[REVIEW] Apple AirPods 3: the offer is finally complete

We had to wait a while, but the new AirPods 3 are finally a fact. In addition to a new appearance, the earbuds have also received a number of new functionalities. The only question is: are the improvements good enough to justify the $200 price tag?

Last week I had the chance to get started with the new AirPods 3. In this review I tell you exactly what I noticed this week and I keep the price tag next to the quality of the earbuds.

AirPods 3: This design is not for me

‘Nicely fascinating, Hofman’, you probably think when you read the headline above. Rightly so, because what exactly does my opinion say about what this new design means for you as a consumer? Well, basically everything.

The AirPods 3 have been given the same design as the AirPods Pro. So the stems are shorter (33%), the charging case is wider and the earbuds have a slightly different shape. The only difference is that this model is not equipped with tips, so that the earplugs also close out the ambient noise well. In short: no active Noise cancellation, but more about that later. In addition to the lack of the much-loved functionality, this design brings even more.

Operating the earbuds, and in particular the content that is being played, works in a slightly different way. Where with the previous model you had to tap the side of the ears, you now have to squeeze the stem. This will take some getting used to at first, but is generally an excellent alternative. The fact that the new design also provides improved water and sweat resistance (IPX4) is also very nice.

In essence, it doesn’t really matter what I think of the AirPods 3, but it hits the nail on the head. The new design is not only a matter of taste in appearance, but will also leave its mark in daily use. Personally, I am a fan of the design of the second generation and the earplugs are less comfortable in my opinion. But that doesn’t necessarily apply to you.

Skin detection and sound from all angles

The new AirPods 3 are equipped with a number of brand new functionalities. Something that benefits every consumer. The two biggest additions in my opinion are Spatial Audio and the skin detection.

We’ve known Spatial Audio for a while. The technology ensures that you as a consumer are drawn into the content. Something that Apple accomplishes by letting the sound flow around you. Previously, this was already possible on your iPhone and iPad with the AirPods Pro or the AirPods Max. Now it is also possible to use it with your AirPods 3 on your Mac or Apple TV. The fact that the experience is pleasant has been known for a while. I don’t think I need to explain to you that it’s nice that we will have to deal with it more from now on.

Maybe why I like skin detection so much. Personally, I sometimes put my AirPods loose in my pocket, for example at the checkout of the supermarket. Just to not come across as antisocial. Only the second generation (and the Pro too) used sensors that determined on the basis of light whether the music should be resumed or not. Result: my music or podcast sometimes continued to play without being asked. Apple can prevent this with skin detection. Although it is a good tip not to hold the AirPods 3 in your hand, because apparently that is also skin…

But there’s more!

The above two functionalities are the greatest in my opinion, but the AirPods 3 are equipped with more fine features. For example, think of a better Find Mysupport, so you can find them anytime, anywhere. Or how about the 11mm Driver for better sound quality?

The latter pays off nicely, especially considering the microphone that ensures that you always get the optimal sound quality. I personally don’t think the difference with the second generation is very big, but I notice in certain situations (especially in songs with a lot of bass) that there is an improvement. Given that this second generation offered excellent sound quality, I think there is little to complain about.

What I really have little to nothing to complain about is the battery. With a battery life of 30 hours, the AirPods 3 last longer than the second generation. The earbuds themselves last for six hours, and then you can top up the other 24 hours with the supplied case. The case itself can now also be charged in several ways. In addition to charging with a Lightning cable, it is possible to charge the AirPods 3 wirelessly or via MagSafe.

AirPods 3: aren’t the earbuds too expensive?

The AirPods 3 are a nice upgrade compared to the second generation. The generation I’ve fallen so in love with over the past two years. Not a day has gone by where I haven’t used the earbuds, and that certainly will be the case with the AirPods 3. And yet I’m not sure.

With a suggested retail price of € 199, you can say that the earplugs are quite pricey. Especially for people who still have the second generation and are very satisfied with it. The innovation is there, but again not to such an extent that the purchase is a no-brainer. In that regard, the AirPods Pro, with a suggested retail price of €279, come closer. Especially, because these are now for sale at parties such as Bol.com and Coolblue for €219. Twenty euros more for noise reduction. I would know.

AirPods 3: Buy or Leave?

With the AirPods 3, Apple is still a bit confused about a fairly well-arranged offer, but that’s not a bad thing. There is simply something for everyone at the moment.

The AirPods 2 are for those who are a fan of “the old design” and simply want to buy the cheapest earbuds from Apple. The AirPods Pro is for people who want to get the most out of earplugs and therefore also want to enjoy Active Noise Cancellation.

The AirPods 3 was created for consumers who do not like the tips of the AirPods Pro and do not find ANC so important. Instead, the earplugs are more resistant to water, have a better battery life and are equipped with skin detection. So it’s just what you’re looking for.