Apple’s latest iteration of their wireless earbuds, the AirPods 4, brings a fresh design and updated features to their entry-level line of earbuds. Positioned as an affordable option for those looking for active noise cancelation (ANC) without breaking the bank, the AirPods 4 introduce a unique twist by offering a sub-$180 model that does away with the silicone ear tips typically found in noise-canceling earbuds. This is a notable departure from most ANC earbuds on the market, which usually rely on a tight seal created by silicone tips to block out external noise. Another significant change is the transition from the proprietary Lightning port to USB-C, aligning with Apple’s gradual shift towards universal charging standards.
Despite not having a true in-ear seal, the AirPods 4 still manage to deliver impressive noise-canceling capabilities. Having used these earbuds in a variety of environments, from bustling commutes to more serene settings, I was surprised by how well they reduced ambient noise. While they don’t quite match the noise-canceling performance of the AirPods Pro 2, they are an excellent option for those who dislike the pressure created by in-ear tips. For many users, the comfort and ease of use these earbuds offer will make them a popular choice, especially for long-term wear.
Pricing and Release
The AirPods 4 come in two versions, offering flexibility based on your preferences and budget. The non-ANC version is priced at $129, making it a direct replacement for the AirPods 2, which have remained on the market since 2019. As retailers clear out their stock, it’s not uncommon to find the older model for a lower price, but the AirPods 4 offer significant upgrades that make them a worthy successor. For users looking for ANC, the $179 version provides this feature at the same price point as the AirPods 3, but with the added benefit of noise cancellation.
Both versions of the AirPods 4 were made available for pre-order starting in mid-September, with a full release on September 20. This pricing places them in direct competition with other mid-range earbuds, while still undercutting the AirPods Pro 2 by about $70. This pricing strategy makes the AirPods 4 a solid choice for those seeking the Apple ecosystem’s features without the premium price tag.
Specifications
In terms of design and specifications, the AirPods 4 keep things compact and lightweight. The earbuds measure 30.2 x 18.3 x 18.1 mm, and each bud weighs a mere 0.15 ounces, making them easy to wear for extended periods without feeling bulky. The ANC version comes with a few extra features, such as wireless charging, thanks to its USB-C port, and an IP54 rating for water resistance, making them suitable for workouts or use in mildly wet conditions.
One of the more significant differences between the two models is battery life. The non-ANC AirPods 4 offer up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge, with the charging case extending the total battery life to 30 hours. Meanwhile, the ANC model sacrifices some battery life, offering 4 hours of listening time and 20 hours with the charging case when noise cancelation is enabled. Both models use Bluetooth 5.3 and Apple’s H2 chip, ensuring fast, reliable connections with Apple devices and improved audio performance. The IP54 rating on both models offers peace of mind when using them during workouts or in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
Differences: AirPods 4 vs. AirPods 4 with ANC
When comparing the two models, the key distinction is the active noise cancelation feature in the higher-priced version. The ANC model also includes a transparency mode that lets in ambient sounds when needed, such as during conversations or in environments where situational awareness is crucial. Additionally, Apple’s Adaptive Audio feature adjusts the balance between ANC and transparency mode depending on environmental noise, providing a more seamless listening experience.
The charging case for the ANC version also comes with a few extra features that aren’t available in the standard model. It includes support for wireless charging and integrates with the Find My app, making it easier to locate misplaced earbuds. This feature alone may make the ANC version a more appealing option for those who frequently misplace their devices.
Design and Fit
The AirPods 4 represent a design evolution for Apple’s earbuds, doing away with the long stems that have become iconic for earlier models. Instead, they feature a more streamlined design that closely resembles the AirPods Pro, minus the silicone ear tips. The result is a pair of earbuds that feel almost weightless in the ear, making them suitable for all-day use. As someone who finds silicone ear tips uncomfortable for long periods, I appreciated the lightweight and open-ear design of the AirPods 4.
While the design is comfortable, there are occasional drawbacks, especially during activities like running or other exercises. On longer journeys, such as a cross-country flight, I noticed that the earbuds shifted slightly in my ears, requiring me to adjust them periodically. Despite this, the overall comfort level was high, and the fit felt secure during most regular use.
Another design change is the replacement of the traditional pairing button with a capacitive touchpad located on the front of the charging case. This small touch-sensitive area lets you easily put the earbuds in Bluetooth pairing mode by tapping it twice, a subtle but useful upgrade.
Audio and Performance
Apple has improved the acoustic design of the AirPods 4, delivering better audio performance than previous models. The bass is richer, and the highs are crisper, resulting in a more dynamic listening experience. During testing, music tracks like Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” sounded full and vibrant, with each instrument and vocal coming through clearly. The earbuds also performed well during podcasts, where speech was sharp and easy to follow.
The ANC version of the AirPods 4 offers a decent level of noise cancelation, although it doesn’t quite match the more expensive AirPods Pro 2. For everyday use, such as commuting or working in moderately noisy environments, the ANC performs admirably. However, for those seeking the best in noise cancelation, especially for use in louder settings like airplanes, there are better options available. The adaptive audio feature, which switches between ANC and transparency mode based on environmental noise, is a nice addition, but its effectiveness is more subtle than dramatic.
Advanced Features
Apple has included several high-end features in the AirPods 4, many of which were previously reserved for the Pro models. Personalized Spatial Audio customizes the sound to fit your specific hearing preferences, making for a more tailored listening experience. Conversation Awareness automatically lowers the volume when you start speaking, allowing for easier conversations without removing the earbuds. Another new feature, Head Gestures, lets you answer or decline calls by simply nodding or shaking your head, making hands-free operation more intuitive.
Siri integration is still a core feature of the AirPods 4, and with upcoming iOS 18 updates, Apple’s voice assistant is expected to gain even more contextual awareness, improving its ability to manage tasks during conversations. The earbuds are also sweat-resistant, with an IP54 rating, making them ideal for use during workouts or in slightly wet conditions.
Battery Life Comparison
Battery life is one area where the AirPods 4 fall slightly short, especially when compared to higher-end models. The non-ANC version offers 5 hours of listening time on a full charge, with the charging case extending that to 30 hours. Meanwhile, the ANC version provides 4 hours of listening time with noise cancelation enabled and 20 hours with the charging case.
These numbers are respectable but fall behind competitors like the AirPods Pro 2, which offer up to 6 hours of listening time with ANC and 30 hours with the case.
Fortunately, fast charging helps mitigate some of these limitations. Just 5 minutes in the case provides about an hour of listening time, ensuring that you won’t be without music for long, even if the battery runs low. And with the switch to USB-C, charging the case is more convenient than ever, especially for users who already own other USB-C devices.
Conclusion
The AirPods 4 are a solid entry-level option for anyone looking for a reliable pair of wireless earbuds. With USB-C charging, sweat resistance, and advanced features like Personalized Spatial Audio and Head Gestures, they pack a lot of value into a small package. The $129 starting price makes them accessible to a wide audience, while the $179 ANC model adds noise cancelation and other premium features for a reasonable upgrade.
While the AirPods Pro 2 offer better noise cancelation and longer battery life, the AirPods 4 strike a good balance between price and performance. For those who want to stay within the Apple ecosystem and enjoy the benefits of seamless integration with their devices, the AirPods 4 are easy to recommend. If you’re looking for a comfortable, everyday pair of earbuds with a sleek design, the AirPods 4 should be at the top of your list.