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The latest AirPods Pro 3 have been a big hit, introducing a range of new features, enhanced audio, and improved noise cancellation. However, Apple’s best wireless earbuds came shortly after the launch of another pair of highly anticipated wireless earbuds, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen). 

Also: Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro: I listened to both models, here’s who wins

With both released relatively close together late last year, you might assume that they compete fairly closely. Do they? Should you buy the AirPods Pro 3 or the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)? I’ve used both extensively. Here are my thoughts.

Specifications

You should buy the AirPods Pro 3 if…

1. You use Apple devices

It’s no secret that Apple’s first-party advantage is undeniable. You’ll be able to use the AirPods Pro 3 with any of your other Apple devices, switching between those devices automatically You can access heart-rate information captured by the AirPods Pro 3 in Apple Health, use Apple’s solid Spatial Audio tech (which is actually pretty good when you use it for movies and TV shows) with an Apple TV, and use your Apple Watch charger to keep your AirPods Pro 3 topped up. 

You can even use the AirPods Pro 3 with an iPhone for live translation, which uses on-device AI to translate speech in other languages. Essentially, if you’re seeking more than the basic audio-related features, the first-party features offered by the Apple ecosystem likely make the AirPods Pro 3 a worthwhile purchase.

2. You want fitness-tracking features

One of the headline upgrades to the AirPods Pro 3 is their in-ear heart rate monitor. The AirPods Pro 3 can be used as fitness trackers; even without an Apple Watch, you can still track over 50 different types of workouts in the iPhone’s Fitness app. 

Also: AirPods Pro 3 vs. Powerbeats Pro 2: I tested both heart rate-tracking earbuds, and the winner is not so obvious

The Apple Fitness app features Apple’s new Workout Buddy, which utilizes Apple Intelligence to monitor and analyze your workout data, providing personalized motivation throughout your session. Even if you do use an Apple Watch, the heart rate data may be more accurate when you use both, as Apple Health will combine the information, instead of simply relying on one or the other.

3. You want a more neutral audio response

The audio in the AirPods Pro 3 is pretty significantly upgraded over the second-generation AirPods. The AirPods Pro 3 deliver a solid bass response, relatively detailed highs, and well-tuned mids, resulting in an overall enjoyable listening experience. 

It’s not the most neutral listening experience out there, but it is more neutral than Bose’s earbuds, which more significantly cut mids in favor of increased bass and high frequencies. 

You should buy the Bose QC Ultra Earbuds 2 if…

1. You don’t use Apple devices

The AirPods Pro 3 are excellent earbuds, but the vast majority of the features that make them great only work within Apple’s ecosystem. If you don’t use Apple devices or have any devices you want to use your earbuds with that aren’t made by Apple, the AirPods Pro 3 may not be the best option for you. 

Also: Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra shows the company still outperforms Apple in one key area

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) offer full functionality with any Bluetooth-enabled device, and the Bose companion app is compatible with Android and iOS devices. No matter what devices you use, you’ll still be able to make use of things like Bose’s take on spatial audio, a basic EQ, and so on.

2. You want the best noise cancellation

The AirPods Pro 3 offer excellent noise cancellation, effectively cutting out a wide range of noise, from the hustle and bustle of a busy city to the sound of a plane, allowing you to listen to your music or podcasts in peace. But the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) still offer slightly stronger ANC. Where Apple can seriously quieten audio, Bose can completely silence it. 

Also: I tried Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds’ AI noise cancelling, and can’t go back to regular ANC

Bose’s ANC does add some hiss to the background, but it’s not noticeable at medium volume or above, so it likely won’t bother you. 

3. You want more control over how your audio sounds

The EQ built into the Bose app is pretty subpar. You’ll only get three EQ bands, and they’re not even labeled with actual frequencies; instead, they’re simply labeled “bass,” “mids,” and “treble.” Still, Bose’s buds have an EQ. 

AirPods are notorious for lacking a real equalizer, and whether the reason is that Apple doesn’t want people tweaking what it sees as a perfect sound profile, or something else, the end result is that if you want to tweak how audio sounds, you’ll need to opt for the Bose earbuds. It’s ironic because, out of the box, the AirPods do sound a little more neutral. They’re just not customizable. 

Writer’s choice

Personally, I recommend the AirPods Pro 3 to anyone who uses Apple products. They’re excellent earbuds that sound great and fit comfortably, and the extra features that integrate into Apple’s ecosystem make significant improvements to everyday usage. However, if you don’t use Apple products, they may not be the right choice for you, and you should consider Bose’s earbuds as an alternative.