Which has better noise cancellation?

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are the stronger pick for blocking airplane and commuter noise, and reviewers single that out. The AirPods Pro 3 cancel well too, but Bose's CustomTune calibration gives it the edge.

Is the Bose worth $30 more?

Only if noise cancellation is your top priority or you want Immersive Audio with head tracking. Otherwise the AirPods Pro 3 give you two more hours of battery, an IP57 rating and a lower price.

Which lasts longer on a charge?

The AirPods Pro 3, at up to 8 hours versus up to 6 hours for the Bose. The Bose case adds recharges and supports wireless charging.

Do the Bose earbuds work well with an iPhone?

Yes. They pair over standard Bluetooth 5.3 and support multipoint, but Apple-only features like automatic device switching and precision finding are not available.

Can I wear either one in rain or at the gym?

The AirPods Pro 3 carry an IP57 rating, so dust and brief immersion are covered. The Bose are IPX4, which handles splashes and sweat but not dust or submersion.

Which is better for calls?

The Bose have four microphones in each earbud and reviewers note improved call quality on this generation. The AirPods Pro 3 use built-in mics with Apple's voice processing, which works best paired to an iPhone.

Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)

Buy the AirPods Pro 3 for iPhone users who want longer battery life, tougher water and dust protection, and a lower price. Buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) for the strongest noise cancellation on flights and for spatial audio with head tracking. On November 3, 2026 the AirPods Pro 3 cost $199.00 at Amazon, and the Bose cost $229.00 at Amazon, a $30 gap.

Today the Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) costs $99.01 less at its best price.

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