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Apple AirPods (3rd generation) vs HiFiMAN HE400SE

Side-by-side comparison — scores, specs and which one fits your setup.

Apple AirPods (3rd generation)
7.2
/ 10
True WirelessMid range
HIGHER SCORE
HiFiMAN HE400SE
7.5
/ 10
Over-earMid range

Specs comparison

7.2/10
SCORE
7.5/10
16Ω
IMPEDANCE
25Ω
94dB
SENSITIVITY
91dB
No
NEEDS AMP
Yes

Analysis

The Apple AirPods (3rd generation) scores 7.2/10 with 16Ω impedance and 94dB sensitivity. At 16Ω, it drives well from most phones without an external amp.

The HiFiMAN HE400SE scores 7.5/10 with 25Ω impedance and 91dB sensitivity. At 25Ω, it also benefits from amplification to perform at its best.

Based on our scoring, the HiFiMAN HE400SE scores higher overall. However, the right choice depends on your full audio chain — use our analyzer to see which fits your actual setup.

Own one of these headphones?

A high headphone score doesn't mean your audio sounds great. Your DAC, amp or source might be the real bottleneck.

Analyze my setup →(3rd generation) details →HiFiMAN HE400SE details →

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