Investigate if Apple AirPods 3rd Generation are worth the price in this review!

Description

Fit & Comfort

I’ve been using the Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) Wireless Earbuds with MagSafe Charging Case daily for a few weeks now, and I have to say, the fit is surprisingly good. They feature an all-new contoured design that feels snug without being invasive. My ears didn’t feel sore even after wearing them for hours while working at my desk or running errands. However, my coworker with smaller ears did mention that the “one-size-fits-all” approach wasn’t ideal for her; they tended to slip out during workouts. That said, the lack of interchangeable ear tips—like those on the Pro model—might be a dealbreaker for some.

Design & Build Quality

The build quality screams Apple. These earbuds are sleek, minimalistic, and lightweight. The MagSafe Charging Case follows the same aesthetic, with its compact size making it super pocketable. I’ve accidentally dropped the case a couple of times, and it still looks brand-new—no cracks or scratches to report. The earbuds themselves weigh next to nothing, making them comfortable to wear for long periods. But, a small gripe? The glossy finish on the case is a magnet for fingerprints, which can be mildly annoying if you’re particular about keeping your tech pristine.

Sound Quality & Performance

As an audiophile, I was curious to see how these earbuds stack up. The spatial audio feature is a standout. With dynamic head tracking, it genuinely feels like the sound is all around you. I tested this out while watching an episode of The Mandalorian, and it felt like the blaster shots were zipping past my ears. The adaptive EQ automatically adjusts the audio to suit your ears, which is fantastic for most music genres. However, if you’re into bass-heavy tracks, the bass is more refined than punchy—it’s there but doesn’t overpower. Audiophiles might find the sound quality slightly lacking in texture and detail compared to higher-end alternatives like the Sony WF-1000XM4.

Battery Life & Charging

The battery life is another win for these earbuds. On a single charge, I got close to 6 hours of playback, which matches the advertised claim. The MagSafe Charging Case bumps this up to 30 hours of total listening time. Charging is quick too—five minutes in the case provided me with about an hour of playback. I found the wireless charging feature incredibly convenient, especially since I already have a MagSafe charger for my iPhone. However, if you’re someone who forgets to charge devices, the case’s battery indicator light might leave you wishing for a more precise battery percentage display.

Noise Cancellation & Ambient Mode

These AirPods don’t have active noise cancellation, which might feel like a step back if you’re used to the AirPods Pro. Instead, they offer sound isolation, which is decent but not groundbreaking. I could still hear background chatter in a coffee shop, although it wasn’t overly distracting. On the flip side, this lack of noise cancellation made them safer for outdoor runs since I could hear approaching cars or cyclists. It’s a trade-off that might suit some people better than others.

Durability & Water Resistance

Sweat and water resistance are rated at IPX4, making these earbuds reliable for workouts and light rain. I’ve worn them during a few treadmill sessions, and they held up without any issues. However, I wouldn’t recommend exposing them to heavy rain or submerging them in water, as they’re not fully waterproof. My cousin, who accidentally dropped one into a puddle, found it still worked fine after drying it off, but I wouldn’t want to risk testing this myself!

Warranty

Apple’s standard 1-year limited warranty applies, which is pretty standard. If you’re clumsy or prone to losing them (like me), the optional AppleCare+ might be worth considering. It covers accidental damage and provides some peace of mind. A friend of mine already had to replace a single AirPod due to a mishap with their dog, and having AppleCare+ saved them from shelling out a hefty replacement fee.

Advantages

Here are a few winning points that stood out to me:

• Spatial Audio: Immersive sound experience with dynamic head tracking.
• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours with the case, which is impressive for its size.
• Comfortable Fit: Lightweight and easy to wear for extended periods.
• Seamless Connectivity: Pairs instantly with Apple devices and switches effortlessly between them.

Negative Attributes

Of course, no product is perfect. Here are some negative attributes I noticed:

• No Active Noise Cancellation: Lacks advanced noise-blocking features found in competitors.
• One-Size-Fits-All Design: May not suit everyone’s ear shape.
• Glossy Finish: The case attracts fingerprints easily.

Competing Products

When compared to other options like the Sony WF-1000XM4 or even its sibling, the AirPods Pro, the 3rd Generation AirPods hold their own but are not without compromises. Sony’s earbuds offer superior noise cancellation and more detailed audio but are bulkier. Meanwhile, the AirPods Pro provide active noise cancellation and customizable ear tips, making them a better choice for those seeking a snugger fit and quieter listening experience. However, the 3rd Gen AirPods outshine both in terms of comfort for prolonged use and their effortless integration into the Apple ecosystem.

Price to Quality Ratio

Evaluating the price to quality ratio, I’d say these earbuds are a solid investment for Apple users. They strike a balance between premium features and ease of use, making them a great middle-ground option. While there are cheaper alternatives, you’d be hard-pressed to find the same level of integration and user experience. If you’re entrenched in the Apple ecosystem, these are worth every penny. For Android or Windows users, though, the value might diminish due to limited compatibility with certain features.

Additional information