When a brand-new gadget lands in your hands, it’s natural to start wondering how much of your old stuff you can still keep around. If you’ve just picked up the sleek new AirPods Pro 3 and are staring at your old AirPods Pro case cover, you’re probably thinking, “Hey, can I still use this?” Let’s break it down.
AirPods Pro vs AirPods Pro 3 Case Design
The first thing to know is that the AirPods Pro 3 case has gone through a subtle but noticeable design refresh. It has slightly different speaker cutouts, a relocated lanyard loop, and a more refined hinge placement. These tweaks make it look cooler, but they also mean covers designed for older AirPods Pro cases may not align perfectly.
Size Difference Between Both Cases
While the size difference isn’t huge, it’s just enough to matter. The AirPods Pro 3 case is a bit more compact and slightly reshaped. Even a few millimeters off can cause snug-fitting silicone or hard-shell covers to stretch weirdly or feel loose. So, if your old cover was already a tight fit, it might not slip on as easily.
AirPods Pro Size Comparison
| Model | Earbud Height | Earbud Width | Earbud Depth | Earbud Weight | Case Height | Case Width | Case Depth | Case Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirPods Pro 3 | 30.9 mm | 21.8 mm | 24.0 mm | 5.4 g | 46.2 mm | 61.4 mm | 21.8 mm | 50.9 g |
| AirPods Pro 2 | 30.9 mm | 21.8 mm | 24.0 mm | 5.3 g | 45.2 mm | 60.6 mm | 21.7 mm | 50.8 g |
| AirPods Pro (1st Gen) | 30.9 mm | 21.8 mm | 24.0 mm | 5.4 g | 45.2 mm | 60.6 mm | 21.7 mm | 45.6 g |
Will Old Covers Fit on AirPods Pro 3?
Technically, some old covers might fit if they’re made of a soft, flexible material. But the alignment can be off—charging port cutouts may not line up, and the lid may not fully close if the cover shifts. That’s a big no-no if you want your brand-new earbuds protected and secure.
Risks of Using the Wrong Cover
Using a cover that doesn’t fit right can scratch the case, block the speakers, or make the lid misalign over time. Plus, forcing a too-tight cover on your new AirPods Pro 3 could damage the hinge or wear down the finish. It’s not worth risking a pricey new gadget for an old cover.
Why Buy a New AirPods Pro 3 Case
Buying a case made specifically for the AirPods Pro 3 means you get a perfect fit, full protection, and access to all the new design features—like the speakers and lanyard loop. It also gives you a chance to upgrade your style if your old cover has seen better days.
How to Check Case Fit Properly
If you’re testing an old cover, make sure the lid closes without resistance, the cutouts match perfectly, and the case doesn’t pop out when you open it. If you have to push or stretch anything to make it work, it’s not the right fit. The cover should feel snug, not forced.
Best Covers for AirPods Pro 3
Look for covers labeled specifically for the AirPods Pro 3. Many brands are already rolling out slim silicone sleeves, rugged hard shells, and leather wraps made to fit this exact shape. They’ll protect your earbuds without blocking speakers or wireless charging.
Should You Reuse or Upgrade?
If you love your old cover and it fits perfectly, you might get away with using it for a while. But honestly? Upgrading to a fresh new AirPods Pro 3 cover is the smarter move. You’ll keep your new earbuds safe, enjoy a perfect fit, and match their updated design.
