Compare LG xboom Buds by will.i.am vs Apple AirPods Pro 3 Wireless Earbuds

Reviews consistently praise ANC for strong everyday isolation, especially against low-frequency noise, even if it is not described as class-leading versus premium rivals.

Across reviews, ANC is consistently described as best-in-class for earbuds, often quieting commutes and flights to near over-ear levels. Performance depends on achieving a good seal, and a few users report rare pressure/flight-related artifacts. Multiple listening modes (ANC, transparency, adaptive blends) make it easy to adjust noise control for different situations, and mode switching is generally smooth. Customization is still more preset-driven than fully user-tunable.

One review says Google and Microsoft fast pairing makes setup with those devices simple, indicating solid Android-side compatibility.

Android support is consistently described as basic Bluetooth audio with many features missing, including deeper settings and firmware updates. Reviewers regularly frame these as iPhone-first earbuds.

App support is generally a strength thanks to EQ, ANC and control customization, but one short review says the app still feels lacking.

There is no standalone AirPods app in the traditional sense; most controls live in Apple’s Settings on iOS. This works well for Apple users but offers little for Android users beyond pairing.

H2-based processing is referenced as enabling Apple’s adaptive features, call processing, and ecosystem behaviors, keeping the overall experience cohesive for iOS users.

The only direct codec evidence is negative, with one review explicitly noting there is no aptX Adaptive support.

Reviewers explicitly note that aptX is not supported, which limits Android-focused low-latency and hi-quality codec options.

Bass is repeatedly described as deep, impactful and weighty, though some reviews say the low end can dominate or muddy the presentation.

Bass is commonly described as deeper, more impactful, and cleaner than prior generations, helping energy in modern tracks. A minority find it overemphasized or fatiguing over long sessions.

Battery life is a clear positive, with reviews repeatedly citing around 10 hours from the buds and roughly 30 hours total with the case.

Single-charge battery life is widely reported around eight hours with ANC, with some tests pushing higher at moderate volume. The common caveat is reduced total runtime with the case compared with the prior generation.

One review explicitly confirms Bluetooth 5.4 with low-energy support.

Apple-device pairing and switching are generally smooth, but there are scattered reports of connection quirks such as occasional manual reconnects or odd channel behavior. Non-Apple pairing is possible but less seamless.

Build impressions are mixed: one review says the buds themselves have decent build quality, while other design comments are less enthusiastic overall.

Overall build is considered solid, helped by an IP57 rating for buds and case, but long-term serviceability is criticized. Some sources point out poor repairability and battery service constraints typical of true wireless earbuds.

Stem squeeze and swipe controls are broadly viewed as intuitive, enabling volume and mode changes without reaching for the phone. A few reviewers still mention occasional uncertainty with tap-based case controls or gesture reliability.

Case impressions are mixed-to-negative, with one review calling it basic and another saying it feels cheap.

The case remains compact and pocketable but is often described as glossy and scratch-prone, with slight size changes versus Pro 2. Pairing controls moving to a touch area can feel less tactile than a physical button.

Charging is described as quick, with one reviewer seeing the buds return to full after a short top-up.

Charging is flexible with USB-C, MagSafe/Qi wireless, and Apple Watch charger support, plus quick top-ups in the case. Some reviewers wish the fast-charge rate improved and note the missing cable in the box.

Codec support is functional rather than premium, with SBC, AAC and LC3 confirmed but no evidence of higher-end wireless codecs.

Codec support is typically summarized as SBC and AAC only, with frequent disappointment about no hi-res or wireless lossless playback. This is a recurring reason reviewers cite for looking at competitors.

Comfort is the biggest divisive point: several reviews call the buds bulky or tiring in-ear, while two shorter reviews describe them as comfortable.

Comfort is divisive: several reviewers find the new shape better for multi-hour sessions, while others feel pressure, digging, or faster ear fatigue. Tip sizing down (or mixing sizes per ear) often improves comfort.

Design is broadly seen as plain, bulky or utilitarian rather than stylish.

Fit can be snug and sealed with the right tips, though not every reviewer found the available options ideal.

The buds include multiple ear tip sizes, but reviewers still note that the selection is modest compared with some rivals.

Five included tip sizes (XXS through L) plus the hybrid foam-infused design are frequently called out as a meaningful upgrade. Reviewers emphasize trying different sizes and using Apple’s seal/fit tests.

EQ customization is a major strength, with multiple reviews highlighting custom tuning tools and flexible adjustment.

Lack of a proper user EQ is one of the most repeated complaints, especially from listeners who dislike the default tuning. Workarounds exist via iOS settings, but they do not replace a full EQ experience.

One review confirms a Find My feature that can play a sound to help locate the buds.

Find My support is repeatedly highlighted as a practical strength, with newer UWB in the case improving precision finding range and speed. Case speakers further help locate misplaced earbuds.

Tonal balance is inconsistent in the direct listening tests, with one review specifically calling the sound muddy.

Frequency response and tonal balance are seen as less strictly neutral than Pro 2, with some reviewers noting a more V-shaped or bass-forward tilt. Fit and listening volume can noticeably change perceived balance.

Included extras are modest but useful, with extra ear tips and a removable hook specifically mentioned.

In-box extras focus on multiple ear-tip sizes, but several reviews mention the lack of a bundled USB-C cable. Accessory value is therefore seen as mixed despite the improved tips.

Instrument separation is a weak point, with one review explicitly saying these buds do not deliver phenomenal separation.

Instrument separation and imaging are generally considered improved or at least highly competitive, helping layered mixes sound less congested. Spatial processing can further enhance placement cues for some listeners.

Integrated microphones are clearly present and feature-rich, with one review noting three mics per earbud.

LDAC support is directly criticized as missing.

LDAC support is repeatedly called out as absent, keeping Bluetooth streaming firmly in AAC/SBC territory.

Maximum-volume performance is a weakness, with one review saying clarity worsens at higher volumes.

Clarity at higher volumes is usually described as good with limited distortion, though tonal shifts and preference sensitivity still apply. Most sources do not report major breakup at typical listening levels.

Mic processing features are a strength, with reviews mentioning suppression of unwanted noise and dedicated wind-noise handling.

Noise reduction and Voice Isolation are generally effective at reducing chatter and traffic, but wind and very loud noise can introduce artifacts or leave some noise audible. Results vary by environment and settings.

Call quality is generally good rather than class-leading, with reviews describing clear speech and one standout whisper-mode result, but also a little tinniness in one case.

Call quality is commonly rated excellent, with voices sounding clear and natural in both quiet and moderately noisy places. Some sources even suggest the mics are usable for lightweight content capture.

Midrange clarity is mixed: some tuning improvements help, but muddiness remains a recurring complaint in other listening notes.

Midrange and vocal clarity are often praised as smooth and full, staying intelligible even with stronger low-end presence. Speech-heavy content and podcasts are generally easy to follow.

Cross-platform behavior is uneven, with iOS pairing friction specifically called out in one review.

They can connect to non-Apple devices (Android, PCs, some consoles), but functionality is limited compared with using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Expect a working audio connection, not the full feature set.

One review highlights multipoint as a perk for maintaining connections with multiple devices.

Passive isolation benefits from a snug seal and secure in-ear fit when the right tips are used.

Foam-infused silicone tips and the deeper fit improve passive sealing for many users, helping low-frequency rumble and chatter before ANC kicks in. It still does not behave like full memory-foam isolation for everyone.

The small, lightweight case makes the buds easy to carry on the go.

Preset EQ modes are useful but inconsistent: they can improve some tracks, yet reviewers also describe the preset selection as limited.

Apple’s adaptive tuning features (such as Adaptive EQ and personalized behaviors) are generally credited with keeping sound consistent and enjoyable for most listeners. Some reviewers still prefer more direct user control.

Sensors and smart features are a headline theme: heart-rate tracking is often reported as close to smartwatch readings, and hearing/translation tools add utility beyond audio. Wear-detection and fit-dependent sensing can also affect performance if the seal is inconsistent.

Software and setup are not fully frictionless, with one review warning users to find the correct app.

Setup is repeatedly described as effortless inside the Apple ecosystem with quick pairing and easy mode toggles. A few reviewers still call out certain controls as buried or unintuitive in iOS, especially for advanced audio routing.

Sound leakage is a clear weakness once volume rises past moderate listening levels.

Overall sound quality is highly mixed across the review set: some hear enjoyable, affordable tuning, while others call it a letdown that trails key rivals on clarity and refinement.

Overall sound quality is widely rated strong and detailed with a punchier presentation than Pro 2 for many listeners. The main split is preference: some love the added weight, while others miss the older model’s neutrality.

Depth is limited, with one review specifically describing the presentation as claustrophobic.

Reviewers wanting a more open presentation are left unsatisfied, with one review explicitly calling for greater spaciousness.

Many reviews describe a bigger, wider presentation, especially when spatial features are enabled, making movies and big mixes feel more expansive. Perceived width still varies by content and settings.

One review says LG removed the focus on spatial, three-dimensional sound found in pricier alternatives.

Spatial audio is frequently praised for movies and immersive content, with head tracking adding convincing placement. Spatial music remains more polarizing, with some preferring it turned off.

Stability is generally good thanks to the hook and snug fit, although one review says that security is only moderate if the tips do not suit your ears.

Fit security is improved for many thanks to the new angle and deeper insertion, making the buds feel more locked in for daily wear. Some reviewers still note slip-outs during intense workouts or when sweat/oil builds up.

Sustainability notes are mixed: there is recycled material content and trade-in/recycling programs, but repairability and battery longevity limits remain concerns. Some reviewers explicitly call out low repair scores.

Touch controls are polarizing: some reviewers found them fast and reliable, while others complained about phantom or accidental taps.

Control responsiveness is mostly good, but some reviewers call gestures stubborn or less responsive than expected. Overall reliability improves with familiarity, but it is not universally perfect.

Transparency and ambient listening are described positively, with reviewers saying outside sound comes through naturally enough for awareness.

Transparency is repeatedly praised for sounding natural and clear, with speech coming through realistically and less processed than many rivals. This also supports hearing and safety use cases outdoors.

Treble needs care: one review found crisp vocals on the right track, but others say the upper range can be overly forward or harsh.

Treble is typically described as crisp and detailed, though some sources mention occasional sharpness depending on volume, fit, or personal taste. The result is lively detail that may not suit everyone.

USB-C charging is explicitly confirmed.

USB-C charging on the case is now standard and repeatedly highlighted as a modern convenience, especially alongside MagSafe/Qi options.

Value is mixed but not disastrous; several reviews see decent value or fair pricing, while others say stronger-sounding alternatives exist nearby.

Volume output is on the low side in one review, forcing louder listening and exposing leakage issues.

Several reviewers note strong loudness headroom, making it easier to overcome noisy environments without maxing out volume. Loudness is often paired with strong ANC for commuting and travel.

Water resistance is consistently listed as IPX4, making the buds suitable for splashes and light rain rather than tougher workout protection.

IP57 is repeatedly cited as a meaningful durability upgrade for both buds and case, improving confidence for sweat, rain, and dust exposure. Reviewers still caution against treating them like dedicated swim gear.