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


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