Choosing between the AirPods 4 and the AirPods Pro 2 requires careful consideration of your needs and budget. The AirPods 4, launched on September 20, 2024, are available in two versions: a standard model and one that includes Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Both versions feature the H2 chip for high-quality audio. In contrast, the AirPods Pro 2, released in September 2022 and updated in 2023 with a USB-C case, offer superior noise cancellation and an Adaptive Transparency mode.
This article provides a comprehensive comparison to help you decide which AirPods best fit your lifestyle. We will examine key factors such as audio quality, noise cancellation, features, battery life, and price. By analyzing these aspects, you will be equipped to make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize affordability, advanced noise cancellation, or the latest technology, this guide will help you choose the perfect pair of AirPods for your needs.
Apple Airpods 4
AirPods 4 vs. AirPods Pro 2: A Detailed Comparison
Choosing the right pair of AirPods can be tricky with so many options available. This article compares the AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2, outlining their key differences to help you make an informed decision. We’ll cover audio quality, noise cancellation, features, battery life, and price.
Audio Quality
Both AirPods 4 models and the AirPods Pro 2 use the H2 chip for high-quality audio. This means you can expect clear sound and good bass performance from all of them. The AirPods Pro 2 have a slight edge with their custom-built driver and amplifier.
Noise Cancellation
- AirPods 4: The standard AirPods 4 do not have active noise cancellation.
- AirPods 4 with ANC: This model offers active noise cancellation, similar to the AirPods Pro 2.
- AirPods Pro 2: These have best-in-class active noise cancellation, blocking out more external noise than the AirPods 4 with ANC. They also include Adaptive Transparency mode, which lets you hear your surroundings when needed.
Key Features
| Feature | AirPods 4 | AirPods 4 with ANC | AirPods Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation | No | Yes | Yes (More effective) |
| Adaptive Transparency | No | No | Yes |
| Spatial Audio | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| H2 Chip | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Skin-detect sensors | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Touch controls | Yes | Yes | Yes (Improved with volume control) |
| Water resistance | IP54 | IP54 | IP54 |
| Charging Case | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C |
| MagSafe and Qi charging | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| “Hey Siri” support | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Apple Airpods Pro 2
Battery Life
- AirPods 4: Up to 6 hours of listening time. Up to 30 hours total with the charging case.
- AirPods 4 with ANC: Up to 5 hours with ANC on, 6 hours with ANC off. Up to 24 hours total with the case.
- AirPods Pro 2: Similar to AirPods 4 with ANC.
Price
- AirPods 4: The most affordable option.
- AirPods 4 with ANC: Priced in between the standard version and the Pro.
- AirPods Pro 2: The most expensive option.
Which AirPods Should You Choose?
- AirPods 4: Best for users on a budget who want good sound quality and don’t need noise cancellation.
- AirPods 4 with ANC: A good balance of price and features, suitable for those who want noise cancellation but don’t need the absolute best.
- AirPods Pro 2: The top choice for audiophiles and those who demand the most effective noise cancellation.
What about AirPods 3?
If you’re considering AirPods, you might also come across AirPods 3. These sit between the AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro in terms of features and price. They have a similar design to AirPods 4 but use the older H1 chip and lack active noise cancellation. AirPods 3 are still a solid option if you find them at a good price, but the AirPods 4 generally offer better value with their updated features and improved audio.
Cost Comparison
AirPods come in three price tiers. The base AirPods 4 cost $129. The AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation are priced at $179. The top-end AirPods Pro 2 retail for $249.
Budget-conscious buyers will prefer the standard AirPods 4. Those wanting noise cancellation have two options. The mid-range AirPods 4 with ANC offer good value. The Pro 2 model provides premium features for a higher price.
Here’s a price breakdown:
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| AirPods 4 | $129 |
| AirPods 4 with ANC | $179 |
| AirPods Pro 2 | $249 |
The $50 jump from base to ANC model adds significant functionality. The Pro 2’s $70 premium brings further enhancements.
Buyers should weigh their needs against their budget. The base model suits casual listeners. The ANC version fits those wanting noise reduction. The Pro 2 caters to audiophiles and frequent travelers.
Apple’s pricing aligns with each model’s features. The extra cost for Apple products is factored in across the range.
Earbud and Case Design
The AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 showcase distinct design features. Both models sport sleek, modern aesthetics, but key differences set them apart.
The AirPods 4 case offers USB-C connectivity, while the AirPods Pro 2 case adds wireless charging and a built-in speaker for Find My functionality. Size-wise, the AirPods 4 case is slightly more compact.
Earbud design varies between models. AirPods 4 feature a narrower oval grille opening compared to previous generations. The Pro 2 earbuds include removable ear tips for a customizable fit. Users can choose from four sizes: XS, S, M, and L.
Comfort plays a crucial role in earbud selection. AirPods 4 maintain the one-size-fits-all approach, while AirPods Pro 2 offer a more personalized fit with their adjustable ear tips.
Water and dust resistance are present in both models, enhancing durability for everyday use. This feature protects the earbuds from light splashes and sweat during workouts.
The stem design remains a signature Apple feature across both models. However, the Pro 2 incorporates additional sensors for enhanced touch controls.
Stem Controls and Voice Assistance
AirPods users can easily manage their audio experience through intuitive stem controls. These controls allow for basic playback functions, track navigation, and call management. Users simply press or hold the stems to perform various actions.
Voice assistance is another key feature across AirPods models. Hands-free Siri activation enables users to make requests without touching their devices. A new gesture-based interaction has been introduced for certain AirPods models. Users can nod their head for “yes” or shake it for “no” when responding to Siri’s questions.
This head gesture feature adapts to individual users over time. Initially, more deliberate movements are required. As the system learns, subtler gestures become effective. This personalization enhances the user experience and makes interactions more natural.
• Stem controls:
- Play/pause
- Skip tracks
- Answer calls
• Voice assistance:
- Hands-free Siri activation
- Head gesture responses (select models)
These control options provide users with flexibility in how they interact with their AirPods.
Sound Quality and Performance
The AirPods 4 deliver impressive audio for open-ear buds. Their rich bass and clear highs stand out in this category. However, the AirPods Pro 2 take the lead with superior sound balance and bass response. This is due to their sealed ear canal design.
Both models use the H2 chip for enhanced audio processing. This chip enables Adaptive Audio, adjusting sound based on the environment. The feature works particularly well on the AirPods Pro 2.
3D Sound Experience
Spatial audio technology enhances listening experiences across AirPods models. This feature creates a three-dimensional soundscape, immersing users in audio content. Head tracking adjusts sound positioning as users move, maintaining a realistic audio environment.
The technology works with various media types, including movies and music. It simulates surround sound, making audio appear to come from different directions. This effect adds depth and realism to audio playback.
AirPods and AirPods Pro both offer personalized spatial audio. Users can customize the feature to their unique ear shape for optimal performance. This personalization improves sound accuracy and overall listening quality.
Battery Performance and Connectivity
AirPods Pro 2 lead the pack in battery longevity. These earbuds offer up to 6 hours of playback with noise cancellation on, or 5.5 hours when using Spatial Audio and Head Tracking. The charging case adds about 24 hours of extra power.
AirPods 4 provide 5 hours of listening time per charge. Their case holds around 25 hours of additional battery life. A quick 5-minute charge yields about an hour of use.
The noise-cancelling version of AirPods 4 has slightly reduced battery life. With ANC on, users get 4 hours of playback. The case supplies 15 extra hours with ANC on, or 25 hours with it off.
All models use Bluetooth 5.3 technology. This ensures stable connections and supports AAC and SBC audio codecs.
Here’s a comparison table:
| Model | Earbud Battery Life | Case Battery Life |
|---|---|---|
| AirPods Pro 2 | 6 hours (ANC on) | 24 hours |
| AirPods 4 | 5 hours | 25 hours |
| AirPods 4 (ANC) | 4 hours (ANC on) | 15 hours (ANC on) |
The AirPods Pro 2 stand out for their superior battery performance. They maintain longer playback times even with power-hungry features like noise cancellation activated.
AirPods 4 have a notably compact charging case. This design choice likely influenced its slightly lower battery capacity compared to the Pro model.
Wireless Charging Options
AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 offer different charging capabilities. The basic AirPods 4 case uses USB-C charging only. In contrast, AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation support both USB-C and wireless charging. This gives users more flexibility in how they power up their devices.
Water and Dust Resistance
The AirPods 4 feature an IP54 rating, offering solid protection against dust and water. This rating indicates the earbuds can withstand light water spray and dust intrusion. The case also shares this IP54 rating, which is uncommon for earbud cases.
AirPods Pro 2 match the IP54 rating of the AirPods 4. Both models provide similar levels of protection for their earbuds and cases.
While these ratings offer some peace of mind, users should note:
- Avoid submerging the earbuds in water
- Don’t rinse them under running water
- Light rain and sweat are generally safe
For those needing truly waterproof earbuds, other options may be more suitable. The IP54 rating provides basic protection for everyday use.
Noise Reduction Technology
AirPods Pro 2 offer superior active noise cancellation (ANC) compared to other models. These earbuds effectively block out unwanted sounds, creating a more immersive listening experience. The ANC technology uses microphones to detect external noise and produces anti-noise waves to cancel it out.
AirPods 4 with ANC also provide noise reduction, but to a lesser degree. Their open design limits their ability to fully isolate sound. Despite this, they still manage to reduce background noise effectively for earbuds without ear tips.
Both models feature Transparency mode. This function allows users to hear their surroundings while wearing the earbuds. It’s useful for safety when walking outdoors or for brief conversations without removing the earbuds.
AirPods Pro 2 include an advanced Conversation Awareness feature. This automatically lowers the volume and enhances voices when the wearer starts speaking. It makes interactions smoother and more natural while using the earbuds.
Users who prioritize noise cancellation should opt for AirPods Pro 2. Those who prefer less ear canal isolation might find AirPods 4 with ANC more comfortable.
Microphones
AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 feature advanced microphone systems. These mics reduce background noise during calls and voice commands. Both models use voice isolation technology to enhance clarity. Users can expect crisp audio transmission in various environments. The microphone quality is comparable across both AirPods versions.
Enhancing Auditory Wellness
The AirPods Pro 2 offer innovative features for hearing health. Users can take a quick five-minute hearing test through the earbuds. This assessment measures hearing ability and presents personalized results. For those with mild to moderate hearing loss, the AirPods Pro 2 can function as hearing aids.
The device adjusts sound output to match each user’s specific hearing profile. This tailoring accounts for differences between left and right ears. Users can also import data from professional audiologist tests for more precise customization.
Activating the hearing aid function is simple. Users enable it in the settings menu after completing the hearing test. Once active, it enhances ambient sound clarity. By default, this feature also modifies audio playback, including music.
For those who prefer unaltered media playback, an option exists to disable this adjustment. Users can maintain hearing assistance for environmental sounds while preserving original audio quality for entertainment.
This hearing health technology is exclusive to the AirPods Pro 2. It sets these earbuds apart from other models in Apple’s lineup. For individuals concerned about hearing wellness, this feature offers significant value.
Choosing the Right AirPods for You
Apple offers two main AirPods options: the AirPods 4 and the AirPods Pro 2. The AirPods 4 come in two versions – standard and with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Budget-conscious buyers may prefer the standard AirPods 4, priced at $129. These offer good sound quality but lack noise cancellation and wireless charging.
For those seeking more features, the AirPods 4 with ANC ($179) provide a middle ground. They offer noise cancellation and a comfortable open fit that allows awareness of surroundings. The AirPods Pro 2 ($249) represent the premium choice. They boast superior noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, and unique health features.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | AirPods 4 | AirPods 4 (ANC) | AirPods Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $129 | $179 | $249 |
| ANC | No | Yes | Yes |
| Fit | Open | Open | In-ear |
| Health features | No | No | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Key Distinctions Between AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4
The AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 have several key differences:
- Design: AirPods Pro 2 use silicone ear tips, while AirPods 4 have an open-ear design.
- Noise cancellation: Pro 2 offer more advanced active noise cancellation.
- Sound quality: Pro 2 generally provide better audio performance.
- Battery life: AirPods 4 offer slightly longer listening time.
- Water resistance: Pro 2 have IPX4 rating, AirPods 4 have IP54 rating.
- Price: AirPods 4 are more affordable than Pro 2.
Noise Cancellation Comparison
AirPods Pro 2 feature more robust active noise cancellation (ANC) than AirPods 4:
- Pro 2 use advanced algorithms and dual beamforming microphones.
- AirPods 4 offer basic ANC capabilities.
- Pro 2 can block up to twice as much ambient noise as AirPods 4.
- Both models include transparency mode for hearing surroundings.
Battery Life Improvements
AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 have similar battery performance:
| Feature | AirPods 4 | AirPods Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Listening time | Up to 6 hours | Up to 6 hours (ANC on) |
| Talk time | Up to 4 hours | Up to 4.5 hours |
| With case | Up to 30 hours | Up to 30 hours |
AirPods 4 have a slight edge in listening time without ANC.
Audio Quality Comparison
AirPods Pro 2 generally offer superior audio quality:
- Enhanced bass response and clearer highs
- Adaptive EQ for optimized sound
- Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
- Custom high-excursion Apple driver and high dynamic range amplifier
AirPods 4 provide good sound quality but lack some advanced features of the Pro 2.
Connectivity and Chip Technology Advancements
Both models use advanced connectivity features:
- H2 chip in AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4
- Bluetooth 5.3 support
- Automatic device switching
- Audio Sharing capability
The H2 chip in Pro 2 enables more advanced noise cancellation and audio processing.
Design Changes and Differences
AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 have distinct design elements:
- AirPods 4: Open-ear design, no silicone tips
- AirPods Pro 2: In-ear design with silicone tips (4 sizes)
- Pro 2 have shorter stems with force sensors
- AirPods 4 feature touch controls on the stems
- Pro 2 case includes a lanyard loop and speaker for Find My alerts
- Both models available in white color
The Pro 2 design aims for a more secure fit and better noise isolation.
