Comparing AirPods Pro 3 and Powerbeats Pro 2: Heart Rate Monitors in Your Ears

In 2025, Beats and Apple each introduced their top-tier earbuds, notably equipped with a distinctive feature: in-ear heart rate sensors. As both companies fall under Apple's ownership, these earbuds excel when paired with iOS devices, offering unique functionalities for Apple users.

Each pair delivers a unique design that influences how they fit into different lifestyles. While Apple shares its capable audio technology across both earbuds, enhancing similarities, certain features remain exclusive to the AirPods to keep them distinct.

I've put both the Powerbeats Pro 2 and the AirPods Pro 3 through their paces, focusing on workouts and daily usage. My findings below highlight the basic contrasts to aid your purchasing decision.

Why Choose Powerbeats Pro 2?

1. Prefer ear hooks?

The Powerbeats Pro 2 are crafted with firm yet adaptable ear hooks, making them a reliable choice for those needing a secure fit. This design particularly benefits those engaging in vigorous activities such as jumping and weightlifting, where regular earbuds might dislodge.

If you're into running, hiking, or biking, these hooks are invaluable, making adjustments unnecessary even during intense activities. Even though the Powerbeats include features like active noise cancellation, the added hands-free Siri capabilities for iOS users are a significant plus.

2. Use multiple devices

Powerbeats Pro 2 offer some native functionality with Android, beyond what's available with Apple's AirPods. This means Android users can make the most of features like heart rate monitoring, simplified pairing, device management, and more via the Beats App.

3. Already have everyday earbuds?

Although Powerbeats Pro 2 integrate several iOS features, their prominent ear hooks might not be ideal for casual use. If you already own a comfy pair of AirPods but want heart rate tracking for workouts, Powerbeats are the way to go due to their secure fit and functionality.

The heart monitoring capabilities of Powerbeats Pro 2 mirror those of AirPods when linked with iOS, giving real-time fitness data on your iPhone, from heart rate to calories burned, complementing Apple's ecosystem nicely.

Why Choose AirPods Pro 3?

1. Time for an upgrade?

If your old AirPods are reaching retirement, the AirPods Pro 3 make for a worthwhile upgrade. They come with a new fit for added comfort, superior sound quality, extended battery life, and better resistance to dust and water.

More advanced than its predecessors and some competitors, the AirPods Pro 3 integrate cutting-edge features, like heart rate monitoring, without the need for hooks or flashy colors.

2. Seeking multifunctional earbuds?

The AirPods Pro 3 excel with features including adaptive noise cancellation and real-time translation that Powerbeats Pro 2 lack, making them extremely versatile.

Stylish and compact, the AirPods are easy to carry around, delivering not just ease of use but also enhanced protection against environmental elements with their superior IP57 rating compared to the Powerbeats' IPX4.

Alternative Options

For those not thrilled by in-ear heart tracking, Apple's previous AirPods Pro 2 still provide full access to many other advanced features of the AirPods lineup.