Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) vs Marshall Major IV
The Verdict
AirPods 4 and Marshall Major IV serve entirely different use cases, making direct comparison challenging. AirPods 4 deliver Apple's signature integration with 5-hour battery life (ANC enabled) and custom H2 chip processing, featuring adaptive audio and personalized spatial audio with head tracking. The IP54 rating provides solid durability for active use. Marshall Major IV prioritizes portability and battery endurance with an impressive 80+ hour wireless runtime, plus 15-minute quick charging yields 15 hours of playback. Their 40mm drivers and aptX codec support appeal to audio enthusiasts seeking richer sound without ANC limitations. AirPods 4's open-fit design excels for awareness during calls and workouts, while Major IV's on-ear design isolates better for immersive listening. Marshall includes wired 3.5mm connectivity and EQ customization via app, offering flexibility AirPods lack. Sound quality differences matter: Marshall leans warmer with bass emphasis, while AirPods prioritize clarity and Apple ecosystem seamlessness. Price-wise, AirPods 4 cost $30 more but demand iPhone integration for full features. Choose AirPods 4 if you're entrenched in Apple's ecosystem and value ANC plus spatial audio. Select Marshall Major IV if you need exceptional battery life, superior sound customization, and multi-device compatibility without subscription to premium features.
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 Marshall Major IV if…
- →80+ hour battery life is essentially best-in-class for any headphone
- →Iconic Marshall rock-and-roll aesthetic and branding
- →Wireless Qi charging is convenient and rare at this price
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)
Marshall Major IV
Pros
- 80+ hour battery life is essentially best-in-class for any headphone
- Iconic Marshall rock-and-roll aesthetic and branding
- Wireless Qi charging is convenient and rare at this price
- aptX codec support for high-quality Bluetooth audio
- Lightweight at 165 g for comfortable extended listening
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- On-ear design can cause discomfort after extended wear
- Bass-heavy sound signature may not suit all listeners
- No multipoint Bluetooth connectivity
- Sound leaks due to on-ear, open-backed design
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) | Marshall Major IV |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | on-ear |
| Weight | 4.3 g (per bud) | 165 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 30 hrs total with case | 80+ hrs wireless, 15 min = 15 hrs playback |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless, Apple Watch charger | USB-C and Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Custom Apple low-distortion driver with high-dynamic-range amplifier | 40mm custom-tuned dynamic drivers |
| 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 | Wireless charging, Multi-directional control knob, Collapsible design, 3.5mm wired input, Marshall Bluetooth app with EQ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC, aptX |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP54 (buds and case) | None |
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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.
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