Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs. MDHearingAid Neo XS

The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are wireless earbuds that offer hearing aid functionality. Our tests show they effectively amplify speech in everyday situations. While background noise can be challenging, proper tuning and reducing ambient noise reduction pushes the AirPods Pro 3 closer to being a truly competitive OTC hearing aid.

Neo XS is an instant-fit in-ear OTC hearing aid that offers improvements in MDHearing's product line in terms of rechargeable battery life, audio processing, and size. However, our lab testing found its performance underwhelming.

Apple AirPods Pro 3 achieved a SoundScore of 3.38/5 and a SoundGrade of B in HearAdvisor lab testing. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.47/5.

MDHearing Neo XS achieved a SoundScore of 2.47/5 and a SoundGrade of C in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #47 of 61 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.47/5.

The build quality is solid with a pocket-worthy portable case. AirPods 3 also have a slightly improved IP57 rating meaning they should offer better protection from debris and moisture. AirPods commonly last around 2-3 years.

Neo XS do not have an ingress rating but they appear to be well built. The charging case feels sturdy and should offer good protection when Neo XS are recharging or otherwise not in use.

Airpods Pro 3 offer around 10 hours of use per charge with their Hearing Aid feature. This is an improvement over the previous generation. While this still may not be enough for all-day use, recharge time is fast with several quick-charge options.

Neo XS offers internal rechargeable batteries lasting up to 18 hours. This should be enough to get you through your day without needing a recharge.

I have found Bluetooth to work almost flawlessly on iPhones, offering a solid connection every time. I can't speak for Android devices though Apple reports they are fully compatible with other Bluetooth devices.

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AirPods Pro 3 offer impressive and useful features to aid speech clarity. I particularly like the ability to take an app based hearing test, or directly upload hearing thresholds. While the menu system is not user-friendly, you also have other options for personalizing your experience such as active noise cancellation.

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AirPods Pro 3 are generally comfortable, though my initial impressions favor the fit of the previous Gen 2. With that said, Apple claims to have improved the overall fit with improved ergonomics and new foam-infused ear tips.

Neo XS are relatively comfortable in ear. However, using the button caused minor discomfort as it required some force which pushed the hearing aid deeper into my ear.

AirPods Pro are unmistakably Apple with their sleek, bright white, aesthetic. You will want to look elsewhere if you are searching for a discrete hearing solution. Furthermore, earbuds are commonly associated with being distracted or disconnected and people will not know that you are using them as hearing aids to stay present and engaged in conversation.

Neo XS are smaller than other MDHearing aids and many OTC products. If you are interested in discrete hearing aids Neo XS are nearly invisible in your ears.

Apple AirPods Pro 3 has a value score of 5.0/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

MDHearing Neo XS has a value score of 3.4/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

I find Bluetooth pairing and general use exceptionally easy. However, navigating the deeper personalization features, and touch controls, could be more user friendly.

Neo XS are relatively small hearing aids which may be difficult for individuals with vision and or dexterity issues. This should not be a problem for most but MDHearing does offer assistance from licensed professionals if needed.

You can receive technical support from Apple, but no audiologic support is offered at this time. You may be able to find a hearing care provider willing to assist with programming your AirPods Pro based on your needs.

MDHearing does not offer in-person support or remote programming. You do however receive free lifetime phone and online help from their licensed hearing professionals. This is a nice offering especially if you are new to hearing aids.