Apple’s AirPods lineup has evolved over the years, with each iteration introducing new features and improvements. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the latest AirPods 4, comparing them to the previous models: AirPods 2, AirPods 3, and the AirPods Pro 2. The focus will be on key areas such as fit, sound quality, active noise cancellation (ANC), microphone performance, and pricing.
Table of Contents
AirPods 4: Key Features
The AirPods 4 come with several upgrades that set them apart from their predecessors. There are three standout features worth mentioning:
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): For the first time, Apple’s standard AirPods come with active noise cancellation, a feature previously exclusive to the AirPods Pro.
- H2 Chip: The addition of the H2 chip not only supports ANC but also improves audio quality, enabling a richer sound experience.
- New Shape and Fit: The redesigned shape of the AirPods 4 makes them more comfortable and secure compared to previous models.
The Fit: A Significant Improvement
When Apple introduced the AirPods 3, they redesigned the shape, making them more bulbous. While the new design had some advantages, many users, including the reviewer, found it less comfortable than the previous models, especially in the ear’s fit and stability.
The AirPods 4 have addressed this issue by refining the shape. The new design feels more like the AirPods 1 and 2 in terms of how easily they fit into the ear and how secure they feel, while still maintaining the benefits of a larger ear tip. The comfort level is significantly better, especially during extended use.
Apple claims that the new design was achieved through advanced 3D imaging and laser scanning of thousands of ear shapes. While initially skeptical about this claim, the reviewer notes a noticeable difference in comfort, which supports the effectiveness of the new design.
No Rubber Seal, but Still Impressive Sound Quality
Historically, Apple’s Pro models have used a rubber seal for a better audio experience. This seal blocks outside noise and helps with bass response. The AirPods 4, however, do not feature this seal. Despite this, they still manage to deliver a solid audio experience, especially considering that many other ANC earbuds rely on the rubber seal for optimal performance.
The sound quality on the AirPods 4 is a noticeable step up from the AirPods 3. The mids and highs are well-balanced, but the biggest improvement is in the bass. The reviewer mentions that the AirPods 4 offer a richer and more present bass compared to the AirPods 3, which struggled in this area.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): A Game-Changer
One of the most impressive features of the AirPods 4 is their active noise cancellation. Unlike most ANC earbuds that rely on a rubber seal, the AirPods 4 manage to block out significant external noise using just their unique design and advanced audio capabilities.
Low-frequency sounds, such as the hum of an airplane engine or a refrigerator, are significantly muted, providing a quieter listening experience. Higher-frequency sounds, like children playing or conversations, are still somewhat audible but reduced when compared to the AirPods 3.
That being said, the AirPods Pro 2 still outperform the AirPods 4 when it comes to ANC, especially in cancelling out higher-frequency sounds. The passive seal on the Pro 2 models helps in this regard, giving them an edge in overall noise cancellation performance.
Sound Quality Comparison
When it comes to sound quality, AirPods 4 offers a great balance between the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro 2. While the sound quality of the AirPods Pro 2 is still superior, especially in terms of bass and overall depth, the AirPods 4 provide an excellent listening experience for their price.
The sound is more balanced than the AirPods 3, with a significant improvement in bass response. However, the AirPods Pro 2 still have the edge in lower frequencies due to their better drivers and the rubber seal, which enhances their ability to block out sound and provide clearer audio.
Microphone Quality: A Closer Look
The microphone performance of the AirPods 4 is another area worth discussing. To put it to the test, the reviewer compares the microphones of the AirPods 2, AirPods 3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Pro 2 in a simulated noisy environment.
The AirPods 4, with their newer H2 chip, perform well in filtering out ambient noise, producing clearer voice recordings than both the AirPods 2 and AirPods 3. The AirPods Pro 2, which also use the H2 chip, take the lead with slightly better microphone quality, likely due to more advanced components.
Charging Case: A More Compact and Modern Design
The AirPods 4 come with a new, smaller charging case compared to previous models. This case features USB-C charging, which is a welcome change. However, there are a few notable differences when compared to the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro 2 cases:
- The light indicator on the case is now invisible until activated, which is a subtle but interesting design change.
- The physical button on the back of previous cases has been replaced with a touch-sensitive area that serves as an input for manual connections or resetting the earbuds.
- The case now has a built-in speaker that plays a chime to help locate the earbuds if they are lost.
However, unlike the AirPods Pro 2, the AirPods 4 case lacks magnetic charging capabilities, meaning it won’t snap onto a MagSafe charger. This is a minor inconvenience but does not significantly impact functionality.
Pricing and Value: Are They Worth It?
The AirPods 4 are priced higher than competing products from other brands, but they offer excellent value for those already within the Apple ecosystem. The seamless connectivity between Apple devices and the convenience of switching between them is a significant advantage for users invested in Apple’s products.
However, when it comes to raw audio quality and features, there are many competitive products on the market that may outperform the AirPods 4 in certain areas, especially in terms of sound clarity and noise cancellation.
Article Summary
The AirPods 4 represent a significant step forward for Apple’s standard wireless earbuds. They provide a great balance of sound quality, fit, and functionality, with some impressive new features like ANC and the H2 chip. While they don’t quite match the AirPods Pro 2 in terms of noise cancellation and bass response, they offer a better fit and a more comfortable experience than the AirPods 3. For users who prioritize comfort and sound quality in a compact design, the AirPods 4 are a great option. If you need top-tier ANC and superior sound quality, the AirPods Pro 2 may still be the better choice, but the AirPods 4 provide excellent value, especially for Apple enthusiasts.
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