AirPods Pro vs. Sony WH-1000XM3: A Frequent Traveler's Guide to Superior Headphones

I’m not sure there’s a more important travel accessory to me than a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones. To block out airport announcements, crying babies, engine noise, and everything else in between — I never go on a trip without them.

In this personal exploration, we'll dive into a comparison of Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and the older Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones, examining the pros and cons of each to help you decide which one suits your travel style best.

Noise Cancellation

AirPods Pro

The AirPods Pro offer a decent noise cancellation experience, carving out a serene space amidst the chaos of travel. People rave about the noise cancellation, but I find it only cuts about 50-60% of audible noise.

Sony WH-1000XM3

Sony takes the lead here, silencing the world around me with an impressive 80-90% noise cancellation. These headphones become my sanctuary in bustling airports and noisy planes.

Portability & Convenience

AirPods Pro

In terms of portability, the AirPods Pro are perfectly pocket-sized. Their lightweight design and intuitive controls make them perfect for those spontaneous getaways where packing light is key. It’s also nice that the case doubles as a way to charge the AirPods.

Sony WH-1000XM3

Though not as pocket-friendly, the Sony headphones make up for it with an audio experience that's worth the extra space in my bag. I can still fold them and stick them in a smaller compartment in my backpack. Plus, I’ll usually wear them around my neck. They've become my go-to for longer journeys where audio quality is paramount.

Controls & Connectivity

AirPods Pro

The seamless integration with my iPhone and MacBook, coupled with intuitive controls, has made the AirPods Pro a joy to use. If I switch from my MacBook to my iPhone, the Airpods will automatically switch too — and vice-versa. It’s a big plus if you’re fully in the Apple ecosystem.

Sony WH-1000XM3

Manual pairing is a small price to pay for the impressive 20-30 hours of battery life the Sony headphones provide. Perfect for those extended travel days when you want to stay immersed without having to worry about charging.

Battery Life

AirPods Pro

Here's where the AirPods Pro lose some points for me. While the case provides multiple charges, the need to put the earbuds back every 4-6 hours can be inconvenient, especially when you’re watching a movie mid-flight.

Sony WH-1000XM3

Sony's extended battery life means fewer interruptions. It's a relief not to constantly monitor the battery level or fumble for a charging case, especially during those long-haul flights.

Entertainment Compatibility

AirPods Pro

In-flight entertainment requires an additional accessory like the AirFly. It's an extra thing to carry and charge, adding another gadget that I have to remember to pack.

Sony WH-1000XM3

I usually bring the TRS cable for my headphones with me, especially if I know I’m going to be editing any video on my trip. It plugs into all the in-flight entertainment systems and there are no latency issues because of the wired connection.

The Verdict

Short Trips

When it's all about packing light, my AirPods Pro are the winners. They're the ideal companion for quick getaways, providing just the right balance of convenience and performance. I wouldn’t hesitate to reach for these on a weekend trip, or even a weeklong trip where I don’t need to do any video editing.

Extended Journeys

For those marathon travel sessions, especially those involving long-haul flights (6+ hours), the Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones are my favourite. The superior noise cancellation, extended battery life, and hassle-free entertainment compatibility make them my go-to for immersive and uninterrupted audio.

Conclusion

In my quest for the perfect travel companion, both the AirPods Pro and the Sony WH-1000XM3 have proven their worth. Each has its strengths, and my choice depends on the nature of my trip. Whether it's the nimble convenience of the AirPods Pro or the immersive experience provided by the Sony WH-1000XM3, these headphones have become indispensable companions, transforming my travels into a symphony of sound and silence.