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

AirPods Pro 3 & Pixel Buds Pro 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.

Why Do I Recommend The AirPods Pro 3?

  • The AirPods Pro 3 comes with the Apple H3 chip for lower latency, faster audio processing, and more stable Bluetooth connections during streaming and calls, whereas the Pixel Buds Pro uses a Google custom audio SoC.
  • AirPods Pro 3 features Bluetooth 5.4 for improved connection stability, reduced interference, and more efficient power usage in crowded wireless environments, while the Pixel Buds Pro uses Bluetooth 5.0.
  • It supports Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for a more immersive and directionally accurate listening experience when watching videos or using compatible apps, whereas the Pixel Buds Pro supports spatial audio without head tracking.
  • The AirPods Pro 3 includes Adaptive ANC for continuously adjusting noise cancellation levels based on surrounding noise conditions to maintain consistent audio clarity, while the Pixel Buds Pro uses a fixed hybrid ANC system.
  • AirPods Pro 3 comes with a U1 chip for Precision Finding that allows exact location tracking of the case with directional guidance and distance indicators, whereas the Pixel Buds Pro has no ultra-wideband tracking hardware.
  • It features a charging case with a built-in speaker for audible alerts during locating, pairing, and battery notifications, while the Pixel Buds Pro case has no integrated speaker.
  • The AirPods Pro 3 supports MagSafe charging for secure magnetic alignment and consistent wireless charging placement on compatible chargers, while the Pixel Buds Pro supports standard Qi charging without magnetic alignment.
  • AirPods Pro 3 includes IP54 rating with dust resistance for improved durability in dusty environments such as outdoor use or travel, whereas the Pixel Buds Pro has an IPX4 rating with no dust protection.

Maybe the Pixel Buds Pro 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
ChipsetApple H2Google custom audio SoC
Bluetooth Version5.45.0
ANC TypeAdaptive ANCHybrid ANC
Transparency ModeAdaptive TransparencyTransparency Mode
Spatial AudioPersonalized + head trackingSpatial audio
Audio CodecAAC, Adaptive AudioSBC, AAC
Total Battery (with Case)30 hours20 hours
Wireless ChargingMagSafe, QiQi
Case SpeakerYesNo
UWB ChipApple U1None
MultipointApple auto-switchBluetooth multipoint
Voice AssistantSiriGoogle Assistant
Ear Tip SizesXS, S, M, LS, M, L
Water Resistance (Earbuds)IP54IPX4
Dust ResistanceYesNo
Case Dimensions45.2 × 60.6 × 21.7 mm63 × 50 × 25 mm
Driver TypeHigh-excursion dynamic driver11 mm dynamic driver
Touch ControlsForce sensor + swipeCapacitive touch
Volume ControlSwipe gestureSwipe gesture
Find FeaturePrecision FindingFind My Device
Case Charging TypeWired + MagSafe + QiWired + Qi
Auto SwitchingApple ecosystem auto-switchMultipoint
Latency OptimizationApple low-latencyStandard Bluetooth latency
Adaptive Audio ModeYesNo
Conversation AwarenessYesNo
PriceCheck AirPods Pro 3 PriceCheck Pixel Buds Pro Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Active Noise Cancellation: Both earbuds feature ANC technology that reduces background noise using built-in microphones and processing algorithms. This allows for a more focused listening experience in environments like public transport, offices, or crowded areas.
  • Transparency Mode: Each model includes a transparency mode that lets external sound pass through while wearing the earbuds. This is useful for staying aware of surroundings during conversations, commuting, or walking outdoors.
  • In-Ear Design: Both earbuds use an in-ear form factor that fits inside the ear canal. This design helps with passive noise isolation and ensures a secure fit for daily use.
  • Silicone Ear Tips: Both devices include interchangeable silicone ear tips to accommodate different ear sizes. This improves comfort and helps create a proper seal for better audio performance and noise isolation.
  • True Wireless (TWS): Both are fully wireless earbuds with no cables connecting the two sides. This provides greater freedom of movement and convenience during activities like workouts or commuting.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Each model connects to devices using Bluetooth technology. This ensures compatibility with smartphones, tablets, and laptops across different platforms.
  • Touch Controls: Both earbuds support touch-based controls for managing playback, calls, and other functions. This allows users to interact with their audio without needing to reach for their phone.
  • Built-in Microphones: Both models include multiple microphones for calls and voice commands. These microphones help capture voice clearly and assist with features like noise cancellation and assistant interaction.
  • Voice Assistant Support: Each device supports a voice assistant that can be activated hands-free or through touch controls. This enables tasks like sending messages, checking weather, or controlling smart home devices.
  • Wireless Charging: Both charging cases support wireless charging using Qi-compatible pads. This adds convenience by removing the need for cables when recharging the case.
  • USB-C Charging: Both models use a USB-C port for wired charging. This standard provides faster charging speeds and universal compatibility with modern charging accessories.
  • Fast Charging: Each device supports quick charging that provides usable playback time within minutes of charging. This is useful when the battery is low and immediate use is needed.
  • Water Resistance: Both earbuds include water resistance protection against sweat and light splashes. This makes them suitable for workouts and outdoor use in mild weather conditions.
  • Automatic Ear Detection: Both earbuds can detect when they are placed in or removed from the ears. This enables automatic play and pause functionality, improving usability and conserving battery life.
  • Charging Case Included: Both products come with a dedicated charging case that stores and recharges the earbuds. This extends total listening time and provides portability.
  • Firmware Updates: Both devices support firmware updates through their respective apps. This allows performance improvements, bug fixes, and new features to be added over time.
  • App Support: Each model has a companion app that allows users to customize settings such as controls, sound profiles, and device management. This enhances personalization and control over the listening experience.
  • Stereo Audio: Both earbuds deliver stereo sound with separate left and right channels. This provides a balanced and immersive listening experience for music, videos, and calls.

Common Features

FeatureAirPods Pro 3Pixel Buds Pro
Active Noise CancellationYesYes
Transparency ModeYesYes
In-Ear DesignYesYes
Silicone Ear TipsYesYes
True Wireless (TWS)YesYes
Bluetooth ConnectivityYesYes
Touch ControlsYesYes
Built-in MicrophonesYesYes
Voice Assistant SupportYesYes
Wireless ChargingYesYes
USB-C ChargingYesYes
Fast ChargingYesYes
Water ResistanceYesYes
Automatic Ear DetectionYesYes
Charging Case IncludedYesYes
Firmware UpdatesYesYes
App SupportYesYes
Stereo AudioYesYes
Price Check AirPods Pro 3 Price
Check Pixel Buds Pro Price

FAQ

Are AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro compatible with both Android and iOS devices?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both use Bluetooth connectivity, so they can connect to Android and iOS devices. AirPods Pro 3 integrates more deeply with Apple devices, while Pixel Buds Pro integrates more fully with Android and Google services.

Do both earbuds support active noise cancellation?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both include active noise cancellation to reduce external sounds. The implementation differs, but both are designed to create a quieter listening environment.

Can both models be used for phone calls with clear voice quality?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both include multiple microphones and noise-reduction processing for voice calls. This allows clearer communication even in environments with background noise.

Do AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro support wireless charging?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both support wireless charging through Qi-compatible charging pads. This allows users to recharge the case without using a cable.

Is there a transparency mode available on both devices?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both include a transparency mode that allows outside sound to be heard while wearing the earbuds. This is useful for awareness in public or during conversations.

Do both earbuds support voice assistants?
AirPods Pro 3 supports Siri, while Pixel Buds Pro supports Google Assistant. Both allow hands-free commands for tasks like messaging, navigation, and controlling smart devices.

Can both earbuds automatically pause when removed from the ears?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both include automatic ear detection sensors. These sensors pause audio when the earbuds are removed and resume playback when reinserted.

Are the earbuds suitable for workouts or outdoor use?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both include water resistance for protection against sweat and light splashes. This makes them usable during exercise or light outdoor conditions.

Do both models come with different ear tip sizes?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both include multiple silicone ear tip sizes. This allows users to choose a fit that improves comfort and sound isolation.

Can both earbuds connect to laptops and tablets?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both support standard Bluetooth pairing, enabling connection to laptops, tablets, and other compatible devices. This makes them versatile across different use cases.

Do both support touch controls for playback and calls?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both allow users to control music, calls, and other functions using touch gestures. This eliminates the need to use the connected device frequently.

Is fast charging available on both earbuds?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both support fast charging that provides usable playback time after a short charging period. This is useful when the battery is low and time is limited.

Do both earbuds come with a charging case?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both include a charging case that stores and recharges the earbuds. The case extends total listening time and improves portability.

Can users customize settings through an app on both devices?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both have companion apps or system integrations that allow customization of controls, sound settings, and device features. This helps tailor the experience to user preferences.

Do both earbuds support stereo sound for music and videos?
AirPods Pro 3 and Pixel Buds Pro both deliver stereo audio with separate left and right channels. This provides a balanced and immersive listening experience across different types of media.