Apple AirPods Pro vs. Sony WF-1000XM3: Which Is Better?

Apple's latest entry into the truly wireless headphones arena, the AirPods Pro, boasts of a new design and a new noise canceling feature that allows it to compete with other big players. How will it fare against Sony's WF-1000XM3, which also offers noise canceling at a low price? Read on to find out.

Fans of truly wireless headphones that offer noise canceling features previously had Sony's WF-1000MX3 headphones as their best bet. This nifty pair of earbuds feature the QN1e chip that gave the WH-1000XM3 it's legendary noise canceling capabilities. It features a great fit and comes with a long battery life. Best of all, it's not that expensive.

These features and attractive selling price make Sony's offering really appealing. Apple decided to challenge it by releasing its own pair of noise canceling earbuds: the AirPods Pro. Is it better than Sony's WF-1000XM3? Here's a quick comparison of features to see which is better.

Comfort and Design

Apple's AirPods Pro features an in-ear design that uses silicone tips for several reasons. First, the tips will help the AirPods Pro stay in place. Second, they help sound inside the ear stay inside the ear canal. Third, they prevent outside noise from coming in.

Sony's earbuds also feature an in-ear design. It's bigger compared to the AirPods Pro, but at least it doesn't have that protruding stalk people continue to ridicule, the South China Morning Post noted.

Sound Quality

While the AirPods Pro sounds better compared to the older AirPods models, it doesn't sound as good as Sony's WF-1000XM3. Sony's offering boasts of richer tones and stronger bass – which sounds better with noise canceling turned on. Sony's earbuds also sound better than the AirPods Pro over a range of different genres.

Battery life

The AirPods Pro lasts 4.5 hours on a single charge, with ANC turned on. Sony's headphones, on the other hand, lasts up to 6 hours on a single charge, ANC turned on. Both of their charging cases can juice them up, making for a total of 24 hours each.

Price

Engadget noted that the AirPods Pro now sells for $235 on Amazon, about $14 down from its original $250 selling price. Those who order through Amazon, however, will need to wait for some time before the item actually arrives.

Sony's WF-1000XM3, on the other hand, sells for $229.99. Refurbished models can be bought from Amazon for as low as $149.99.

Which is better?

Regardless of features, it's best to know that the AirPods Pro works better with Apple devices. Those who don't use an iPhone, iPad or Mac can simply opt for the Sony WF-1000XM3.