Apple’s latest iteration of its iconic wireless earbuds brings significant improvements to the table. The AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) strikes an impressive balance between the accessibility of regular AirPods and the premium features of the AirPods Pro, making them a compelling option for Apple users looking to upgrade their audio experience.
Specifications
- Dimensions: Smaller and lighter than previous standard AirPods
- Chip: H2 chip for improved processing and connectivity
- Battery Life: Up to 6 hours with ANC on, 8 hours with ANC off
- Charging Case: Up to 30 hours total listening time, USB-C connectivity
- Sound: Custom-built driver and amplifier for rich, detailed audio
- Water Resistance: IPX4 sweat and water resistant (both earbuds and case)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, automatic device switching across Apple devices
- Sensors: Skin-detection sensor, motion-detecting accelerometer, speech-detecting accelerometer
- Controls: Capacitive touch controls with force sensor
Key Features
Active Noise Cancellation
For the first time in the standard AirPods line, Apple has included true Active Noise Cancellation. While not quite as robust as the Pro model, the ANC effectively reduces ambient noise to create a more immersive listening experience.
Adaptive EQ
The earbuds automatically tune music to your ear shape, optimizing the audio experience for your unique physiology.
Spatial Audio with Dynamic Head Tracking
Experience three-dimensional sound that adjusts as you move your head, creating a theater-like experience for compatible content.
Personalized Spatial Audio
Using the TrueDepth camera on your iPhone, the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC can create a personal profile for more accurate spatial audio tuned specifically to your ear shape.
Improved Fit
The redesigned shape offers a more secure fit than previous standard AirPods without requiring silicone tips, striking a balance between comfort and stability.
Pros
- Excellent Sound Quality: The redesigned acoustic architecture delivers rich, balanced sound with impressive clarity and depth for open-ear design earbuds.
- Effective ANC: While not as isolating as in-ear designs, the noise cancellation is remarkably effective for an open-ear design.
- Comfortable Fit: The lightweight design and absence of silicone tips make these comfortable for extended wear.
- Seamless Apple Integration: Quick pairing, automatic device switching, and “Hey Siri” functionality make these perfect for Apple ecosystem users.
- Improved Battery Life: A significant upgrade from previous standard AirPods, especially with ANC disabled.
- Case Upgrades: The USB-C charging case with better water resistance and Find My support is a welcome improvement.
Cons
- Price: At a higher price point than previous standard AirPods, they represent a significant investment.
- Limited Android Compatibility: While they work with Android devices as standard Bluetooth earbuds, many special features are Apple-exclusive.
- ANC Not as Strong as Pro: The open-ear design naturally limits noise isolation compared to the sealed design of AirPods Pro.
- No Wireless Charging: Unlike the Pro model, the standard case doesn’t support wireless charging.
- Limited Physical Controls: The touch controls, while improved, don’t offer the same level of functionality as some competitors.
Who Should Buy?
The Apple AirPods 4 with ANC are ideal for:
- Apple Ecosystem Users: If you’re invested in Apple products, these offer the seamless integration you’d expect.
- Comfort-Focused Listeners: Those who find in-ear designs uncomfortable but still want noise cancellation.
- Casual Audiophiles: Users who appreciate good sound quality but don’t need the absolute best noise isolation.
- All-Day Wearers: People who keep earbuds in for extended periods will appreciate the comfortable, pressure-free design.
- Upgraders: If you’re coming from original AirPods or AirPods 2, these represent a significant improvement in almost every aspect.
They’re less suitable for hardcore audiophiles demanding the absolute best sound isolation or those who primarily use Android devices.
Takeaways for Apple AirPods 4 with ANC
The AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation represent Apple’s most balanced earbuds yet. They successfully bridge the gap between the basic AirPods and the premium AirPods Pro, offering many pro-level features in a more comfortable, open-ear design.
For Apple users seeking quality wireless earbuds with noise cancellation but without the sealed-in feeling of in-ear models, these are an excellent choice. The improved sound quality, battery life, and the addition of ANC make them a worthy upgrade even for existing AirPods owners.
While not perfect – particularly for Android users or those seeking complete noise isolation – the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC provide an impressive listening experience that will satisfy most users’ everyday audio needs.
