Apple AirPods Pro 3rd Generation
Shure SE535-CL
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
Shure SE535-CL
The Shure SE425 earphones deliver outstanding sound quality with crystal-clear vocals and a balanced soundstage, making them ideal for pop music and female vocals. However, the included cables are a major letdown—users report flimsy construction, crackling sounds from the wired cable, and a cheap plastic clip that breaks easily. While the audio performance is praised, the build quality of accessories and the stiff behind-ear cable detract from the overall experience.
Pros
- Crystal-clear vocals
- Balanced soundstage
- Excellent for pop music
- Great treble and mids
- Tight solid bass
Cons
- Flimsy included cables
- Crackling sound from wired cable
- Cheap plastic clip breaks easily
- Stiff behind-ear cable
- Overpriced compared to SE425
Scores
Specifications
| Apple AirPods Pro 3rd Generation | Shure SE535-CL | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | true wireless | over-the-ear |
| Ear Tips | XXS, XS, S, M, L | S, M, L |
| Weight | 0.01 kg★ | 0.44 kg |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | dynamic | balanced armature |
| Drivers | 1 | 3★ |
| Freq Min | — | 18 Hz★ |
| Freq Max | — | 19 kHz★ |
| Impedance | 140 Ω | 36 Ω |
| Sensitivity | — | 119 dB★ |
| Hi-Res Audio | ✓★ | — |
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | Shure SE535 Isolating In-Ear Stereo Headphones with Detachable Cable, Frequency Range 18 Hz - 19 kHz, Clear |
| 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
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)
Shure SE535-CL
- Strong sound (90th percentile)90th %ile
- Strong social proof (81st percentile)81st %ile
- Below average comfort (1st percentile)1st %ile
- Below average connectivity (12th percentile)12th %ile
- Below average anc (31st percentile)
- Below average user sentiment (33rd percentile)
Pricing
Apple AirPods Pro 3rd Generation offers 6.2x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 92 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 15 of 34 specs.
