Apple AirPods (3rd Gen) Review: Redesigned for Familiar Comfort with Enhanced Features

Apple’s AirPods have significantly influenced the personal audio market, both in terms of technology and cultural impact. Although true wireless earbuds were available prior to the debut of the first-generation AirPods in late 2016, Apple’s version unmistakably brought global attention to this design style. The triumph of AirPods encouraged numerous brands to enter this emerging market and even to borrow inspiration from its distinctive aesthetics. In the present day, while a myriad of true wireless options are offered by various brands, the AirPods remain distinct for their recognizable aesthetics and design.

Recently, Apple introduced the AirPods (3rd Gen), retailing at Rs. 18,500 in India. Though this model is an advancement of the AirPods (2nd Gen), it boasts an entirely redesigned structure that closely resembles the Rs. 24,900 AirPods Pro. Nonetheless, it does not include some features that elevate the flagship model. Are the Apple AirPods (3rd Gen) the top true wireless earbuds available for under Rs. 20,000, and how well do they perform? Discover the details in this review.

Consistent with Apple’s true wireless offerings, the AirPods (3rd Gen) come in a single colour – white

 

MagSafe Charging Case for the Apple AirPods (3rd Gen)

With this third iteration, Apple has implemented a new design for the AirPods, drawing design cues from the AirPods Pro. The stems of the earbuds are now shorter, and every earpiece has a force-touch button for controlling functionality, akin to that on the Pro model. Unlike the Pro, which includes silicone ear tips for a more secure and noise-isolating fit, the AirPods (3rd Gen) maintain the original outer-ear fit.

The earpieces of the AirPods (3rd Gen) are also larger than those of the earlier AirPods, featuring broader grilles. This results in a more secure fit than the AirPods (2nd Gen), though it does not match the stability and isolation provided by the AirPods Pro.

I could detect significant background noise while using the new AirPods, which is intentional to render them more suitable for outdoor environments. True to Apple’s recent true wireless models, the AirPods (3rd Gen) are exclusively available in white. The earpieces and charging case hold an IPX4 rating for water resistance, allowing them to withstand light moisture from water and sweat.

A prominent update is the inclusion of force-touch controls on the Apple AirPods (3rd Gen). In contrast to the less accurate touch controls found on the earlier models, force-touch necessitates a more intentional action similar to pressing a button, and the feedback provided by the devices gives a mechanical button-like sensation, despite not being true buttons.

These controls let you play or pause audio, skip tracks forward or backward, and answer phone calls, as well as activate Siri without needing your smartphone. Although volume cannot be adjusted directly from the earbuds, Siri voice commands can be utilized for this purpose.

The charging case for the Apple AirPods (3rd Gen) is shorter and wider compared to the 2nd Gen version, accommodating the shape of the redesigned earpieces. The Lightning charging port is located on the bottom, the pairing button is on the back, and the status indicator light is positioned at the front. This case supports Qi wireless charging with MagSafe compatibility for supported accessories.

The Apple AirPods (3rd Gen) feature an outer-ear fit; silicone ear tips like those on the AirPods Pro are absent

 

Apple continues to incorporate Bluetooth 5 and the AAC Bluetooth codec as the standard when paired with Apple devices, with SBC codec also supported. The AirPods (3rd Gen) utilize Apple’s proprietary H1 chip, facilitating quick pairing and enhancing connectivity with other Apple gadgets. Additionally, there is a skin detection sensor that allows the earphones to recognize when they are on your ears, automatically controlling the playback and pause features. Notably, the AirPods (3rd Gen) do not include active noise cancellation, and the packaging contains only a USB Type-C to Lightning charging cable.

Battery performance on the Apple AirPods (3rd Gen) surpasses the 2nd Gen and Pro models; I experienced just over 5 hours of usage time from the earpieces during both music playback and calls. The charging case can recharge the earpieces up to four times, providing a total battery duration of around 25-26 hours per charge cycle. This is commendable considering the capabilities of the AirPods (3rd Gen).

Spatial Audio and Enhanced Siri on the AirPods (3rd Gen)

Apple launched Spatial Audio alongside Apple TV and expanded it to Apple Music in mid-2021. The AirPods (3rd Gen), akin to the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, supports Spatial Audio alongside head tracking for compatible services.

The Siri voice assistant is also integrated into the AirPods (3rd Gen), allowing you to activate the hands-free ‘Hey Siri’ feature. This functions just like it does on an iPhone or HomePod, though the headset needs to be connected to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac for Internet access. Siri can announce incoming notifications, control volume, manage playback, retrieve specific content, and contact individuals directly from the earbuds, functioning seamlessly for me.

Other significant features include Apple’s rapid pairing and setup process, which recognizes the AirPods (3rd Gen) and links them to your Apple ID for automatic pairing and effortless switching between other Apple devices. This functionality is also enhanced by the Find My app available on iOS. The Find My feature offers local tracking and alerts if the earbuds are left behind, similar to the capabilities of an Apple AirTag.

Of course, you can connect the AirPods (3rd Gen) to other devices such as Android phones via standard Bluetooth. However, the advanced features available when utilizing the headset with Apple devices will not be accessible.

Quality Sound, Yet Limited Noise Isolation on the Apple AirPods (3rd Gen)

This generational improvement for the AirPods goes beyond mere aesthetics; the AirPods (3rd Gen) incorporate several essential features from the AirPods Pro that differentiate them from the 2nd Gen model. Among these are Adaptive EQ, Apple’s customized high-excursion drivers and high dynamic range amplifier, as well as Spatial Audio support. Collectively, these features provide the new AirPods with sound quality that rivals the more costly AirPods Pro, albeit without active noise cancellation.

To fully utilize the features of the AirPods (3rd Gen), you’ll require an iOS device

 

The absence of ANC can be viewed both positively and negatively on the AirPods (3rd Gen); the audio output remains unspoiled, but you end up hearing a considerable amount of ambient noise along with your music, which could detract from the listening experience. Nevertheless, the earphones are loud and clear enough to ensure a satisfying audio experience even in moderately noisy surroundings.

Apple’s Adaptive EQ feature – also found on the pricier AirPods Pro and AirPods Max – is included in the AirPods (3rd Gen) and is supported by internal microphones that enable automatic equalizer adjustments based on the unique shape of the user’s ears. I noticed that the sound quality is more akin to that of the AirPods Pro than the second-generation AirPods; the sonic profile appears capable of adapting to various music genres and tracks seamlessly.

Beginning with «Snitch» by Netsky and Aloe Blacc, the Apple AirPods (3rd Gen) produced a sound that was instantly captivating and well-suited to the track, ensuring that each part of the frequency range received appropriate attention. The intro was detailed, with Aloe Blacc’s vocals coming across as sharp and distinct. This energetic, synthesized electronic number sounded remarkable, with the AirPods (3rd Gen) navigating through it almost instinctively.

More intense and quicker tracks like «Holdin’ On» (Skrillex and Nero Remix) by Monsta came through cohesively and forcefully, as the AirPods (3rd Gen) kept pace with the rapid changes within the track, transitioning smoothly between the softer vocals and robust bass. With the slower, more nuanced «Truth» by Kamasi Washington, the earbuds successfully highlighted the intricacies of the jazz instruments, while skillfully adapting to gradual shifts in tempo and tone.

Adaptive EQ and proficient tuning contribute to good sound quality in the AirPods (3rd Gen), although the lack of noise isolation does limit the overall experience

 

Performance was quite satisfactory with spoken audio from audiobooks, although I often needed to increase the volume to near maximum levels when outside to adequately overcome background noise. Overall, the Apple AirPods (3rd Gen) deliver an enjoyable listening experience and can adapt well to different music genres and tracks. The sound quality is nearly on par with that of the AirPods Pro, albeit slightly different due to the absence of active noise cancellation and the ability to detect ambient sounds in the environment.

While Spatial Audio support for Dolby Atmos and head tracking isn’t a new feature across the AirPods line, it has gained relevance since its incorporation into Apple Music in mid-2021. The AirPods (3rd Gen) support these features within Apple TV and Apple Music when paired with a compatible device.

The performance of Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio is as impressive as that of the AirPods Pro, with the earbuds simulating a surround sound experience despite being limited to two-channel audio. The head tracking feature is also commendable; turning my head while listening to particular tracks created a sensation where the music seemed «anchored» in place; vocals from Dolby Atmos-enabled tracks typically appeared to emanate from the direction of the source device, even when my head was turned elsewhere.

Apple employs a unique method to minimize wind and ambient noise during calls using an acoustic mesh around the microphones. While it is challenging to quantify the effect this has on the overall experience, I had positive calling experiences with the AirPods (3rd Gen) both indoors and outdoors. Still, the absence of active noise cancellation and noise isolation noticeably influenced my ability to focus on conversations in a noisy environment.

There’s also support for a new AAC-ELD codec, purportedly designed to enhance voice quality during FaceTime calls. However, I didn’t observe a significant improvement compared to prior models.

Conclusion

With a price tag of Rs. 18,500 in India, the Apple AirPods (3rd Gen) are a premium pair of true wireless earbuds, especially considering the absence of active noise cancellation. Nevertheless, they stand out in other aspects. They integrate seamlessly with Apple devices and accessories, deliver commendable sound quality, and provide an overall usage experience that is closely aligned with iOS, Siri, and Apple Music. While they naturally don’t quite match the AirPods Pro, they represent the next best option, particularly for those with a budget of under Rs. 20,000.

There are several competing products available at this price or even lower that offer enhanced passive noise isolation (unless you prefer the outer-ear style) and active noise cancellation, but the AirPods (3rd Gen) are tailored to excel within the Apple ecosystem. If you own an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you may want to prioritize the AirPods (3rd Gen) over competitor options, solely for their superior compatibility. However, with the AirPods Pro frequently discounted during sales, you might find that model available for just a little more than the AirPods (3rd Gen).

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