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Beats and Apple each released flagship earbuds in 2025 with one standout feature: in-ear heart rate monitoring. Since Apple owns both companies, both earbuds offer native compatibility with iOS devices and provide iOS users with Apple-exclusive features.
However, Beats' Powerbeats Pro 2 also offer more compatibility with Android devices. Each pair of earbuds features a distinct form factor, which significantly impacts their use cases and the user's experience with them.
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Still, Apple lent its capable H2 audio chip to the Powerbeats Pro 2, making the two companies' offerings more similar than ever. However, Apple still reserves several features for AirPods to ensure adequate differentiation between the two earbuds. As Apple positions the AirPods Pro 3 as both a daily companion and a fitness-forward earbud, it's essential to make an informed buying decision.
I've tested and worked out with the Powerbeats Pro 2 and the AirPods Pro 3 -- and highlighted below the most glaring differences to help you make your decision.
Specifications
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Apple AirPods Pro 3 Chip H2 H2 Battery life 10 hours of playback; up to 45 hours with charging case 8 hours of playback; up to 24 hours with charging case Audio modes Spatial Audio, Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, Adaptive EQ Spatial Audio, Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, Adaptive Audio, Live Translation, Conversation Awareness, Hearing Aid Mode IP rating IPX4 (earbuds only; not officially tested for dust ingress; sweat resistant) IP57 (earbuds and case are dust-resistant; can survive submersion up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes) Onboard controls Buttons Slide/pinch Wireless charging Yes (Qi2) Yes (Qi2) Price $250 $249
You should buy the Powerbeats Pro 2 if...
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1. Ear hooks are your thing
The Powerbeats Pro 2 feature sturdy yet flexible ear hooks, making their form factor a solid option for those who require a secure fit. The ear hooks prove especially useful during intense workouts, particularly ones filled with explosive movements like box jumping, deadlifts, or kettlebell swings. These movements can cause traditional bud-and-stem earbuds to come loose, and ear hooks mitigate that issue.
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Additionally, runners, joggers, hikers, or bikers can benefit from the ear hooks, as a more stable fit won't require you to fiddle with a loose earbud while you're in a vulnerable position. The Powerbeats Pro 2 still feature active noise cancellation and Transparency Mode, and a software update has brought Siri Interactions to the Powerbeats Pro 2, allowing iOS users to answer incoming calls and manage notifications hands-free.
2. You have a mixed-device ecosystem
Unlike Apple's AirPods, Beats' earbuds have native -- although limited -- compatibility with Android devices. Android users can access the Powerbeats Pro 2's heart rate monitoring feature, which is limited to iOS users on the AirPods Pro 3. Additionally, Android users can download the Beats app for one-touch pairing, device controls, battery notifications, and access to Locate My Beats.
3. You already have earbuds for everyday use
Although the Powerbeats Pro 2 support everyday features for iOS users, such as Siri Interactions, Transparency Mode, and Find My compatibility, their potentially obtrusive ear hooks can be impractical for daily use. Suppose you already have a pair of AirPods and don't feel compelled to upgrade them, especially if their form factor isn't conducive to your exercise routine. Still, you want in-ear heart rate monitoring. In that case, consider the Powerbeats Pro 2 for working out; their compatibility with your iPhone and more stable in-ear fit should suit your needs.
Also: Powerbeats Pro 2 vs. AirPods Pro 2: Which earbuds are best for working out?
Additionally, the Powerbeats Pro 2's heart rate monitoring -- for iOS -- functions very similarly to the AirPods Pro 2, offering iPhone Fitness app users on-screen real-time metrics and fitness tracking alongside your Apple Watch. The Powerbeats Pro 2 also track steps taken and calories burned.
You should buy the AirPods Pro 3 if...
Jada Jones/ZDNET
1. It's time to upgrade your AirPods
If your AirPods are on their last leg, it might be time to upgrade, and there's no better pair to upgrade to than the AirPods Pro 3. Apple fitted the Pro 3 earbuds with a redesigned fit for improved comfort, an updated acoustic arrangement for enhanced sound quality, improved battery life, increased dust and water resistance (IP57), a new ultra-wideband chip for improved location accuracy, and an in-ear heart rate monitor.
Also: AirPods Pro 3 vs. AirPods Pro 2: I compared the two models, and here's who should upgrade
If you're still rocking with AirPods Pro (first generation) or AirPods Pro 2 (Lightning), the AirPods Pro 3 offer considerable upgrades in all categories. Upgrading to the AirPods Pro 3 will deliver everything Beats' premium earbuds can -- sans the ear hooks and fun colors.
2. You want an all-in-one earbud
The Powerbeats Pro 2 lack features like Conversation Awareness and adaptive noise cancellation, making them less well-rounded for diverse environments and use cases. In contrast, the AirPods Pro 3 have all of these features, plus Live Translation, Hearing Aid Mode, and in-ear heart rate monitoring.
Design-wise, the Powerbeats Pro 2's noticeable ear hooks and more sporty design may make them less suitable for discreet wear. The AirPods Pro 3 and their charging case are more pocketable than the Powerbeats Pro 2, which could be more appealing to people on the go who want to quickly pop in an earbud.
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Finally, the AirPods Pro 3 are better protected against dust and water ingress than the Powerbeats Pro 2. They sport an IP57 rating compared to the Powerbeats Pro 2's IPX4, making the AirPods more capable of surviving the dust at the bottom of your work bag or accidental drops in the pool.
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