Ear pain when using new AirPods Pro 3

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Level 1

4 points

Ear pain when using new AirPods Pro 3

Hi everyone,

I’ve been experiencing ear pain when using the new AirPods Pro 3 for more than about 2 hours. My ear feels swollen and sore afterward, and it becomes difficult to put the AirPod back in.

I’ve used AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro (1st generation) for years and never had this issue. If I stop using the new AirPods for a couple of days, the pain goes away — but it returns once I start using them again. I’ve also tried using only one AirPod, and the problem affects only that ear.

I don’t have other earphones to compare with, but I’ve been using AirPods for over 10 years without anything like this happening. It almost feels like my ear gets muscle soreness.

Has anyone else experienced something similar or found a solution?

Thanks in advance!

Posted on Oct 30, 2025 1:12 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Carol B.

Level 6

17,543 points

Oct 30, 2025 6:59 AM in response to flowerts

I recently switched from AirPod Pro 2 to 3. Like you, I found the 3s uncomfortable. It took a while, trying out the various ear tips but finally settled on the smallest tip in my left ear and the next size up in the right. Also, if you look at the tip, you will see that there is a rectangular opening. That needs to go into your ear, straight up and down, even with your face. Otherwise it will not seal properly and is (at lest to me) uncomfortable. Making those adjustments, I now find the AirPod Pro 3s very comfortable. Hope this helps.

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Answer 2

flowerts Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 30, 2025 7:27 AM in response to Carol B.

Hi Carol,

Thank you for your feedback.

Indeed, I did the same when I got them first. I ended up too with the smaller size for both. They fit perfectly and in fact when I wear them I have no discomfort. It happens after I stop using them in the next 2-3 hours. It's quite strange.

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