So you're trying to decide between the three big flagship earbuds? Let me break down how the AirPods Pro 3 stack up against the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds.
Noise Cancellation - AirPods Win
This is a big shift. Bose used to own this category, but the AirPods Pro 3 now have the best noise cancellation of the three. Apple claims twice the ANC of the Pro 2, and independent tests back this up.
In real-world plane testing, the ranking went: AirPods Pro 3 first, Sony second, Bose third. The Sonys do excel at blocking high-frequency noise thanks to their foam tips, but overall, Apple takes this round.
Sound Quality - Sony Wins
If pure audio quality is your top priority, the Sony WF-1000XM5 are still the earbuds to beat. They have deeper bass, more detailed mids, and better soundstage. Music sounds more nuanced and engaging.
The AirPods Pro 3 sound good - clean and balanced - but audiophiles typically prefer Sony's tuning. Some people think the new AirPods have too much bass compared to the more neutral Pro 2.
Bose goes for warm, bass-heavy sound. Great if you like that, less great if you want accuracy.
Features - AirPods Win by a Mile
This isn't even close. The AirPods Pro 3 have heart rate monitoring, FDA-approved hearing aid functionality, Live Translation, and seamless Apple ecosystem integration.
Sony and Bose offer customizable EQ and spatial audio, but they don't have anything like Apple's health features.
However: If you use Android or care about high-resolution audio, Sony supports LDAC codec for better streaming quality. AirPods are stuck with AAC.
Price
- AirPods Pro 3: $249
- Sony WF-1000XM5: $299 (but often on sale for $250)
- Bose QC Ultra: $299
The AirPods are actually the most affordable option.
The Bottom Line
Get the AirPods Pro 3 if: You use iPhone, want the health features, or prioritize noise cancellation.
Get the Sony WF-1000XM5 if: Sound quality is everything to you, or you use Android and want LDAC support.
Get the Bose QC Ultra if: You prioritize comfort and prefer Bose's warm sound signature.
Check current AirPods Pro 3 prices