Apple AirPods Pro 3rd Generation
Google Pixel Buds 2a
What Buyers Say
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
Google Pixel Buds 2a
The Google Pixel Buds 2a are overwhelmingly praised for their excellent sound quality, comfortable fit, and effective noise cancellation at a reasonable price. Users highlight the seamless integration with Pixel phones, long battery life, and the unique repairable case battery. Some criticisms include the lack of wireless charging, limited touch controls, and occasional connectivity quirks, but overall sentiment is very positive.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Comfortable fit
- Effective noise cancellation
- Seamless Pixel integration
- Long battery life
Cons
- No wireless charging
- Limited touch controls
- No volume control on buds
- Occasional connectivity issues
- ANC always on
Scores
Specifications
| Apple AirPods Pro 3rd Generation | Google Pixel Buds 2a | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | true wireless | true wireless |
| Ear Tips | XXS, XS, S, M, L | Extra small, Small, Medium, Large |
| Weight | 0.09 kg | 0.05 kg★ |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver Size | — | 11 mm★ |
| Drivers | 1 | 1 |
| Impedance | 140 Ω | 24 Ω |
| Hi-Res Audio | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC |
| Surround | Spatial Audio | — |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✓ | ✓ |
| ANC Type | adaptive | Silent Seal 1.5 |
| Transparency | ✓ | ✓ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.4★ |
| Multipoint | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wired Connector | USB-C | — |
| Earbud Battery | ||
| Battery Life | 8 hrs★ | 7 hrs |
| Fast Charging | 5 Minutes for 1 Hour | 5 Minutes for 1 Hour |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C |
| Case Battery | ||
| Case Battery | 24 hrs★ | 20 hrs |
| Case Charging | USB-C | USB-C |
| Wireless Charging | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mic Count | 2 | 2 |
| NC Mic | ✓ | ✓ |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Gemini |
| Touch Controls | ✓ | ✓ |
| App | Android & iOS | Pixel Buds app |
| Volume Limiting | — | ✗ |
| Gaming Mode | — | ✗ |
| Bone Conduction | ✗ | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | IP57 | IP54 |
Pros & Cons
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 (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Below average affordability (11th percentile)11th %ile
- Below average user sentiment (34th percentile)
Google Pixel Buds 2a
- Strong social proof (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong connectivity (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
- Strong anc (90th percentile)90th %ile
- Below average affordability (26th percentile)
- Below average build (34th percentile)
Pricing
Google Pixel Buds 2a offers 1.5x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 86 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 4 of 34 specs.
