Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs. Starkey Edge AI

Apple AirPods Pro 3 combine excellent earbud features with adjustable hearing support and up to 10 hours in Hearing Aid mode. Fit, comfort, battery life, and controls remain important limitations.

Edge AI is equipped with Starkey's all-new G2 Neuro Processor with an integrated neural processing unit that classifies complex soundscapes, enhances speech, and reduces noise in real-time using advanced AI.

Apple AirPods Pro 3 achieved a SoundScore of 3.3/5 and a SoundGrade of B in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #49 of 65 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.68/5.

Starkey Edge AI RIC achieved a SoundScore of 4.3/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #20 of 39 Prescription Hearing Aid devices tested. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 4.19/5.

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.

Edge AI have excellent build quality as evidenced by their IP68 ingress rating. However, the portable charging case does not feel as robust compared to other prescription hearing aid brands.

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.

Edge AI offers an impressive 51 hour battery life on a single charge, with a quick recharge time of just 3.5 hours. Their rechargeable battery outperforms most products available today.

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.

Edge AI hearing aids are Bluetooth compatible with both iOS and Android devices, allowing for audio streaming and hands-free calling.

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.

The My Starkey app features an updated look and offers useful features like sound customization and health tracking. However, user reviews indicate that connection issues can occur.

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.

Edge AI are capable of excellent comfort which can be personalized by your hearing care provider.

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.

I find Edge AI hearing aids similar to their previous generation Genesis, and overall more modern and sleek compared to the previous Evolv AI generation. Starkey also offers various color choices and the fitting can be adjusted to meet your needs and preferences.

Apple AirPods Pro 3 has a value score of 4.9/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Starkey Edge AI RIC has a value score of 3.2/5 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.

Edge AI and the associated app are very easy to use, though the receiver-in-ear style may require some initial practice.

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.

You should receive quality hearing care and support from your provider. Starkey also offers technical support and provides a Telehear remote services app, connecting your with your provider for remote care.