TL;DR
WIRED reports Best Buy has discounted the AirPods Pro 3 by $50, listing them at about $200. The review highlights improved noise isolation, a punchier sound profile, tighter fit, and Apple-specific features like real-time translation when paired with an iPhone running Apple Intelligence.
What happened
WIRED's gear coverage notes that Best Buy has marked the Apple AirPods Pro 3 down by $50, bringing the earbuds to roughly $200. The site’s reviewer emphasizes sizable upgrades over prior generations, particularly in active noise cancellation and sound isolation — comparisons are made to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2. The AirPods Pro 3 deliver pronounced highs and lows and are described as especially effective for genres such as pop, hip-hop and bright jazz, and for active use like workouts or yard work. Hardware and software integration enables features like real-time translation when used with an iPhone running Apple Intelligence, plus heartrate sensing, fast pairing and Siri support. Physical changes include a slightly altered fit that may suit smaller ears better, thicker foam-layered ear tips for improved isolation, and an IP57 durability rating. The reviewer also notes that many features are most meaningful when paired with iOS and Mac devices.
Why it matters
- The $50 reduction lowers the entry cost for Apple’s latest earbuds, potentially prompting upgrades.
- Improvements to ANC and ear-tip design aim to address fit and isolation complaints from previous models.
- Built-in sensors and Apple-specific features consolidate multiple functions in one accessory.
- The full feature set relies on Apple ecosystem integration, affecting value for non‑Apple users.
Key facts
- WIRED reports Best Buy has the AirPods Pro 3 discounted by $50 to around $200.
- Reviewer compared the improved noise cancellation and isolation to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2.
- Sound profile emphasizes boosted highs and lows; reviewer highlighted suitability for pop, hip-hop and bright jazz.
- Features include real-time translation when paired with an iPhone that has Apple Intelligence, heartrate sensing, quick pairing and Siri compatibility.
- Physical updates include a tweaked fit for smaller ears and thicker ear tips with a foam layer for better isolation.
- The case and earbuds carry an IP57 rating for dust and water resistance.
- Reviewer noted the feature set is most useful with iPhone, iPad or Mac — less compelling for Android users.
- WIRED’s reviewer described the AirPods Pro 3 as a meaningful upgrade over earlier AirPods generations, including the Pro 2.
What to watch next
- How long Best Buy will maintain the $200 price — not confirmed in the source.
- Whether other retailers will offer matching or lower discounts — not confirmed in the source.
- Customer reaction to the fit and foam ear tips after wider usage — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Active noise cancelling (ANC): A technology in headphones and earbuds that uses microphones and processing to reduce unwanted ambient sounds.
- IP57 rating: A durability classification indicating protection against dust ingress and short-term immersion in water to a limited depth.
- Apple Intelligence: Apple’s suite of on-device and cloud-assisted AI features intended to enhance services such as translation, on compatible Apple devices.
- Real-time translation: A feature that converts spoken words from one language to another immediately, often requiring a paired device and supporting software.
Reader FAQ
How much is the discount and where?
WIRED reports Best Buy has the AirPods Pro 3 reduced by $50 to about $200.
Do these features work on Android phones?
The article says many of the AirPods Pro 3’s features are most meaningful when used with iPhone, iPad or Mac, implying limited benefit on Android.
Are the AirPods Pro 3 water resistant?
Yes — the review states the earbuds have an IP57 rating.
Is battery life discussed?
not confirmed in the source
Is this a worthwhile upgrade from AirPods Pro 2?
According to the reviewer, the Pro 3 represent a notable upgrade and can be worth upgrading from the Pro 2.
BRAD BOURQUE GEAR JAN 7, 2026 5:16 PM The Apple AirPods Pro 3 Are $50 Off Snag a relatively rare discount on Apple's finest earbuds at Best Buy. COURTESY OF…
Sources
- The Apple AirPods Pro 3 Are $50 Off
- The AirPods Pro 3 just dropped below $200 for the first time
- Best Buy has launched a last-minute savings sale
- 50% Off or More AirPods Deals
Related posts
- The iOS 26 settings I changed immediately on my iPhone — quick tweaks
- Apple TV comedy The Studio earns most acting nominations at Actor Awards
- Amazfit’s stylish budget tracker nears its lowest price to date