Best AirPods 2025: I’ve used every pair of Apple headphones and earbuds – these are the winners

Why we like them: The AirPods Pro 3 are Apple’s most advanced headphones, offering hearing health features, in-ear heart rate monitoring, effective active and adaptive noise cancellation, and Apple’s superb transparency mode. The AirPods Pro 3’s new earbud and eartip design should help most people achieve a better seal, resulting in improved sound immersion and noise-canceling performance.

Also: AirPods Pro 3 vs. AirPods Pro 2: I compared the two models, and here’s who should upgrade

The AirPods Pro 3’s noise cancellation is tangibly improved over its predecessor, although Bose’s noise cancellation still has an edge at canceling lower frequencies. Additionally, the earbuds’ heart rate sensor and upgrades to the iOS Fitness app make the Pro 3 more than simply a vessel for canceling noise and playing music — they’re a true companion to your iPhone and can offer more value to your everyday needs. 

Who they’re for: These AirPods are ideal for iOS users looking for a small, easily pocketable pair of AirPods with advanced, “pro”-level features. The AirPods Pro 3 are ideal for individuals who prefer earbuds instead of over-ear headphones and desire a more discreet option for everyday use. 

The AirPods Pro 2 feature an IP57 rating, making them more resistant to dust, sweat, and water than the AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C). The stronger water resistance makes the AirPods and their charging case virtually waterproof — both can survive water immersion up to three feet for up to 30 minutes. I don’t recommend intentionally dunking your AirPods, but if an accident happens, they should be fine.

Working professionals, frequent flyers, and people on the move can appreciate the Pro 3’s compatibility with their iPhone, which enables them to control Siri, make and receive phone calls, and add events to their calendars hands-free.

Who should look elsewhere: Although the AirPods Pro 3 are our favorite AirPods for their versatility and performance, consider the AirPods 4 if the Pro 3 are too advanced for your needs, or if you prefer a more traditional fit. If you’re looking for over-ear headphones that serve as an auditory companion to your Apple devices, consider the AirPods Max.

The only major software upgrade the Pro 3 has over the Pro 2 is the addition of heart rate tracking. The AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 4 all utilize Apple’s H2 chip, which enables all earbuds to feature Live Translation, Adaptive Audio, and Conversation Mode, and more.

Like all AirPods, you should consider other headphones and earbuds if you have an Android smartphone or tablet, or a Windows or ChromeOS laptop. You’ll overpay for these earbuds and miss out on their best features, should you pair them with a non-Apple device.

AirPods Pro 3: Type: In-ear | Chip: H2 | Battery life: 8 hours; up to 24 with charging case | Water-resistant: IP57 (dust, sweat, and water resistant)