Etymotic ER3SE
Apple AirPods Pro 3rd Generation
What Buyers Say
Etymotic ER3SE
The Etymotic ER3 SE is widely praised for its neutral, uncolored sound and exceptional passive noise isolation, often described as god-tier for the price. Users highlight the need for proper deep insertion and aftermarket ear tips to achieve comfort and optimal sound, while the cable microphonics are a common frustration. The XR variant receives mixed feedback, with some finding it muddier than the SE. Overall, these IEMs are a top choice for audiophiles seeking clarity and isolation without active noise cancellation.
Pros
- Neutral, uncolored sound
- Exceptional passive noise isolation
- Great value for money
- Replaceable cable
- Comfortable with proper tips
Cons
- Pronounced cable microphonics
- Uncomfortable stock ear tips
- Requires deep insertion
- No inline mic or controls
- Not suitable for side sleeping
Apple AirPods Pro 3rd Generation
The AirPods Pro 3 receive high praise for their exceptional active noise cancellation, improved sound quality with deep bass and clear vocals, and comfortable secure fit. Users highlight the new heart-rate sensor, adaptive audio, and live translation as valuable upgrades. However, a few reviewers report discomfort due to the hard plastic shape or fit issues, and some note the case battery could be stronger. Overall, they are seen as a premium but worthwhile upgrade for daily use.
Pros
- Exceptional active noise cancellation
- Improved sound quality with deep bass
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Useful heart-rate sensor
- Adaptive audio and transparency mode
Cons
- Uncomfortable hard plastic shape for some
- Fit issues causing earbuds to fall out
- Case battery could be stronger
- High price point
- Different fit compared to previous generations
Scores
Specifications
| Etymotic ER3SE | Apple AirPods Pro 3rd Generation | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | detachable MMCX cable | true wireless |
| Ear Tips | Assorted eartips | XXS, XS, S, M, L |
| Weight | — | 0.01 kg★ |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | balanced armature | dynamic |
| Drivers | 1 | 1 |
| Freq Min | 20 Hz★ | — |
| Freq Max | 16 kHz★ | — |
| Impedance | 22 Ω | 140 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 120 dB★ | — |
| Hi-Res Audio | — | ✓★ |
| Codecs | Etymotic ER3SE Studio Edition Earphone,Black | AAC, SBC |
| Surround | — | Spatial Audio |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✗ | ✓★ |
| ANC Type | — | adaptive |
| Transparency | — | ✓★ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | — | ✓★ |
| Bluetooth | — | 5.3★ |
| Multipoint | — | ✓★ |
| Wired Connector | — | USB-C |
| Earbud Battery | ||
| Battery Life | — | 8 hrs★ |
| Fast Charging | — | 5 Minutes for 1 Hour |
| Charging | — | USB-C★ |
| Case Battery | ||
| Case Battery | — | 24 hrs★ |
| Case Charging | — | USB-C★ |
| Wireless Charging | — | ✓★ |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Mic Count | — | 2★ |
| NC Mic | — | ✓★ |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | — | Siri |
| Touch Controls | — | ✓★ |
| App | — | Android & iOS |
| Bone Conduction | ✗ | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | — | IP57 |
Pros & Cons
Etymotic ER3SE
- Strong user sentiment (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong sound (68th percentile)
- Strong social proof (67th percentile)
- Below average mic (12th percentile)12th %ile
- Below average connectivity (12th percentile)12th %ile
- Below average comfort (29th percentile)
- Below average anc (31st percentile)
Apple AirPods Pro 3rd Generation
- Strong connectivity (100th percentile)100th %ile
- Strong social proof (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong build (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong anc (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Below average user sentiment (33rd percentile)
Pricing
Apple AirPods Pro 3rd Generation offers 2.9x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 92 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 16 of 34 specs.
