AirPods 3
True-wireless · 2021
Beats Studio Buds + · Rose Gold
True-wireless · 2023
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, AirPods 3 lands at 82 and Beats Studio Buds + · Rose Gold at 82. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick AirPods 3 if…
- ✓Compact carry
- ✓Platform integration (brand-dependent)
- ✓Quick pair
Pick Beats Studio Buds + · Rose Gold if…
- ✓Compact carry
- ✓Platform integration (brand-dependent)
- ✓Quick pair
Winner by scenario
Derived from the sub-score breakdown · not a separate testSound
TieCompared on the sound sub-score
Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.
Comfort
TieCompared on the comfort sub-score
Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.
Noise cancelling
TieCompared on the noise cancelling sub-score
Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.
Value for money
TieSpecdex score per dollar at MSRP
Effectively tied — similar score-per-dollar at MSRP.
Score breakdown
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | AirPods 3 | Beats Studio Buds + · Rose Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Type | True-wireless | True-wireless |
| Release year | 2021 | 2023 |
AirPods 3
- +Compact carry
- +Platform integration (brand-dependent)
- +Quick pair
- −Battery life limited
- −Fit varies by ear
- −Case bulkier than pod
Beats Studio Buds + · Rose Gold
- +Compact carry
- +Platform integration (brand-dependent)
- +Quick pair
- −Battery life limited
- −Fit varies by ear
- −Case bulkier than pod
FAQ: AirPods 3 vs Beats Studio Buds + · Rose Gold
Which is better, AirPods 3 or Beats Studio Buds + · Rose Gold? +
Both score 82 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is AirPods 3 worth the price? +
At $179, AirPods 3 delivers a Specdex score of 82 — strongest in sound.
Is Beats Studio Buds + · Rose Gold worth the price? +
At $169, Beats Studio Buds + · Rose Gold delivers a Specdex score of 82 — strongest in sound.
Does AirPods 3 or Beats Studio Buds + · Rose Gold last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.