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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) vs OnePlus Buds Ace 3: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) - Great overall at around $125.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C)
Sound8.5
Noise cancelling9.0
Battery7.5
Calls8.0
Value7.5
OnePlus Buds Ace 3
Sound7.5
Noise cancelling8.0
Battery8.5
Calls7.0
Value8.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C) vs OnePlus Buds Ace 3
SpecApple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C)OnePlus Buds Ace 3
TypeTrue WirelessTrue Wireless
Price (USD)$125-
HearWiki score84 / 100 · Great76 / 100 · Great
Released20222026
Audio
Driverdynamic10.4mm woofer + 6mm tweeter dual drivers
Driver size11 mm12 mm
Drivers per side21
Frequency response20 Hz - 20,000 Hz-
Impedance16 Ω-
Sensitivity100 dB/mW-
Wireless
Bluetooth5.35.3
Bluetooth version5.35.3
CodecsSBC, AACSBC, AAC, LHDC
Multipoint pairingNoYes
Latency-47 ms
Battery
Battery life-13 h
Battery life (ANC on)-6.5 h
Battery incl. case30 h54 h
Full charge time-90 min
Quick charge-5 min = 10 h
Wireless chargingYesNo
Features
Active noise cancelling-Yes
ANC typeadaptivehybrid
Transparency modeYesYes
Companion appYesNo
Custom EQNoNo
Wear detectionYesNo
Controlsbothtouch
Voice assistantSiri-
Design
Weight10.6 g4.8 g
Case weight50.8 g34.2 g
Water resistanceIP54IP55
FoldableNo-
Detachable cableNo-
USB-CYesYes
Model code-OnePlus Buds 3
Calls
Microphones-3
Call noise reduction-AI noise reduction

What reviewers said

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, USB-C)

These wireless earbuds deliver strong active noise cancellation and a natural-sounding transparency mode, making them a solid pick for Apple users. With around 6 hours of playback per charge and a case that boosts total listening time to 30 hours, they offer dependable daily use. The IP54 rating adds some protection against sweat and splashes, while Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a stable connection for most devices.

  • Pro:Excellent active noise cancellation
  • Pro:Natural transparency mode for ambient awareness
  • Pro:Decent battery life with case
  • Con:No multipoint connection
  • Con:Limited to AAC codec
  • Con:No custom EQ in app

OnePlus Buds Ace 3

The OnePlus Buds Ace 3 are feature-packed true wireless earbuds that prioritize strong noise cancellation, long battery life, and low-latency gaming performance. With dual drivers, LHDC support, and a durable IP55 build, they offer a compelling package for users who want versatile everyday use without breaking the bank. The lack of app support and custom EQ may limit fine-tuning, but the core experience is solid and value-oriented.

  • Pro:Powerful 55dB active noise cancellation
  • Pro:Excellent total battery life of 54 hours with case
  • Pro:Low 47ms latency ideal for gaming
  • Con:No companion app for firmware updates or EQ
  • Con:No wear detection sensor
  • Con:Charging case adds noticeable weight

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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