Quick takeaway
Apple AirPods 3rd Generation and Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation USB-C are very close in this matchup. When the overall score is tied, the right choice usually comes down to price, review depth, and which spec wins matter most for your use case.
Choose Apple AirPods 3rd Generation if...
Pick Apple AirPods 3rd Generation if its current price, brand, or design fits your shortlist better than Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation USB-C.
Choose Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation USB-C if...
Pick Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation USB-C if bluetooth version and water resistance are the reasons you are shopping in this category. It currently costs about $70.00 more, so make sure those wins matter to you.