AudioTechnica ATH-ANC300TW Gen 3: Silence is Golden (Again)
AudioTechnica has always been a reliable name in audio, and their ATH-ANC300TW line of noise-cancelling earbuds has consistently impressed. Now in its third generation, the ATH-ANC300TW Gen 3 earbuds bring some welcome improvements that make them a serious contender in the crowded noise-cancelling earbud market of 2026.
What’s New?
The Gen 3 earbuds boast a few key upgrades over their predecessors:
- Improved Noise Cancellation: AudioTechnica claims a 25% improvement in noise cancellation, and I believe it. The ANC is noticeably better at blocking out low-frequency rumbling (think airplane engines or bus noise) and does a decent job with higher-frequency sounds like chattering.
- Enhanced Battery Life: You now get a solid 7 hours of playback with ANC on, and the charging case provides an additional 25 hours. This is a significant boost and means you can easily get through a long flight or a full workday without needing to recharge.
- Multipoint Connectivity: Finally! The Gen 3s support multipoint Bluetooth, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously. Switching between your phone and laptop is seamless.
- Improved Call Quality: The microphone array has been redesigned, resulting in clearer voice calls, even in noisy environments.
Sound Quality
AudioTechnica stays true to its reputation for delivering accurate and balanced sound. The ATH-ANC300TW Gen 3 earbuds offer a neutral sound signature with a slight emphasis on clarity. Bass is present but not overpowering, mids are detailed, and highs are crisp without being harsh. If you’re looking for a bass-heavy sound, these might not be for you. However, for audiophiles who appreciate accurate sound reproduction, these are a winner.
Comfort and Fit
The earbuds come with a variety of ear tip sizes to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. They are relatively lightweight and didn’t cause any discomfort even after several hours of use. The ergonomic design ensures they stay put during workouts or other activities.
The Downsides
No product is perfect, and the ATH-ANC300TW Gen 3 earbuds do have a few minor drawbacks:
- Price: These are premium earbuds and come with a premium price tag. They are more expensive than some of their competitors.
- Design: The design is functional but not particularly stylish. They are a bit bulkier than some other earbuds on the market.
- No Wireless Charging: While the improved battery life is great, it’s a shame that the charging case doesn’t support wireless charging.
The Verdict
Despite a few minor drawbacks, the AudioTechnica ATH-ANC300TW Gen 3 earbuds are an excellent choice for anyone looking for high-quality noise-cancelling earbuds with accurate sound reproduction and improved battery life. The enhanced noise cancellation, multipoint connectivity, and clearer call quality make them a worthy upgrade over previous generations. If you’re willing to spend the money, you won’t be disappointed.