Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) vs Beats Studio Pro
Apple AirPods 4 deliver impressive noise cancellation in a lightweight, open-fit design ideal for all-day wear and quick charging via USB-C, Qi, or Apple Watch charger. Beats Studio Pro offer superior sound quality with 40mm drivers, extended 24-hour battery life with ANC, lossless wired audio, and cross-platform compatibility—making them the choice for audiophiles and Android users. AirPods 4 excel in portability, call quality via Voice Isolation, and seamless Apple ecosystem integration with spatial audio. Studio Pro justify their $170 premium through significantly better audio fidelity, longer listening sessions, and versatile sound profiles. For casual listeners prioritizing convenience and comfort, AirPods 4 are excellent; for serious music listeners and professionals demanding premium sound and longer battery endurance, Beats Studio Pro are the clear winner.
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) | Beats Studio Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 4.3 g (per bud) | 260 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 30 hrs total with case | 24 hours ANC on (40 hours ANC off) |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless, Apple Watch charger | USB-C, 10 min = 4 hours Fast Fuel |
| Drivers | Custom Apple low-distortion driver with high-dynamic-range amplifier | 40mm custom dynamic |
| 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 over USB-C, Native compatibility with both Apple and Android, Transparency mode, Three signature sound profiles via USB-C |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP54 (buds and case) | None |
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 Studio Pro
Pros
- Lossless USB-C wired audio playback
- Works well with both iOS and Android
- Comfortable, lightweight build
- Strong battery life
Cons
- No multipoint Bluetooth pairing
- ANC trails Sony, Bose, Apple
- Same physical design as 2017 Studio 3
- No aptX or LDAC codec support
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 Studio Pro.