SpecPair
Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation)
Apple

Apple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation)

$179Released 2024

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)

Full Specifications

SpecificationApple AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation)
Active Noise Cancelling
Typein-ear
Weight4.3 g (per bud)
Battery
Battery life5 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 30 hrs total with case
ChargingUSB-C, Qi wireless, Apple Watch charger
DriversCustom Apple low-distortion driver with high-dynamic-range amplifier
FeaturesActive 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
Connectivity
Wired option
CodecsAAC, SBC
Bluetooth5.3
Multipoint
Water ResistanceIP54 (buds and case)

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