Apple's AirPods 5 (2026) bring Active Noise Cancellation to its $129 earbuds for the first time. The $149 AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case adds longer battery life, volume controls on the stems, and a case speaker for Find My. The AirPods Pro 3 (2025) cost $249 and offer a sealed in-ear fit, substantially better noise cancellation, and hearing and workout features.

The AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case are the best choice for most buyers. For $20 more than the base model, you get an extra hour of listening time per charge with ANC, volume swipes on the stems, wireless charging, and a speaker that makes a misplaced case easier to find. Choose the $129 model if the lowest price matters most and you are content with its shorter battery life and USB-C-only charging case.

However, the AirPods Pro 3 are worth the extra $100 over the higher-end AirPods 5 if noise cancellation is your priority and you prefer a snug in-ear fit. Apple says they provide up to three times as much ANC as the AirPods 5, since the ear tips create a physical seal. Their eight-hour listening time per charge is particularly useful on long journeys.

The AirPods Pro 3 are also the clear choice if you want their hearing health features or heart rate sensing during workouts without relying on an Apple Watch. Their charging case adds Precision Finding, too. If you dislike silicone ear tips, the AirPods 5 let you keep the open-ear fit while getting nearly all of the everyday listening features shared by the Pro model.

AirPods frequently receive discounts from third-party retailers, which can narrow the AirPods Pro 3's $100 list-price premium over the $149 AirPods 5. Check the latest prices using our Deals roundup before buying.