Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) vs Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C)
Both models leverage Apple's H2 chip and deliver solid ANC performance, but differ in refinement and features. AirPods 4 introduces ANC to an open-fit design at $179, offering 5-hour battery life (ANC on) and essentials like Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness. AirPods Pro 2 ($249) step up with sealed silicone tips for superior noise isolation, extended 6-hour battery, and premium additions including Hearing Aid functionality, dynamic head tracking for Spatial Audio, and Precision Finding on the case. Sound quality favors the Pro 2's high-excursion driver design. If budget is primary concern and you value openness, AirPods 4 deliver exceptional value. For maximum ANC capability, hearing health features, and best-in-class audio, AirPods Pro 2 justify the $70 premium. Recommend AirPods Pro 2 for serious listeners; AirPods 4 for casual users.
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) | Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.3 g (per bud) | 5.3 g (per bud) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 30 hrs total with case | 6 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 30 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless, Apple Watch charger | USB-C, MagSafe wireless, Qi wireless, Apple Watch charger |
| Drivers | Custom Apple low-distortion driver with high-dynamic-range amplifier | Custom Apple high-excursion driver with custom amplifier |
| Features | Active Noise Cancellation in an open-fit (non-tip) design, Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness, Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, H2 chip, Find My (case speaker, no Precision Finding U1), Voice Isolation for calls | Adaptive Audio, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Conversation Awareness, Hearing Aid and hearing test (iOS 18), Find My with Precision Finding on case, H2 chip |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP54 (buds and case) | IP54 (buds and case) |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation)
Pros
- First open-fit AirPods with active noise cancellation
- Much more comfortable than Pro for users who dislike silicone tips
- Smaller, lighter case with USB-C and wireless charging
- Adaptive Audio, Spatial Audio, and Conversation Awareness
- Cheaper than AirPods Pro 2
Cons
- ANC is weaker than tip-sealed earbuds like AirPods Pro 2
- No swappable ear tips means fit may not suit everyone
- AAC only — no hi-res or lossless codecs
- No Precision Finding (no U1 chip in case)
- No wireless charging on the cheaper non-ANC variant (this model has it)
Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C)
Pros
- Class-leading active noise cancellation for in-ear earbuds
- Seamless integration and instant pairing across the Apple ecosystem
- Excellent Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking
- USB-C case adds Find My speaker and Precision Finding
- Adaptive Audio dynamically blends ANC and Transparency
Cons
- No lossless or hi-res Bluetooth codecs (AAC only)
- No Bluetooth multipoint between non-Apple devices
- Limited functionality on Android and Windows
- Stem-style design is not for everyone
Related Comparisons
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Apple products. View full details for the Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) or the Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C).