# Do AirPods Pro 3 support lossless audio?

> Understanding AirPods Pro 3 audio codec limitations

*Published: 2026-03-24 | Updated: 2026-03-24 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/answers/airpods-pro-3-lossless-audio-support*

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## Product: AirPods Pro 3
**Brand:** Apple

No, [AirPods Pro 3](https://www.shopsavvy.com/products/kN6SsYyhYtu4qA) do not support lossless audio playback. Despite costing $249, they only support AAC and SBC Bluetooth codecs.

## Why Can't AirPods Pro 3 Play Lossless?

Bluetooth bandwidth is the core limitation. Apple Lossless requires approximately 1,411 kbps, while Bluetooth AAC maxes out around 320 kbps. Apple hasn't implemented alternative high-resolution codecs like LDAC or aptX Adaptive that would enable higher-quality wireless audio.

## What Actually Happens

When you play Apple Music Lossless or Hi-Res Lossless tracks through AirPods Pro 3:
- Audio is automatically downconverted to AAC
- You're not hearing the full quality of the recording
- Maximum quality is essentially CD-quality or below

## How Competitors Compare

| Earbuds | Hi-Res Codec Support |
|---------|---------------------|
| Sony WF-1000XM5 | LDAC |
| Bose QC Ultra | aptX Adaptive |
| Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro | Samsung Scalable |
| **AirPods Pro 3** | **None** |

## Does It Actually Matter?

For most listeners in everyday situations—commuting, working out, going about your day—the difference between AAC and lossless is genuinely hard to hear. Small earbud drivers and environmental noise both limit what you can perceive.

However, audiophiles with trained ears may notice the difference when listening in quiet environments with high-quality recordings. And for premium earbuds, many feel the option should be available.

## The Irony

Apple heavily promotes Apple Music's lossless catalog while selling no wireless earbuds or headphones capable of playing it at full quality. The only way to hear Apple Music Lossless through Apple products is via wired Lightning or USB-C connections.

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| Amazon | $219.99  | Check |

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*Where this comes from: This answer is based on ShopSavvy's product database, real-time pricing from thousands of retailers, and analysis of user reviews to give you a well-rounded picture.*