GoKawiilChoosing between AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3 was already mostly a question of fit, features, and price. Apple is also developing camera-equipped AirPods with Visual Intelligence, but they are not expected to arrive until 2027 at the soonest. That could make waiting an awfully long proposition.
AirPods 4 prioritize comfort and value with options
AirPods 4 use an open-ear design, making them easy to recommend if you dislike ear tips. Our AirPods 4 review found the redesigned shape comfortable without sacrificing everyday convenience.
The $129 model includes Apple’s H2 chip, Personalized Spatial Audio, and up to five hours of listening. However, it lacks ANC, Transparency mode, and wireless charging.
The $179 model adds useful noise cancellation without plugging your ears, plus Adaptive Audio, Transparency mode, and a wireless charging case with a Find My speaker.
The open design still lets in more environmental sound, making its ANC less effective on airplanes and public transportation.
AirPods Pro 3 offer the complete package
AirPods Pro 3 cost $249 from Apple, although Amazon regularly discounts them. Their foam-infused tips provide stronger bass and considerably better noise cancellation. Apple rates them for up to eight hours with ANC, compared with four hours for AirPods 4 with ANC.
They can measure heart rate during workouts and support Apple’s Hearing Test, Hearing Aid, and Hearing Protection features. Our AirPods Pro 3 review found their workout heart-rate readings largely consistent with Apple Watch data.
Meanwhile, iOS 27 adds Custom EQ across both models, while AirPods Pro 3 gain extra benefits from their heart-rate sensor and newer charging case.
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