The new AirPods Pro 3 offer noticeably improved noise cancellation and sound quality—but how much do they really differ from the Pro 2? In short: a lot. We've tested both and are here to break down what's new and why it matters.

Apple's AirPods Pro 2 have hit $129.99 today on Best Buy, down from $249.99. As of writing, the AirPods are only available at this price for local pickup, and you'll need to be signed into a Best Buy account to see this option.

While the AirPods Pro 2 already offer excellent noise cancellation, the enhancements in the AirPods Pro 3 make them a better option for users who prioritize this feature. However, for those satisfied with the ANC performance of the AirPods Pro 2, the difference may not be significant enough to justify an upgrade.

Firmware updates for the AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4 have been deployed, though there are currently no details about the update's contents.

Apple today released new firmware designed for the AirPods Pro 3, the AirPods 4, and the prior-generation AirPods Pro 2. The AirPods Pro 3 firmware is 8B25, while the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 firmware is 8B21,

Apple's premium AirPods Pro 2 remain some of the best earbuds on the market, especially in the under-$200 price point.