Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs. Bose QC Ultra Earbuds 2: I compared the best ANC earbuds, and this pair wins

Follow ZDNET: Add us as a favorite source On Google.

latest airpods pro 3 are finally here, introducing a range of new features, upgraded audio and improved noise cancellation. However, Apple’s new best wireless earbuds come soon after the launch of another pair of highly anticipated wireless earbuds. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (second generation).

Also: Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: I listened to both models, here’s who wins

With both being released relatively close together, you can assume that they compete quite closely. Do they? Should you buy the AirPods Pro 3 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Generation)? I have used both extensively. Here are my thoughts.

Specifications

You should buy AirPods Pro 3 if…

1. You use an Apple device

It’s no secret that Apple’s first-party advantage is undeniable. You’ll be able to use the AirPods Pro 3 with any of your other Apple devices, automatically switching between those devices. You can access heart rate information captured by the AirPods Pro 3 in Apple Health, use Apple’s solid Spatial Audio technology (which is really great when you use it for movies and TV shows) with Apple TV, and keep your AirPods Pro 3 topped up. Can use Apple Watch charger.

You can also use AirPods Pro 3 with iPhone for Live Translate, which uses on-device AI to translate speech into other languages. Essentially, if you’re looking for more than basic audio-related features, the first-party features offered by the Apple ecosystem probably make the AirPods Pro 3 a worthwhile purchase.

2. You want fitness-tracking features

One of the major upgrades to the AirPods Pro 3 is their in-ear heart rate monitor. AirPods Pro 3 can be used as a fitness tracker; Even without an Apple Watch, you can track more than 50 different types of workouts in the iPhone’s Fitness app.

Also: AirPods Pro 3 vs. Powerbeats Pro 2: I tested both heart rate-tracking earbuds, and the winner isn’t so clear

The Apple Fitness app features Apple’s new Workout Buddy, which uses Apple Intelligence to monitor and analyze your workout data, providing personalized motivation throughout your sessions. Regardless of whether you use an Apple Watch, heart rate data may be more accurate when you use both, because Apple Health will combine the information, rather than relying solely on one or the other.

3. You want a more neutral audio response

The audio in the AirPods Pro 3 is significantly improved compared to the second generation AirPods. The AirPods Pro 3 offer a solid bass response, relatively detailed highs, and well-tuned mids, resulting in an overall enjoyable listening experience.

It’s not the most neutral listening experience, but it’s more neutral than Bose’s earbuds, which cut the mids more significantly in favor of increased bass and higher frequencies.

You should buy the Bose QC Ultra Earbuds 2 if…

1. You don’t use an Apple device

The AirPods Pro 3 are excellent earbuds, but most of the features that make them great only work within Apple’s ecosystem. If you don’t use an Apple device or have a device you want to use your earbuds with that isn’t made by Apple, the AirPods Pro 3 may not be the best choice for you.

Also: Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra shows the company is still outperforming Apple in one key area

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds (2nd generation) offer full functionality with any Bluetooth-enabled device, and the Bose companion app is compatible with Android and iOS devices. It doesn’t matter what equipment you use, you’ll still be able to use things like Bose’s take on spatial audio, a basic EQ, etc.

2. You want the best noise cancellation

AirPods Pro 3 offer excellent noise cancellation, effectively cutting out a wide range of noise from busy city bustle to airplane sounds, allowing you to listen to your music or podcasts in peace. But the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd generation) still offer slightly stronger ANC. Where Apple can seriously quiet the audio, Bose can make it downright quiet.

Also: I tried the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds’ AI noise canceling, and can’t go back to regular ANC

Bose’s ANC adds some whispering in the background, but it’s not noticeable at medium volumes or above, so it probably won’t bother you.

3. You want more control over how your audio sounds

The EQ built into the Bose app is pretty poor. You’ll only get three EQ bands, and they’re not even labeled with actual frequencies; Instead, they are simply labeled “bass,” “mids,” and “treble.” Still, Bose’s buds to pass An EQ.

AirPods are notorious for lacking a true equalizer, and whether that’s because Apple doesn’t want people to see them as having an ideal sound profile, or something else, the end result is that if you want to change the audio sound, you’ll have to opt for Bose earbuds. It’s ironic because, out of the box, the AirPods seem a bit more neutral. They are not customizable at all.

author’s choice

Personally, I recommend it airpods pro 3 Anyone who uses Apple products. They’re excellent earbuds that sound great and fit comfortably, and the additional features they integrate into Apple’s ecosystem make for significant improvements in everyday use. However, if you don’t use Apple products, they may not be the right choice for you, and you should consider Bose’s earbuds as an alternative.