Apple’s 3rd generation AirPods (model numbers A2565, A2564, and A2566) offer a significant upgrade over their predecessors, combining the best features of previous models with some of the advanced technology found in the AirPods Pro. With a new design, enhanced sound quality, spatial audio support, and improved battery life, the 3rd Gen AirPods provide a well-rounded, premium wireless listening experience.
Here’s a detailed look at what makes the 3rd Gen AirPods a standout choice for Apple users.
Design and Comfort
The 3rd Gen AirPods feature a more compact and refined design that closely resembles the AirPods Pro, but without the silicone ear tips. The shorter stems give them a sleeker and more modern look compared to the longer stems on the 2nd Gen AirPods. While they don’t have the in-ear fit of the Pro model, they strike a balance between the original open design and a more ergonomic shape, making them comfortable for a wide range of users.
The AirPods sit comfortably in the ears and feel secure during casual use, making them ideal for everyday listening, phone calls, and even light workouts. However, because they don’t have the customizable ear tips like the AirPods Pro, they may not provide as snug a fit for some users during more intense activities like running or exercise.
Design Highlights:
- Compact design: Sleeker, shorter stems with a more refined look.
- Comfortable fit: Open-ear design that’s comfortable for long listening sessions.
- Water and sweat resistance: Rated IPX4, meaning they can withstand sweat and light rain, making them great for workouts.
Sound Quality and Spatial Audio
One of the most impressive upgrades in the 3rd Gen AirPods is the sound quality. Apple has enhanced the audio performance by introducing adaptive EQ, which automatically tunes the sound to the shape of your ears. This feature ensures a more balanced and immersive listening experience, with deeper bass and clearer highs compared to previous models.
Additionally, the 3rd Gen AirPods support spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, a feature previously limited to the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max. Spatial audio creates a more immersive 3D sound experience, especially when listening to Dolby Atmos content on Apple Music or watching movies that support this format. The head tracking feature adjusts the audio positioning as you move your head, making it feel like the sound is coming from around you, rather than directly from the AirPods.
Sound Highlights:
- Adaptive EQ: Automatically adjusts the sound based on the fit in your ears for a more personalized audio experience.
- Spatial audio: Immersive 3D sound with dynamic head tracking, great for movies and music.
- Improved bass and clarity: Better sound performance overall, with richer lows and sharper highs.
Battery Life
Battery life has also received a significant boost in the 3rd Gen AirPods. You can expect up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, which is an improvement over the previous generations. With the MagSafe charging case, you can extend that to a total of 30 hours of listening time. The case also supports wireless charging, making it more convenient for users who prefer to charge their devices without cables.
If you’re in a hurry, a quick 5-minute charge in the case provides up to 1 hour of listening time, which is perfect for those on the go. This improvement in battery life makes the 3rd Gen AirPods an excellent companion for daily commutes, long workdays, or extended trips without the need to recharge frequently.
Battery Highlights:
- 6 hours of listening time: A single charge lasts longer than previous models.
- 30 hours with the case: Extended battery life for all-day use.
- MagSafe and wireless charging: Convenient charging options with faster and easier top-ups.
Features and Connectivity
The 3rd Gen AirPods come packed with all the smart features that make AirPods so popular. Powered by Apple’s H1 chip, they offer fast and seamless connectivity with Apple devices. Simply open the case near your iPhone or iPad, and you’re automatically connected. They also support Automatic Device Switching, meaning they can seamlessly switch between your Apple devices—such as iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch—depending on which one you’re using.
The force sensor on the stems allows you to control playback, adjust volume, answer calls, or activate Siri with a simple press, which is a more intuitive and tactile way to interact with the AirPods. Siri can also be activated hands-free by saying “Hey Siri,” allowing you to control music, check the weather, or send messages without needing to touch your device.
Feature Highlights:
- H1 chip: Fast pairing and smooth switching between Apple devices.
- Force sensor: Easy controls for music, calls, and Siri.
- Automatic Device Switching: Seamless switching between Apple devices without manual reconnection.
Water and Sweat Resistance
For those who like to take their AirPods on workouts or outdoor activities, the 3rd Gen AirPods are IPX4-rated for water and sweat resistance. This makes them ideal for exercise or use in light rain, providing peace of mind that they’ll hold up under intense use.
While they don’t offer the active noise cancellation (ANC) or transparency mode of the AirPods Pro, the open-ear design and water resistance still make them versatile enough for a variety of environments, whether you’re at the gym, on a run, or commuting.
Durability Highlights:
- IPX4 water and sweat resistance: Suitable for workouts and outdoor use.
- Durable build: Designed to withstand daily wear and tear.
Price in Australia
The 3rd Gen AirPods are priced at around AU$279 in Australia, sitting between the standard AirPods (2nd Gen) and the AirPods Pro in terms of cost. For users who don’t necessarily need the active noise cancellation and custom-fit ear tips of the Pro model, but still want a significant audio and design upgrade from the 2nd Gen, the 3rd Gen AirPods strike an excellent balance of value and performance.
Price Highlights:
- AU$279 price point: Reasonable given the improved design, sound quality, and spatial audio support.
Final Thoughts
The AirPods (3rd Gen) are a significant upgrade over the previous models, offering a sleek new design, improved sound quality, and features like spatial audio and adaptive EQ. With longer battery life, MagSafe charging, and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, these AirPods are a perfect choice for anyone looking for a premium wireless listening experience without stepping up to the AirPods Pro.
While they may not have active noise cancellation, the combination of comfort, sound quality, and smart features makes them a great option for most users, especially those who prioritize ease of use and integration with Apple devices. For AU$279, the 3rd Gen AirPods provide great value and performance, making them one of the best wireless earbuds available for Apple users