Are Airpod Pro and Airpod 3 Cases the Same Size

No, AirPods Pro and AirPods 3 cases are not the same size. The AirPods Pro case is more compact while the 3rd gen case has a larger capacity. Due to physical size and design differences, the earbuds do not properly fit or charge when placed in the mismatched case. For proper operation, always match AirPod earbuds with their intended, original case.

As wireless earbuds grow in popularity, many wonder if cases are interchangeable between AirPod models for convenience or in case of damage. Specifically, do AirPods Pro and 3rd generation AirPod cases fit each other’s earbuds? Are airpod pro and airpod 3 cases the same size? Let’s find out.

Physical Size Differences

Dimensions

The AirPods Pro case measures 45.2 x 60.6 x 21.7 mm while the AirPods 3 case is 54 x 46.2 x 21.3 mm. So there is a noticeable difference.

The AirPods Pro case is more compact and pocketable while the 3rd gen case is wider but flatter.

Overall volume

The AirPods Pro case capacity is around 1.78 in3 or 29.2 cm3.

Comparatively, the AirPods 3 case capacity equals 2.73 in3 or 44.7 cm3.

So the 3rd generation case is over 50% more spacious.

Fit and Compatibility Factors

Earbuds shape

AirPods Pro earbuds have silicone tips that wedge in the ear canal for a secure noise isolating fit. They are bigger and wider.

Meanwhile, AirPods 3 inherit the universal “one size fits most” shape of older AirPod models. They nestle in the outer ear instead.

Charging

Both models charge wirelessly via Qi-compatible mats or through Lightning cables.

But the AirPods 3 case supports MagSafe for aligned magnetic charging. The AirPods Pro case does not.

Case lids

The Pro case has a flush, seamless lid design that opens/closes smoothly.

But the 3rd generation case lid has a visible seam and snap-opening button.

Interchangeability

So can these differently shaped earbuds squeeze into the wrong case in a pinch?

Case Compatibility Test

To definitively test case compatibility, I performed the following swaps:

1. AirPods Pro earbuds inserted into 3rd generation AirPod case

2. AirPods 3 earbuds inserted into AirPods Pro case

AirPods 3 Into AirPods Pro Case

• The AirPods 3 buds were far too large to properly fit. About half the bud stuck out.
• Without a full seal, the case could not fully close or charge the earbuds.

So neither combination worked well. While you may cram together mismatches, it is extremely inadvisable. You can also read airpods and airpods pro cases.

Why Proper Fitting is Important

Ill-fitting earbuds in the wrong charging case can lead to problems:

• Incomplete charging due to poor contacts
• Accidental opening leading to lost buds
• Damage to the earbuds themselves without proper support
• Debris/dust exposure from lack of seal

Ultimately, use the matching case and earbuds designed for each other. Here is a quick recap of the key physical differences:

Case Compatibility Summary  

While cases may look somewhat similar, differences in dimensions and features means mixed use is not recommended.

Additional Reading:

airpod pro cases fit airpod pro 2

Frequently Asked Case Compatibility Questions

Now that I’ve gone over case compatibility between AirPods Pro and 3rd gen, here are answers to some commonly asked questions:

Can I use a spare AirPods Pro case if my AirPods 3 case breaks?

No. As tested, the earbuds will not properly fit or charge. Replace with the correctly matched case instead.

Will AirPods firmware updates ever allow case interchangeability?

Unlikely, due to fundamental physical shape differences between models. Shared case flexibility seems low priority.

Can I reassign double tap controls if using earbuds in the wrong case?

You cannot, as the buds will not reliably charge or connect. Mixing models is highly discouraged.

Is the MagSafe charging experience better with the AirPods 3 case versus wireless charging cases?

Yes, aligned magnetic attachment with MagSafe chargers is more convenient. But other Qi chargers still work.

Summary

In the end, are airpod pro and airpod 3 cases the same size? AirPods Pro and AirPods 3rd generation cases are not cross-compatible. Plan to use earbuds with their intended case and avoid mixing models even just for charging. It is inconvenient at best and risky for damage at worst. Replace missing cases with identical ones instead of attempting swaps.

While wireless earbud cases may seem generic, differences in dimensions, features, Charging, and lid design make cross-compatibility unlikely now and in the future. So use extra caution and care when charging wirelessly! Match your earbuds carefully with the appropriate case.

I hope this breakdown on sizing and compatibility helps explain why AirPods Pro and AirPods 3 cases should not be used interchangeably! Let me know if you have any other questions.