AirPods 2 vs. AirPods 3

The second-generation and third-generation AirPods have substantially different designs, yet both have a comparable fit and a glossy white plastic finish. The design of the second-generation AirPods is similar to that of Apple's wired EarPods, featuring lengthy stems that protrude from the ear. 

While neither set of AirPods includes the in-ear silicone tips of the AirPods Pro, the design of the third-generation AirPods is quite similar to Apple's high-end earphones. This means they have significantly shorter stems and a bigger in-ear section, which may result in a more comfortable fit for some users. The charging case for the third-generation AirPods is likewise shorter and broader.

The general appearance of the third-generation AirPods is considerably more discreet and sophisticated, but which style and fit you like is ultimately up to you.

Similarities

  • Motion-detecting accelerometers
  • Speech-detecting accelerometers
  • Dual beamforming microphones
  • H1 chip
  • Bluetooth 5.0
  • Hey Siri
  • Automatic device switching
  • Live Listen audio
  • Headphone levels
  • Personalized engraving option

Differences

airpods 3
Second-Generation AirPods
 Third-Generation AirPods
  • Dual optical sensors
  • Double-tap to play, skip forward, or answer a phone call
  • Charging Case
  • Up to five hours of listening time with a single charge
  • More than 24 hours of listening time with charging case
  • 15 minutes in the case provides up to three hours listening time
  • Custom high-excursion Apple driver
  • Custom high dynamic range amplifier
  • Inward-facing microphone
  • Skin-detect sensors
  • Force sensor
  • Press once to play, pause, or answer a phone call, press twice to skip forward, press three times to skip back, and press and hold for ‌Siri‌
  • Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
  • Adaptive EQ
  • IPX4 Sweat and water resistance
  • ‌MagSafe‌ Charging Case with Qi wireless charging
  • Up to six hours of listening time with a single charge (up to five hours with spatial audio)
  • Up to 30 hours of listening time with charging case
  • Five minutes in the case provides around one hour of listening time
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