Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs. Starkey Omega AI+
Check out our comparison of the Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Starkey Omega AI+. Listen to audio samples and see how the two hearing aids differ in terms of sound performance, features, accessories, and more.
Product Overview
Expert Ratings
Compare comprehensive test results and expert opinions.
HearingTracker Score
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.
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HearAdvisor SoundScore
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.
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Build Quality
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.
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Battery
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.
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Bluetooth
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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App Features
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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Comfort
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.
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Design
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.
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Value
Apple AirPods Pro 3 has a value score of 4.9/5 based on lab performance and public display price.
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Handling
I find Bluetooth pairing and general use exceptionally easy. However, navigating the deeper personalization features, and touch controls, could be more user friendly.
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Pro Support
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.
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Lab Recordings
Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.
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Lab recordings not yet available
Lab recordings not yet available
HearingTracker partners with HearAdvisor to provide recordings and performance data from an acoustic laboratory that follows standard scientific procedures. All hearing aids are fitted and performance-tested for mild sloping to moderate hearing loss. All audio samples cutoff above 10kHz.
Accessories
Compatible accessories for each hearing aid
StarLink Charger 3.0
Charging station and carrying case for Omega AI+ mRIC R and RIC RT. Includes Turbo Charge.
StarLink Premium Charger 3.0+1
Charging station and carrying case with onboard battery for Omega AI+ mRIC R and RIC RT. Includes Turbo Charge.
StarLink Edge LE Adapter
Wireless accessory listed for Omega AI+; part P00018678. The supplied guide does not explain its operation.
StarLink Remote Control 2.0
The Starkey StarLink Remote Control 2.0 is designed to control compatible 2.4 GHz hearing aids. Users can adjust volume, switch programs, and activate features like Edge Mode or Comfort Boost.
StarLink Edge Remote Microphone
Remote microphone compatible with Omega AI hearing aids using Bluetooth LE Audio.
StarLink Edge Table Microphone
Table microphone compatible with Omega AI hearing aids for group conversations.
My Starkey
Designed with the input of hearing aid wearers, My Starkey pairs with select Starkey hearing aids to help you enjoy greater listening moments, improved well-being, and easier everyday living — all from the palm of your hand.
Hear Share
Works with My Starkey to share hearing aid usage, activity progress, and safety information with people chosen by the wearer.
StarLink Edge TV Streamer
Future-proof and Auracast ready, our Edge TV Streamer is 60% smaller than previous Starkey streamers and uses Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio protocol to stream audio straight from a TV to paired Edge AI hearing aids.
Hardware
- Bluetooth® (A2DP)
- LC3
- Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
- Bluetooth® Auracast™
- Bluetooth® (HFP)
- Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
- Play/Pause
- Audio passthrough on/off
- Accept/end calls
- Siri
Software Features
- Always-on
- Automatic
- User Control
- Personalization
- App Control
- Tuned based on hearing test through device
- Tuned based on audio preference selections
- Tuned by user directly