Something else to consider is how each pair of earbuds works with the iPhone. The performance of these two modes isn't the strongest out there, but it's still better than AirPods 3 not having them at all. That said, the Studio Buds are the only earbuds in this comparison with active noise canceling and transparency mode. AirPods 3 take things a step further with full head-tracking support in Apple Music and supported video apps - adding a level of audio immersion the Studio Buds just can't match. Both are marketed as supporting spatial audio, but the Studio Buds only work with standard Dolby Atmos tracks in Apple Music. Things get a bit more heated when it comes to the earbuds' competing features. The white AirPods might be iconic, but Apple's single color offering is beyond boring at this point. Both earbuds tout an IPX4 water-resistance rating, but Beats gets the edge with its color options - offering Black, White, and Beats Red. They have customizable gel tips to get the perfect fit, no stem, and use physical buttons to control audio playback (AirPods 3 use a pressure-sensitive 'force sensor').

It's a design that works well for some people, terribly for others, and really just depends on the shape/size of someone's ear. By comparison, Beats Studio Buds are much more traditional. Just like the past two generations of AirPods before them, AirPods 3 have a one-size-fits-all design with no customizable ear tip. Beats Studio Buds and AirPods 3 are two of the most compelling earbuds on the market right now - but which is ultimately worth buying? Here are a few things interested shoppers should know.ĭesign-wise, AirPods 3 and Beats Studio Buds take slightly different approaches with their form factor. It also happens to have its own wireless earbuds in the form of Beats Studio Buds. From its bass-heavy headphones to portable speakers, it's a name that's just as synonymous as Sony or Bose.

Founded in 2006 and purchased by Apple in 2014, Beats is one of the most iconic audio brands on the planet. In addition to everything it does with its own branding, Apple is also very much focused on growing its Beats products. Combine that with the premium-focused AirPods Max and growing subscriber numbers of Apple Music, and it's clear the audio/music niche is one Apple's serious about. They were originally mocked for the bizarre design and high price, but they now dominate a niche Apple essentially helped create overnight.

AirPods are the most popular true wireless earbuds by a long shot. AirPods 3 are Apple's latest and greatest earbuds, but how do they stack up the more affordable Beats Studio Buds? In 2021, it's difficult to overstate Apple's dominance in the consumer audio space.

Beats studio vs beats studio 2