Apple AirPods 4 vs Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen)
The Verdict
Apple's AirPods 4 deliver exceptional value at $129, featuring the newer H2 chip, USB-C charging, and Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking,a significant leap from previous non-Pro models. Battery life reaches 5 hours per charge (30 hours total), though active noise cancellation is absent. AirPods Pro (1st Gen) at $249 remain compelling for users prioritizing ANC and Transparency mode, offering 4.5 hours with ANC enabled and wireless charging convenience. Notably, AirPods 4 actually surpass the Pro in several areas: superior H2 chip processing, faster USB-C charging with 5-minute quick charges, and better IP54 water resistance versus IPX4. However, AirPods Pro's active noise cancellation remains unmatched in this lineup and justifies the premium for frequent travelers. Choose AirPods 4 if you value longevity, modern connectivity, and spatial audio without ANC needs; select AirPods Pro 1st Gen if noise isolation is essential and you prefer wireless charging.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 4 if…
- →Best open-ear fit comfort — virtually disappears in the ear
- →Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking
- →USB-C charging case finally replaces Lightning
Buy the Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen) if…
- →Excellent ANC for the compact size — blocks most ambient noise
- →Transparency mode sounds remarkably natural
- →Three ear tip sizes ensure a secure, comfortable fit
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 4
Pros
- Best open-ear fit comfort — virtually disappears in the ear
- Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking
- USB-C charging case finally replaces Lightning
- Seamless Apple ecosystem integration across all devices
- IP54 dust and water resistance for workouts
Cons
- No active noise cancellation — pay $50 more for ANC model
- Open design leaks sound and lets ambient noise in
- AAC only — no aptX or LDAC for Android users
- 5-hour battery is shorter than most competitors
Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen)
Pros
- Excellent ANC for the compact size — blocks most ambient noise
- Transparency mode sounds remarkably natural
- Three ear tip sizes ensure a secure, comfortable fit
- Spatial Audio support added via firmware update
- Seamless integration across Apple devices
Cons
- 4.5-hour ANC battery life is short compared to newer models
- Lightning charging port — no USB-C
- Ear tips are prone to degradation and cracking over time
- Force sensor on stems can be tricky to press without dislodging
- Superseded by AirPods Pro 2 with significantly better specs
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 | Apple AirPods Pro (1st Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 4.3 g (each) | 5.4 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs (earbuds), 30 hrs total with case | 4.5 hrs ANC on (24 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | USB-C, 5-min charge for 1 hr playback | Lightning or Qi wireless charging |
| Drivers | Apple H2 chip, custom driver | Apple-designed driver with custom amplifier |
| Features | Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Adaptive EQ auto-tunes music to ear shape, USB-C charging case, H2 chip with Voice Isolation for calls, Automatic device switching across Apple devices, Find My integration with precision finding | Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Adaptive EQ, Spatial Audio (added via software update), Three sizes of silicone ear tips, Ear tip fit test |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP54 | 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.
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