According to the source review by CNET, the Apple AirPods Pro 3 can measure heart rate using an optical sensor embedded in the earbuds. The reviewer conducted a comparison between the AirPods Pro 3, the Apple Watch Series 11, and a Polar chest strap to assess the reliability of the earbuds’ heart rate monitoring during workouts. While the Apple Watch still outperforms in accuracy, the AirPods provided impressive results compared to other smartwatches tested previously.
- Ear-based heart rate sensing offers stability and proximity benefits over wrist wearables
- AirPods Pro 3 heart rate accuracy approaches but does not exceed Apple Watch Series 11
- Polar chest strap remains gold standard for direct heart electrical signal measurement
Product angle
The CNET review highlights Apple’s innovation in embedding a heart rate sensor into the AirPods Pro 3, leveraging optical sensing technology historically used in wrist devices. Apple utilized extensive health study data to develop the sensor, aiming to enable health tracking from a new, less common place—the ear canal. This approach benefits from minimal movement compared to the wrist and somewhat closer proximity to the heart, which may improve measurement stability during activity.
Despite the hardware constraints of fitting a sensor inside small earbuds, the AirPods deliver heart rate tracking that rivals many smartwatches beyond the Apple Watch. The review’s side-by-side testing with the Apple Watch Series 11 and the Polar chest strap benchmark indicated that while the AirPods are not as precise as the industry-leading watch, they surpass other wearable competitors tested in terms of measurement accuracy.
Best for / avoid if
The AirPods Pro 3 are best suited for fitness enthusiasts and casual users who want an unobtrusive way to track their heart rate without switching to a wrist-worn device. Given their stable fit and position near the heart, wearers exercising with these earbuds can expect reliable pulse readings for general workout monitoring and recovery insights, especially if they already use AirPods for audio.
However, users who require clinical-grade heart rate precision or continuous 24/7 monitoring may find the earbuds less suitable compared to chest strap monitors or high-end smartwatches like the Apple Watch Series 11. Additionally, those unfamiliar with ear-based sensors or who prefer detailed health metrics might want to avoid relying solely on AirPods for monitoring serious health conditions.
Pricing and alternatives to check
While the review did not specify pricing details for the AirPods Pro 3’s heart rate tracking feature, potential buyers should consider this functionality as an added benefit to an already premium-priced audio accessory. Users evaluating heart rate tracking solutions should weigh whether combining wireless earbuds with fitness tracking justifies the investment compared to dedicated wearables.
Alternatives to consider include the Apple Watch Series 11, recognized as the top smartwatch for heart rate accuracy in the source testing, and the Polar H10 chest strap, which serves as the gold standard for electrical heart signal measurement. Other wearable options such as smart rings and newer fitness trackers might also be evaluated depending on user preference for form factor and sensor location.