.5 mm (each); case 44.3 x 21.3 x 53.5 mm
Earbud: 30.9 x 19.2 x 27.0 mm; Case: 47.2 x 62.2 x 21.8 mm
Charging Case1 difference
Case weight
38
43.99 g
Sensors1 difference
Sensors
Dual optical sensors · motion accelerometer · speech accelerometer
Dual beamforming microphones · Inward-facing microphone · Skin-detect sensor
Launch2 differences
Released
December 2016
2025-09-09
In the box
AirPods · Charging Case · Lightning to USB Cable
AirPods Pro 3 · MagSafe Charging Case (USB-C) · silicone ear tips (five sizes: XXS-L)
Performance1 difference
Chip
W1
H2 headphone
Where to buy

Specs verified against manufacturer data. Prices in USD before tax; we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

Community

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