Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) vs Beats Fit Pro
Both earbuds deliver capable ANC performance at identical pricing, but they serve different use cases effectively. Apple AirPods 4 prioritize seamless ecosystem integration with superior total battery life (30 vs 24 hours), the latest H2 chip, and innovative Conversation Awareness for real-world convenience. Beats Fit Pro excel for active users, offering secure-fit wingtips, slightly longer single-charge duration (6 vs 5 hours), and broader device compatibility spanning iOS and Android equally well. Sound quality leans toward the AirPods' refined tuning, while Beats provide marginally better durability (IPX4 vs IP54 rated). AirPods 4 suit Apple loyalists craving ecosystem cohesion and extended case battery, whereas Beats Fit Pro better serve fitness enthusiasts or Android-first users wanting a secure fit without proprietary lock-in.
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) | Beats Fit Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.3 g (per bud) | 5.6 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 30 hrs total with case | 6 hrs (ANC on), 24 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless, Apple Watch charger | USB-C, 5-min charge for 1 hr playback |
| Drivers | Custom Apple low-distortion driver with high-dynamic-range amplifier | Custom Beats driver |
| 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 | Secure-fit wingtips for active use, Apple H1 chip with one-touch pairing, Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Adaptive EQ, Android and iOS compatible |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP54 (buds and case) | IPX4 |
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)
Beats Fit Pro
Pros
- Secure wingtip design stays locked in during intense workouts
- ANC and Transparency mode work well at $179
- Spatial Audio with head tracking for Apple Music
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance for gym use
- Works with both iOS and Android — not Apple-exclusive
Cons
- 6-hour battery per charge is below average
- No LDAC or aptX — AAC-only Bluetooth
- H1 chip is older — missing features of newer H2 chip
- Wingtips can cause discomfort in smaller ears after hours
Related Comparisons
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Beats products. View full details for the Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) or the Beats Fit Pro.