Pixel Buds Pro 2 vs Airpods Pro 3 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

AirPods Pro 3 & Pixel Buds Pro 2 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the AirPods Pro 3 rather than the Pixel Buds Pro 2.

Why Do I Recommend The AirPods Pro 3?

  • The AirPods Pro 3 features the Apple H2 chip for faster real-time audio processing and lower latency during calls and media playback, while the Pixel Buds Pro 2 uses the Google Tensor A1 chip.
  • AirPods Pro 3 includes Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for a more accurate surround sound experience that adapts to head movement during movies and music, whereas the Pixel Buds Pro 2 supports spatial audio without personalized calibration.
  • It comes with Adaptive Transparency for automatically reducing sudden loud noises like sirens or construction sounds while maintaining environmental awareness, while the Pixel Buds Pro 2 uses standard transparency mode.
  • The AirPods Pro 3 supports Ultra Wideband precision finding for locating the case with directional guidance and distance tracking through the Find My network, whereas the Pixel Buds Pro 2 uses location-based tracking without UWB.
  • AirPods Pro 3 features a MagSafe-compatible charging case for secure magnetic alignment and compatibility with Apple Watch chargers for more flexible charging options, while the Pixel Buds Pro 2 supports standard Qi wireless charging only.
  • It includes a built-in case speaker for emitting sound alerts during tracking or low battery notifications for easier physical location, while the Pixel Buds Pro 2 case does not include a speaker.
  • The AirPods Pro 3 has swipe-based volume controls on the stem for adjusting sound levels directly without using a phone, whereas the Pixel Buds Pro 2 relies on tap gestures or device controls.
  • AirPods Pro 3 supports seamless automatic switching across Apple devices linked to the same iCloud account for uninterrupted transitions between iPhone, iPad, and Mac, while the Pixel Buds Pro 2 supports standard Bluetooth multipoint for two devices.

Maybe the Pixel Buds Pro 2 can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the AirPods Pro 3. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureAirPods Pro 3Pixel Buds Pro 2
ChipsetApple H2Google Tensor A1
Active Noise Reduction~90% noise reduction~80% noise reduction
Earbud Battery (ANC ON)8h 42m7h 55m
Charging PortUSB-C + MagSafe + Apple WatchUSB-C
Wireless ChargingQi + MagSafeQi
Water ResistanceIP57IP54
Microphones3 microphones2 microphones
Driver SizeCustom high-excursion driver11 mm dynamic driver
Multipoint ConnectivityAutomatic Apple switchingMultipoint
Ultra WidebandU2 chipNot supported
Find TrackingPrecision Finding + speakerLocation-based tracking
Spatial AudioPersonalized + head trackingSpatial audio + head tracking
EQ TypeAdaptive EQ5-band manual EQ
Ear Tip DesignSilicone + foam tipsSilicone tips + stabilizer fin
Ear Tip Sizes5 sizes3 sizes
Control TypePinch + swipe gesturesTap + swipe gestures
Voice AssistantSiriGoogle Assistant + Gemini
Live TranslationGesture-triggeredApp-based real-time translation
Heart Rate SensorIntegratedNot available
Case SpeakerBuilt-inNot available
Ecosystem RequirementiOS full featuresAndroid full features
PriceCheck AirPods Pro 3 PriceCheck Pixel Buds Pro 2 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Active Noise Cancellation: Both earbuds include active noise cancellation technology that reduces external sound using built-in microphones and processing. This allows users to focus on audio playback in environments such as public transport or crowded spaces.
  • Transparency Mode: Each model features a transparency mode that lets outside sound pass through while wearing the earbuds. This is useful for staying aware of surroundings without removing the earbuds during conversations or while walking.
  • Spatial Audio: Both support spatial audio, creating a sense of depth and direction in sound playback. This enhances immersion when watching movies or listening to compatible content.
  • In-Ear Design: Both earbuds use an in-ear form factor that sits inside the ear canal. This design improves passive noise isolation and helps stabilize the earbuds during movement.
  • Silicone Ear Tips: Each product uses silicone ear tips to create a seal inside the ear. This helps improve both comfort and audio performance by reducing sound leakage.
  • Multiple Ear Tip Sizes: Both models include multiple ear tip sizes to accommodate different ear shapes. This ensures a better fit, which directly impacts comfort and sound isolation.
  • Touch Controls: Both earbuds support touch-based controls for playback and calls. This allows users to interact with the device without needing to access their phone.
  • Voice Assistant Support: Each device integrates with a voice assistant for hands-free control. This enables tasks such as setting reminders, controlling music, or checking notifications.
  • Wireless Charging: Both cases support Qi wireless charging for cable-free power replenishment. This adds convenience when using compatible charging pads.
  • USB-C Charging: Both earbuds use a USB-C port for wired charging. This provides faster and more universal compatibility compared to older charging standards.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Each model connects via Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of smartphones, tablets, and computers.
  • Automatic Pairing: Both earbuds support automatic pairing with previously connected devices. This simplifies the connection process and reduces setup time.
  • In-Ear Detection: Each model detects when the earbuds are placed in or removed from the ears. This enables automatic play and pause functionality for seamless listening.
  • Dual Microphones: Both include multiple microphones in each earbud for capturing voice and environmental sound. This setup improves clarity during calls and supports noise reduction features.
  • Call Noise Reduction: Each device uses processing to reduce background noise during calls. This ensures clearer voice transmission in noisy environments.
  • Companion App Support: Both earbuds are supported by companion apps for settings and customization. This allows users to adjust controls, update firmware, and manage features.
  • Firmware Updates: Each product receives firmware updates that improve performance and add features. This helps extend usability over time.
  • Water Resistance: Both earbuds include water resistance protection for daily use. This allows them to handle sweat and light rain without damage.
  • Case Battery Charging: Each model includes a charging case that stores additional battery power. This extends total usage time beyond a single charge.
  • Stereo Sound Output: Both deliver stereo audio with separate left and right channels. This provides a balanced listening experience with proper sound separation.

Common Features

FeatureAirPods Pro 3Pixel Buds Pro 2
Active Noise CancellationYesYes
Transparency ModeYesYes
Spatial AudioYesYes
In-Ear DesignYesYes
Silicone Ear TipsYesYes
Multiple Ear Tip SizesYesYes
Touch ControlsYesYes
Voice Assistant SupportYesYes
Wireless ChargingQiQi
USB-C ChargingYesYes
Bluetooth ConnectivityYesYes
Automatic PairingYesYes
In-Ear DetectionYesYes
Dual MicrophonesYesYes
Call Noise ReductionYesYes
Companion App SupportYesYes
Firmware UpdatesYesYes
Water ResistanceYesYes
Case Battery ChargingYesYes
Stereo Sound OutputYesYes
Price Check AirPods Pro 3 Price
Check Pixel Buds Pro 2 Price

FAQ

Is there a noticeable difference in sound quality between AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2?
Both AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 deliver high-quality sound with balanced tuning, but AirPods Pro 3 focuses more on adaptive EQ and personalized spatial audio, while Pixel Buds Pro 2 provides a customizable EQ for users who prefer manual sound adjustments.

Which earbuds have better active noise cancellation?
AirPods Pro 3 provides stronger adaptive noise cancellation with real-time environmental adjustments, whereas Pixel Buds Pro 2 delivers consistent ANC performance without the same level of dynamic tuning.

Do both support spatial audio?
Yes, both AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 support spatial audio, but AirPods Pro 3 includes personalized head tracking, while Pixel Buds Pro 2 supports spatial audio with standard head tracking.

Which model has longer battery life?
Pixel Buds Pro 2 generally provides longer battery life per charge and with the case, while AirPods Pro 3 focuses more on efficiency and fast integration with Apple devices.

Can both earbuds connect to multiple devices?
Yes, both support multi-device connectivity, but AirPods Pro 3 uses automatic switching within the Apple ecosystem, while Pixel Buds Pro 2 supports standard Bluetooth multipoint for two devices.

Do they support wireless charging?
Yes, both earbuds support Qi wireless charging, but AirPods Pro 3 also supports MagSafe and Apple Watch charging for additional flexibility.

Which one is better for Android users?
Pixel Buds Pro 2 is better suited for Android users due to deeper Google Assistant integration and full feature access, whereas AirPods Pro 3 has limited functionality outside Apple devices.

Which one is better for iPhone users?
AirPods Pro 3 is optimized for iPhone users with seamless pairing, iCloud sync, and system-level integration, while Pixel Buds Pro 2 works on iPhone but lacks deeper integration.

Do both earbuds have good call quality?
Yes, both models provide clear call quality with noise reduction features, though AirPods Pro 3 emphasizes voice isolation, while Pixel Buds Pro 2 uses AI-based call clarity.

Are both earbuds water resistant?
Yes, both AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 have water resistance ratings suitable for workouts and light rain, though AirPods Pro 3 also includes dust resistance.

Do they support voice assistants?
Yes, AirPods Pro 3 supports Siri, while Pixel Buds Pro 2 supports Google Assistant and Gemini, each tailored to their respective ecosystems.

Which earbuds are more comfortable for long use?
Both are designed for comfort with multiple ear tip sizes, but comfort depends on ear shape, with AirPods Pro 3 using a stem design and Pixel Buds Pro 2 using a more compact form.

Do both have a companion app?
Yes, both earbuds have companion app support, with AirPods settings integrated into iOS and Pixel Buds Pro 2 managed through the Pixel Buds app on Android.

Can both earbuds be tracked if lost?
Yes, both offer tracking features, but AirPods Pro 3 includes precision finding with UWB and a speaker in the case, while Pixel Buds Pro 2 relies on Google’s Find My Device network.

Do they receive software updates over time?
Yes, both AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 receive firmware updates that improve performance and add features, ensuring long-term usability.