Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) vs Beats Solo 4
The Verdict
AirPods 4 and Beats Solo 4 serve different use cases despite similar pricing. AirPods 4 deliver Apple's signature seamless integration with custom H2 chip processing, active noise cancellation in a non-tipping design, and impressive 30-hour total battery with wireless charging,ideal for iPhone users prioritizing portability. Beats Solo 4 are on-ear headphones offering exceptional 50-hour battery life, lossless audio via wired connection, and broader platform compatibility. Sound quality favors Beats' larger drivers for richness, while AirPods excel in spatial audio and call clarity with Voice Isolation. AirPods 4 lack ANC but compensate with Adaptive Audio; Beats lack ANC entirely. For commuters valuing convenience and Apple ecosystem benefits, AirPods 4 wins. For extended listening sessions and neutral platform support, Beats Solo 4 offers better value despite lacking noise cancellation.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) if…
- →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
Buy the Beats Solo 4 if…
- →50-hour battery life is the longest in any Beats product
- →Works equally well with both iOS and Android — no ecosystem lock-in
- →Lossless audio via USB-C is a first for Beats on-ear headphones
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 Solo 4
Pros
- 50-hour battery life is the longest in any Beats product
- Works equally well with both iOS and Android — no ecosystem lock-in
- Lossless audio via USB-C is a first for Beats on-ear headphones
- Lighter and more comfortable than Solo 3 at 217 g
- Spatial Audio with head tracking for immersive music
Cons
- No active noise cancellation — odd for $199 in 2024
- On-ear design causes pressure fatigue after extended wear
- AAC/SBC only via Bluetooth — no LDAC or aptX
- Sound leans bass-heavy, which won't suit all genres
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) | Beats Solo 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | on-ear |
| Weight | 4.3 g (per bud) | 217 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 30 hrs total with case | 50 hrs |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless, Apple Watch charger | USB-C, 10-min Fast Fuel for 5 hrs |
| Drivers | Custom Apple low-distortion driver with high-dynamic-range amplifier | 40 mm transducer with custom acoustic platform |
| 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 | Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, Lossless audio via USB-C or 3.5mm cable, Apple and Android Find My support, One-touch pairing with both iOS and Android, Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range, Up to 50 hours of battery life |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP54 (buds and case) | None |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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 Solo 4.