AirPods 4 Review: Noise Cancelling Changes the Game

Introduction

I've spent the last few days testing out the AirPods 4, and I'm ready to share my thoughts on both the entry-level model and the more advanced noise-cancelling version. With so many features packed into these new earbuds, there's plenty to discuss.

Design and Comfort

The AirPods 4 represent the fourth generation of Apple's original true wireless earbuds, featuring an open design that eliminates silicone ear tips. This design caters to those who find traditional earbuds uncomfortable. Priced at $ 129 for the entry-level model and $ 179 for the Active Noise Cancelling (A&C) version, the AirPods 4 replace both the AirPods 2 and AirPods 3 in Apple's lineup.

The design is a hybrid between the AirPods 2 and AirPods 3, being slightly smaller than the latter and a bit larger than the former. Apple hopes this new design will offer a better fit for a wider range of ear shapes. During my tests, I found these earbuds to fit my ears better than the AirPods 3, although I sometimes had to adjust the angle to feel secure.

Sound Quality

In terms of sound quality, both models boast the same performance thanks to Apple's H2 chip and Bluetooth 5.3, which is also found in the AirPods Pro 2. The earbuds have been upgraded with new acoustic architecture and altered driver angles that direct sound more effectively into your ears, leading to a notable improvement in sound quality compared to the AirPods 3.

Overall, the sound produced by the AirPods 4 is cleaner with more depth and richness, placing them among the best open earbuds available today. While they don't quite match the bass performance of the AirPods Pro 2, the gap has narrowed significantly.

Noise Cancelling Features

The differentiating factor between the two models is, of course, Active Noise Cancelling. The A&C version provides an impressive level of noise reduction, though it doesn't completely measure up to the AirPods Pro 2. In noisy environments, these earbuds effectively reduce approximately 40-50% of background noise, making them suitable in situations like crowded streets or on a plane where engine noise can often be overwhelming.

The A&C model also includes additional features like a speaker in the case to help locate it using the Find My feature, whereas the entry-level model does not offer this feature. It's worth noting that the A&C model's case supports wireless charging, while the entry-level version does not.

User Experience

Both models have similar capabilities like personalized spatial audio, quick pairing, and automatic switching on Apple devices. They also support always-on Siri functionality. The A&C model features added capabilities such as conversation awareness and adaptive audio, which enhance the overall experience when communicating in noisy environments.

Battery life on the AirPods 4 is slightly worse than the AirPods 3, offering up to 5 hours of use with noise cancelling off and around 4 hours when it’s active. The charging case adds up to 25 hours of battery life with noise cancelling off and 16 hours with it on.

Conclusion

In summary, the AirPods 4 entry-level version is a compact upgrade over the AirPods 3, providing improved sound quality and the benefits of the H2 chip. The A&C model essentially combines the benefits of the AirPods Pro 2 with an open design, making it a game-changer in the realm of open earbuds with noise cancelling features. If you are hesitant about ear tips but still want effective noise cancellation, the AirPods 4 A&C is worth the extra $ 50.

I’d love to hear your opinions. What do you think about the new AirPods 4?

Keywords

• AirPods 4
• Noise cancelling
• Open design
• H2 chip
• Sound quality
• Active Noise Cancelling
• Bluetooth 5.3
• Battery life
• Conversation awareness
• Adaptive audio

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between the AirPods 4 models?
A: The key difference is that the A&C model features Active Noise Cancelling, while the entry-level model does not. The A&C model also includes a speaker in the charging case and supports wireless charging.

Q: How do the sound quality and features compare to previous models?
A: The AirPods 4 sound better than the AirPods 3, thanks to upgraded acoustic architecture and the H2 chip. Both models support personalized spatial audio, quick pairing, and always-on Siri.

Q: Is the noise cancelling effective in the A&C model?
A: Yes, the noise cancelling effectively reduces background noise by about 40-50%, though it is not as powerful as the AirPods Pro 2.

Q: How long is the battery life on the AirPods 4?
A: The AirPods 4 offer up to 5 hours of battery life with noise cancelling off and 4 hours with it on, along with additional battery life provided by the charging case.