AirPods 4 Complete Review: All Features, Updates, Price, and Pros & Cons

Apple has introduced the AirPods 4. This is their latest update to the wireless earbuds. At their Last event on September 9, 2024. For the first time, Apple has released two particular form versions for the masses: a standard model priced at $129 and a higher version priced at $179 that brings Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to an open-style design.

In this blog post, we are going to investigate the highlights, plan, and key overhauls of the AirPods 4, as well as a pros and cons segment to assist you in case these are the earbuds for you. Whether you’re searching for way better sound quality, made strides in usefulness, or a feasible plan, this post will cover it all!

AirPods 4 Features at a Glance

Below is a table highlighting the key features of the AirPods 4:

Feature	Standard Model ($129)	ANC Model ($179)
Chip	H2	H2
Audio Quality	Personalized Spatial Audio	Personalized Spatial Audio
Noise Cancellation	No	Yes (Active Noise Cancellation)
Adaptive Audio	Yes	Yes
Transparency Mode	Yes	Yes
Conversation Awareness	Yes	Yes
Charging Case	Wired USB-C	Wireless + Speaker for Find My
Battery Life	Up to 30 hours	Up to 30 hours
Water Resistance	Yes (IPX4)	Yes (IPX4)
Charging Options	USB-C	USB-C + Wireless Charging
Siri Interaction	Yes	Yes
Case Speaker for Find My	No	Yes

 

Design and Build Quality

• The charging case is now over 10% smaller by volume compared to the previous generation, while keeping charging speeds intact.

• For the ANC model, the case now includes a speaker, so in Find My mode, the case can play sound to help you locate it.

• Both models now use USB-C charging (the standard version does not support wireless charging).

• Apple maintains its push on sustainability: AirPods 4 use recycled materials (magnets, gold plating, solder, etc.).

• The fit is refined: Apple claims more people will get a better fit due to the new internal architecture and contour.

Performance and Features

The AirPods 4 are prepared with Apple’s capable H2 chip, which empowers an array of smart features designed to enhance tuning in the encounter. Both models back Personalized Spatial Sound, which tailors the sound encounter to the user’s ear shape, giving a more immersive and clear sound.

Active Noise Cancellation

For the first time, Apple has added Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to an open-style earbud in the $179 model of AirPods 4. Apple says it can cut down background sounds without needing silicone tips, something that has been tricky for rivals like Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 3. It works well for busy streets and noisy places, but it won’t fully block out sound the way in-ear models like the AirPods Pro can.

Adaptive Audio and Transparency Mode

Both AirPods 4 models include Adaptive Audio, which automatically adjusts sound levels based on where you are. Transparency Mode also returns, letting you hear what’s happening around you while enjoying your music. On top of that, Conversation Awareness lowers the volume and focuses on voices when you start talking, so chatting feels more natural.

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Improved Sound and Battery Life

Apple has redesigned the inside acoustics for clearer and stronger sound quality. Both versions promise up to 30 hours of battery life with the case. They charge through USB-C, while the ANC model also supports wireless charging for extra convenience.

Siri Integration and Smart Features

Siri is now even more integrated with AirPods 4. You can use it for hands-free commands, sending messages, or making calls. Plus, the ANC model’s case has a built-in speaker that works with Find My, making it easier to locate your lost earbuds by sound.

Pros and Cons of AirPods 4

Pros:

• ANC + open-ear design is now real in the ANC model

• Strong improvements in sound thanks to the H2 chip and tuning

• Adaptive Audio, Transparency, and Conversation Awareness all help usability

• Up to 30 hours of battery with the case

• Smaller, lighter charging case

• USB-C support across the line

• Wireless charging & Find My speaker in ANC version

• Sustainability efforts built in

• New features like Live Translation add value

Cons / Limitations:

• ANC in open-ear may not fully match in-ear performance in very noisy places

• The standard model lacks wireless charging and ANC

• Without silicone tips, the fit might not work for everyone

• Wireless charging and the Find My speaker are limited to the ANC model

• Noise isolation is limited on e.g. flights or loud transport, performance may be modest

• Some features (Live Translation, other advanced features) only work in certain regions or with compatible iPhones

Are AirPods 4 Packed With All New Features?

The AirPods 4 bring big upgrades, especially with Active Noise Cancellation in an open-ear design. Apple has also added features from the Pro, like Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness, making the experience smoother. If you like the comfort of open-ear buds but still want decent noise control in busy places, the ANC version could be a real game-changer.

However, for clients looking for add up to clamor confinement or higher sound quality, the AirPods Master might still be their better alternative due to their in-ear design with silicone tips.

Conclusion

With AirPods 4, Apple has pushed into new territory: bringing ANC to a non-in-ear (open-ear) design at a consumer level. That alone marks a major shift in how earbuds can evolve. The standard and ANC models now give users a choice between simplicity and premium features.

If you want some ANC but prefer not to deal with ear tips, the ANC model is compelling. But if full noise isolation or heavy noise environments matter most, premium in-ear models may still outperform.

Overall, AirPods 4 are a meaningful update with stronger audio, better integration, meaningful new features, and a more sustainable design. They’re worth considering if you’re upgrading your earbuds; just choose the version that fits your listening needs.

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