Apple AirPods 4

Design and Comfort

The AirPods 4 showcase a refined design with updated earbud contours, providing a more secure and comfortable fit for a wider range of ear shapes. This ergonomic enhancement ensures that users can wear the earbuds for extended periods without discomfort, making them suitable for various activities, from casual listening to intense workouts.

A notable change is the shorter stem, which not only contributes to a sleeker appearance but also incorporates Force Touch controls. This design allows for intuitive management of playback, calls, and ANC settings with simple presses, reducing accidental activations that were more common with tap-based controls in earlier models.

Durability has been improved with an IP54 rating, offering resistance against dust, sweat, and water. This upgrade makes the AirPods 4 more robust for daily use, especially during workouts or in varying weather conditions. The charging case has also been redesigned to be more compact and now features a USB-C port, aligning with modern charging standards and enhancing convenience for users with multiple devices.

However, the shift to a smaller charging case has led to the removal of magnets for MagSafe charging compatibility. While the case supports Qi and Apple Watch chargers, users accustomed to MagSafe’s magnetic alignment may need to adjust to this change.

Audio Performance & Active Noise Cancellation

The integration of Apple’s H2 chip in the AirPods 4 brings a substantial leap in audio quality and processing capabilities. Users can expect richer bass, clearer mids, and crisp highs, delivering a balanced and immersive listening experience across various genres and media types.

A standout feature is the inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). This technology allows users to immerse themselves fully in their audio by reducing ambient noise, a feature previously reserved for the Pro line. For those who prefer awareness of their surroundings, the Transparency Mode offers a seamless way to let external sounds in without removing the earbuds.

The Personalized Spatial Audio feature, powered by dynamic head tracking, creates a theater-like soundstage. This immersive experience adjusts audio based on head movements, making media consumption more engaging. Additionally, Voice Isolation enhances call quality by focusing on the user’s voice and minimizing background noise, ensuring clear communication even in bustling environments.

While these features elevate the audio experience, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of ANC and Spatial Audio can vary based on individual ear anatomy and fit. Users may need to adjust the earbuds to achieve optimal performance.

Battery Life & Charging

The AirPods 4 offer competitive battery performance, providing up to 6 hours of continuous listening on a single charge with ANC enabled. This duration is sufficient for daily commutes, workouts, or extended listening sessions. For calls, users can expect up to 4.5 hours of talk time.

The redesigned charging case extends the total listening time to 30 hours, allowing multiple recharges before needing to plug in. The transition to a USB-C charging port reflects Apple’s move towards universal charging solutions, simplifying the experience for users with other USB-C devices.

Despite the compact size of the charging case, it supports Qi wireless charging and is compatible with Apple Watch chargers, offering versatile charging options. However, the absence of MagSafe compatibility due to the removal of alignment magnets may be a drawback for users who appreciated the convenience of magnetic attachment.

A quick 5-minute charge in the case provides approximately 1 hour of listening time, which is beneficial for users needing a rapid power boost. While the battery life is robust, heavy users or those on extended trips may still need to carry the charging case to ensure uninterrupted usage.

 Value & Who Should Buy It?

The AirPods 4 position themselves as a compelling choice for users seeking advanced features without opting for the Pro line. Priced at $129 for the standard model and $179 for the noise-canceling version, they offer a balance between cost and functionality.