Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
Apple's AirPods Pro 3 and Google's Pixel Buds Pro 2 represent the cutting edge of AI-powered earbuds, each leveraging their respective ecosystems for advanced features like real-time translation and conversational AI. While both offer significant upgrades in noise cancellation and AI capabilities, they cater to different user priorities—Apple focusing on health tracking and hearing assistance, Google emphasizing conversational AI and translation.
Apple AirPods Pro 3
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
Specifications compared
| Spec | Apple AirPods Pro 3 | Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $249.00 | $199.99 |
| DriftScore | 84/100 | 79/100 |
| driver | Custom Apple driver with H3 chip | 11mm custom driver + high-frequency chamber |
| anc | 2x ANC (4x vs original AirPods Pro) | 2x ANC vs Pixel Buds Pro |
| battery | 8 hours (ANC on), 30+ hours with case | 8 hours (ANC on), 30 hours with case |
| water_resistance | IP57 | — |
| connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + Apple U2 chip | Bluetooth 5.4 |
| features | Heart rate tracking, Live Translation, Hearing Aid mode | Gemini Live, Live Translate, Spatial Audio with head tracking |
| chip | — | Google Tensor A1 |
Score breakdown
Our verdict
The AirPods Pro 3 takes the win with a superior DriftScore of 87 vs 80, justifying its $20 premium with best-in-class ANC and unique health features like FDA-approved hearing aid functionality and heart rate tracking. Choose the Pixel Buds Pro 2 at $229 if you're deep in Google's ecosystem and prioritize Gemini Live conversations over health tracking. For most buyers seeking the most well-rounded AI earbuds, the AirPods Pro 3 delivers better overall performance despite the Apple ecosystem lock-in.
Frequently asked questions
Which has better noise cancellation AirPods Pro 3 or Pixel Buds Pro 2?
The AirPods Pro 3 offers superior noise cancellation with 2x more effective ANC compared to its predecessor and industry-leading performance. While the Pixel Buds Pro 2 also improved with 2x stronger ANC, Apple maintains the edge in this category.
Do I need an iPhone to use AirPods Pro 3 features?
While AirPods Pro 3 work with any Bluetooth device, the best features like heart rate tracking, Live Translation, and hearing aid functionality are optimized for Apple devices. You'll get basic audio on Android but miss the premium AI features.
Which earbuds are better for workouts?
The AirPods Pro 3 wins for fitness with built-in heart rate tracking during workouts, eliminating the need for a separate fitness tracker. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are 24% lighter but lack health monitoring features, making them less ideal for serious fitness tracking.