Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) vs Sony WF-C700N
The Verdict
Apple AirPods 4 deliver a premium ecosystem experience with seamless integration across Apple devices, spatial audio with head tracking, and the convenience of Qi wireless charging plus Apple Watch compatibility. The H2 chip powers effective noise cancellation in an open-fit design, though battery life maxes out at 5 hours per charge with ANC enabled. Sony WF-C700N offer significantly better value at $119 versus $179, featuring multipoint Bluetooth connectivity for switching between devices, superior single-charge battery life of 7.5 hours with ANC on, and customizable EQ via the Headphones Connect app. Sony's 10-minute quick charge yielding 1 hour of playback is genuinely useful for emergencies. Both have comparable noise cancellation effectiveness and similar codec support (AAC/SBC). AirPods excel for iPhone and Mac users who prioritize ecosystem convenience and audio quality through spatial audio, while Sony targets Android users and anyone needing longer listening sessions without recharging. For cross-platform flexibility and battery longevity, Sony delivers more practical value. For seamless Apple integration and spatial audio features, AirPods justify the premium. Choose AirPods if you live in Apple's ecosystem, Sony if you want multipoint connectivity and all-day battery life at a lower price.
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 Sony WF-C700N if…
- →ANC at $119 is exceptional value — best noise cancellation under $150
- →Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
- →Multipoint connection handles phone and laptop simultaneously
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)
Sony WF-C700N
Pros
- ANC at $119 is exceptional value — best noise cancellation under $150
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
- Multipoint connection handles phone and laptop simultaneously
- IPX4 water resistance for workouts and commuting
- 7.5-hour battery with ANC is competitive at this price
Cons
- No LDAC — limited to SBC and AAC codecs
- ANC is effective but not as strong as WF-1000XM5
- No wireless charging on the case
- Bass can sound slightly thin compared to pricier Sony models
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) | Sony WF-C700N |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.3 g (per bud) | 4.6 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 30 hrs total with case | 7.5 hrs ANC on (15 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | USB-C, Qi wireless, Apple Watch charger | USB-C, 10 min = 1 hr playback |
| Drivers | Custom Apple low-distortion driver with high-dynamic-range amplifier | 5mm 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 | Active Noise Cancellation, Ambient Sound mode, DSEE digital sound enhancement, Multipoint connection, Sony Headphones Connect app EQ customization |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP54 (buds and case) | IPX4 |
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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.
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Sony products. View full details for the Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation) or the Sony WF-C700N.