Apple’s AirPods lineup is stronger than it’s ever been, with compelling options at multiple different price points. If you’re exploring which AirPods 4 vs AirPods Pro to buy this holiday season, whether for yourself or someone else, here’s what you need to know.
AirPods 4
AirPods 4 are available in two different versions: a base model and a higher-end option that offers Active Noise Cancellation support.
The base model AirPods 4 give you a lot of the best AirPods features. They feature Apple’s H2 audio chip for seamless connection with all your devices, including automatic device switching, Adaptive EQ, Personalized Volume, and more.
AirPods 4 with ANC, however, take things to the next level. In addition to noise cancellation itself, the higher-end AirPods 4 configuration also offersAdaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Transparency mode.
The AirPods 4 with ANC also come with a more capable charging case. While the base model charges via USB-C, the higher-end model also supports wireless charging and includes a built-in speaker for Find My. So if you misplace your AirPods 4 charging case, you play a sound with the case to find it.
Feature AirPods 4 AirPods 4 with ANC Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) No Yes: ANC + Transparency + Conversation Awareness Case Charging Options USB-C wired charging only USB-C + wireless charging (Qi + Apple Watch chargers) Case Speaker (Find My) No Yes: built-in speaker for Find My alerts Case Precision Finding Standard Find My support Enhanced Precision Finding Battery Life (earbuds) Up to 5 hours Up to 4 hours with ANC on (5 hours with ANC off) Total Battery (with case) Up to 30 hours Up to 20 hours with ANC on (30 hours with ANC off) Price (retail) $129 $179
AirPods 4 vs AirPods 4 with ANC: Which should you buy?
Both of these are excellent options. AirPods 4 with ANC, however, really impress me. They feature an open-ear design, yet are still able to block out the noise around you. This is great for people who want ANC features, but who don’t like the in-ear design of AirPods 4.
But while AirPods 4 with ANC would be my recommendation to most people reading this, you can’t go wrong with the standard AirPods 4. They’re still great, and they’re especially compelling at their sub-$100 sale price on Amazon.
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