As an AirPods user since 2016 and an AirPods Pro fan since 2019, I’ve always appreciated the benefits of in-ear tips, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and Transparency modes. These features have defined my AirPods experience, but not everyone is a fan of in-ear designs, and the $249 price tag for AirPods Pro can be steep. Apple’s new AirPods 4 addresses both of these concerns by offering an affordable yet feature-rich alternative.
Two Versions to Suit Different Needs
The AirPods 4 lineup includes two models. The $129 version replaces the previous $169 AirPods 3, providing great value for those new to AirPods or upgrading from earlier versions. They compete well with other wireless earbuds in this price range and, of course, offer Apple’s unmatched reliability. These come with a charging case that now supports USB-C, just like the iPhone 15.
I’ve spent the last week testing the higher-end $179 AirPods 4, which replaces the earlier $179 AirPods 3 that included wireless charging. This new model brings over several premium features from the AirPods Pro, including ANC and Transparency mode, all while retaining the traditional open-ear design of AirPods. You can charge them via USB-C, Qi, MagSafe, or even the Apple Watch charging puck.
Active Noise Cancellation Without In-Ear Tips
The standout feature of the $179 AirPods 4 is the introduction of ANC and Transparency mode without the need for in-ear tips. The design is nearly identical to the cheaper AirPods 4, but with the added functionality of noise profiles that you can activate by squeezing the stems—previously a feature exclusive to the AirPods Pro.
While they don’t pack the same audio punch as the AirPods Pro 2, the ANC works impressively well, especially during my flight test, where music and podcasts were easily audible over the drone of the plane. Transparency mode also remains useful, letting ambient sound in when needed, though it’s less critical without the in-ear design.
Who Are the AirPods 4 For?
If you love the fit of AirPods 3 but want ANC and Transparency without switching to in-ear tips, the $179 AirPods 4 are a fantastic choice. They provide a balance between the design of the standard AirPods and the noise-cancelling technology of the AirPods Pro, at a lower price point.
Additionally, the higher-end AirPods 4 come with improved Find My support thanks to a built-in speaker in the wireless charging case. This feature makes locating misplaced AirPods much easier, even when they’re tucked away in hard-to-find spots like your couch cushions.
Battery Life and Charging Convenience
During my tests, I noticed that the AirPods 4 reach the low battery alert slightly sooner than the AirPods Pro 2, but there’s still a decent amount of listening time before they need to be recharged. Both models benefit from quick charging in the case, a hallmark of the AirPods experience that remains as convenient as ever.
Conclusion: A Smart Upgrade for All Users
Whether you’re looking for a reliable and affordable pair of wireless earphones with the $129 AirPods 4, or you’re excited to try out ANC and Transparency without in-ear tips for $179, both versions of AirPods 4 deliver the full AirPods experience. If you’ve been using earlier models or are simply AirPods-curious, these are solid choices that build on nearly eight years of wireless audio excellence.