I once judged individuals who worked out with AirPods, considering them clunky and unstable. My perspective remained unchanged even after the release of the AirPods Pro until I gave them a try myself. Apple’s noise-cancelling earbuds swiftly became my top choice for workouts. Following that, the AirPods Pro 2 served as my preferred option for eight months because of their rich sound, efficient ANC, and secure fit with silicone tips. Their voice activation, lightweight design, and sweat/water resistance (IPX4) rendered them perfect for physical activity.
With the arrival of the AirPods Pro 3, boasting enhanced health features and a revamped ergonomic design, it would be easy to think they’d be my next exercise companion. Nonetheless, please refrain from making assumptions. For the past six months, I’ve been using the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, which I deem the ultimate workout earbuds overall, despite some minor ANC limitations. They shine in audio quality, battery longevity, and serviceability.
The AirPods Pro 3 and Powerbeats Pro 2 possess comparable features and specifications, leading me to anticipate superior performance from Apple’s earbuds during workouts. This was largely accurate, although certain issues may be deal-breakers based on personal preferences.
The prominent feature of the AirPods Pro 3 is heart rate monitoring, outperforming other earbuds with HRM, including the Powerbeats Pro 2. Optical sensors positioned near the tip utilize infrared light to gauge blood flow in your ears, paired with advanced algorithms for precision. When I compared their readings with my Fitbit Charge 6, the results were surprisingly aligned, even coinciding with treadmill HRM sensors.
However, heart rate monitoring isn’t the sole reason the AirPods Pro 3 excel for workouts. Their IP57 dust and water resistance guards against moisture damage. The touch sensors on the stems facilitate effortless volume adjustments, and the “Hey Siri” voice activation provides hands-free operation for calls and playlist modifications.
Apple’s audio modes give the AirPods Pro 3 a competitive edge over other workout earbuds. Transparency mode improves situational awareness, allowing you to hear pedestrians and vehicles while jogging outdoors. Adaptive Audio responds to your environment, blending ANC and Transparency modes. Personalized Volume learns from your listening habits to adjust volume levels, and Conversation Awareness decreases media volume to highlight nearby voices.
These AirPods are the most exercise-friendly yet, featuring a broader sound port for a better ear fit. The silicone tips create a snug seal and absorb sweat to prevent slipping. Initially concerned about their durability on the treadmill, I discovered they remained in place during runs and side movements.
However, the redesigned structure impacts comfort. The sound port juts out more, pressing against the ear canal and concha, leading to discomfort after three hours. Those with a high pain threshold may endure five hours before experiencing discomfort.
The AirPods Pro 3 produce more vibrant audio compared to their predecessors. Apple’s revised acoustic design offers deeper bass and enhanced clarity, perfect for workouts. The adaptive EQ adjusts sound dynamically. Personalized Spatial Audio amplifies realism in workout videos, ensuring instructors’ voices stand out against ambient noise. It’s particularly beneficial for Apple Music, crafting an immersive sound environment for Dolby Atmos content.
Android users should consider other options, as the AirPods Pro 3 aren’t tailored for Google’s operating system. They operate on the H2 processor rather than Beats’ chipset, specifically designed for iOS/macOS and Android. Therefore, Android users forfeit essential features like HRM, spatial audio, and voice assistance.
In summary, the AirPods Pro 3 are outstanding workout earbuds with exceptional performance. Additional evaluation is required to see if they surpass the Powerbeats Pro 2 as a fitness companion. Nonetheless, their superior heart rate monitoring and innovative audio modes position them as strong contenders.