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AirPods 3 — True-wireless · 2021
Apple

AirPods 3

True-wireless · 2021

82
/ 100
From $179
VS
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds — True-wireless · 2020
Bose

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds

True-wireless · 2020

82
/ 100
From $279
Specdex verdict

Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.

In our weighted Specdex score, AirPods 3 lands at 82 and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 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 Bose QuietComfort Earbuds if…

  • ✓Compact carry
  • ✓Platform integration (brand-dependent)
  • ✓Quick pair
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Winner by scenario

Derived from the sub-score breakdown · not a separate test

Sound

Tie

Compared on the sound sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Comfort

Tie

Compared on the comfort sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Noise cancelling

Tie

Compared on the noise cancelling sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Value for money

AirPods 3

Specdex score per dollar at MSRP

AirPods 3 more score per dollar ($179 vs $279).

AirPods 3 82
vs
82 Bose QuietComfort Earbuds

Score breakdown

AirPods 3
82
anc 79
sound 81
comfort 80
battery 78
features 78
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
82
anc 79
sound 81
comfort 80
battery 78
features 78

Specs side-by-side

AirPods 3 versus Bose QuietComfort Earbuds — full spec comparison
Spec AirPods 3 Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
Type
True-wireless
True-wireless
Release year
2021
2020

AirPods 3

Pros
  • +Compact carry
  • +Platform integration (brand-dependent)
  • +Quick pair
Cons
  • −Battery life limited
  • −Fit varies by ear
  • −Case bulkier than pod

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds

Pros
  • +Compact carry
  • +Platform integration (brand-dependent)
  • +Quick pair
Cons
  • −Battery life limited
  • −Fit varies by ear
  • −Case bulkier than pod

FAQ: AirPods 3 vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds

Which is better, AirPods 3 or Bose QuietComfort Earbuds? +

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 Bose QuietComfort Earbuds worth the price? +

At $279, Bose QuietComfort Earbuds delivers a Specdex score of 82 — strongest in sound.

Does AirPods 3 or Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 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.

Which is the better value, AirPods 3 or Bose QuietComfort Earbuds? +

AirPods 3 — more score per dollar ($179 vs $279). Specdex score per dollar at MSRP.