Apple has been offering two tiers of its popular true wireless earphones, AirPods, for a few years now. The base AirPods, known as the AirPods 3rd Generation, were introduced in 2021, while the more premium option, the AirPods Pro 2, came out in 2022. As a reviewer who has tested both models extensively, I can attest to the distinct differences between the two. I use the standard AirPods for everyday activities around the house, such as cooking and chores, while I reserve the noise-cancelling AirPods Pro 2 for activities like dog walking, commuting, and other situations where I need better control over my audio environment.
Apple has recently unveiled its latest update to the base AirPods line after three years, introducing the new AirPods 4. This new model aims to bridge the gap between the standard AirPods and the premium AirPods Pro by bringing some of the Pro’s features to the base line. The AirPods 4 comes in two versions—one that serves as a straightforward update to the base model, and another that includes premium features like Active Noise Cancellation.
I had the opportunity to test both variations of the AirPods 4 before their official release date on September 20. The new AirPods 4 feature a redesigned charging case that is slightly smaller and now includes a USB-C port for charging. The earphones themselves have also been re-engineered, with Apple claiming a major overhaul using over 50 million individual data points to inform the design. The shape of the earphones has been slightly narrowed and redesigned to fit more comfortably in a variety of ears.
Under the hood, the AirPods 4 boast a new “acoustic architecture” and Apple’s Personalized Spatial Audio feature, along with the same H2 chip found in the Pro 2 model. This enables features like Siri Interactions, which allows users to respond to Siri notifications by shaking their head. The new Voice Isolation capability also enhances phone call quality by reducing background noise.
The AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation brings advanced hearing controls to the base line, including features like Transparency Mode, Adaptive Audio, and Conversation Awareness. These features aim to provide users with greater control over their audio environment and improve overall listening experiences.
In my testing of the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, I found the noise-cancelling feature to be highly effective, even without silicone tips to seal off the ear canal. The AirPods 4 created an immersive audio experience that effectively blocked out external sounds, allowing me to enjoy music and podcasts in a variety of environments. The fit of the earphones was comfortable, although not as snug as the Pro 2 model.
When comparing the AirPods 4 to the Pro 2 model, I found that the Pro 2 offered a slightly more immersive audio experience with fuller sound quality. However, the AirPods 4 still performed admirably, especially considering their open-ear design. The Adaptive Audio setting worked well to automatically adjust to different environments, ensuring that I remained aware of my surroundings.
During workouts, I tested both versions of the AirPods 4 to evaluate their performance. In the gym, the earphones stayed securely in my ears and provided good sound quality, particularly in the 4 with Active Noise Cancellation model. On runs, the AirPods 4 remained stable in my ears and delivered clear audio even in noisy outdoor environments. The battery life of the AirPods 4 was impressive, lasting several hours of continuous use without needing to be recharged.
Overall, the new AirPods 4 are a solid choice for users looking for true wireless earbuds with premium features. The Active Noise Cancellation model offers an impressive audio experience, while the base model provides reliable sound quality at a more affordable price point. Whether you prefer the open-ear design of the AirPods 4 or the snug fit of the Pro 2, both models offer excellent audio performance and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem of products.
