Apple AirPods 4: A Comprehensive Review of the Latest Earbuds with Active Noise Cancelling

Introduction: Apple Unveils Two New AirPods Models 🎧

Apple’s recent event introduced two new models of the AirPods 4 series, each with unique features aimed at enhancing the listening experience. In addition to these new earbuds, Apple has also unveiled some fresh color options for the AirPods Max. This blog will meticulously review the AirPods 4, their specifications, features, and performance, especially focusing on the models with active noise cancelling (ANC), and compare them to previous versions.

Initial Impressions of the AirPods 4 Models 🔍

Both Models Come with the New H2 Chip

Design and Size: Both models of the AirPods 4 are equipped with Apple’s latest H2 chip and boast a slightly smaller design compared to the AirPods 3. The compact design enhances usability and convenience while maintaining the sophisticated look Apple products are known for.

• New H2 chip in both models
• Smaller than AirPods 3
• More compact case

Price Tag: Affordable Yet Feature-Packed

These models cater to a broad range of users with their competitive pricing. You can choose between:

• Entry-Level Model: $129
• AirPods 4 with ANC: $179

The $50 price difference between the two models brings substantial differences in features, as we’ll explore further.

Upgrade from AirPods Pro 2: What Sets the AirPods 4 with ANC Apart? 🔄

Given the active noise cancelling feature, the AirPods 4 with ANC can be seen as an evolution of the AirPods Pro 2, yet they bring something new to the table with their open ear design.

Active Noise Cancelling and Enhanced Audio Features

The AirPods 4 with ANC come with several advanced features that elevate the user experience:

• Active Noise Cancelling: Filters out low-frequency noise effectively
• Conversation Awareness Mode
• Transparency Mode
• Adaptive Audio

These features distinguish the ANC model from the entry-level AirPods 4, providing users with a more immersive and controlled audio experience.

Improved Case Features

The case for the AirPods 4 with ANC boasts numerous functional upgrades:

• Speaker for location tracking through emitted sounds
• Wireless charging compatible with Qi pads
• Compatibility with Apple Watch charging pad
• USBC charging across all AirPods 4 models

These innovations emphasize Apple’s commitment to convenience and user-friendliness, ensuring your devices are always ready to go.

Overall Design: The size and shape of the AirPods 4 make them more versatile and likely to fit a greater variety of ears than their predecessors.

Testing the Active Noise Cancelling Feature 🎤

During the event, I had the opportunity to test the ANC feature firsthand. Here’s a detailed breakdown of my experience:

Performance in Noisy Environments

The AirPods 4 with ANC stood out in a bustling room, proving their capability to filter out low-frequency noise effectively. Although the performance isn’t on par with the AirPods Pro 2, they still manage to provide a decent level of quiet amidst the din of an air-conditioned environment or similar low drone noises.

• Effective in noisy settings
• Better for lower frequencies
• Not as robust as AirPods Pro 2’s ANC

The fact that these are open earbuds makes their noise cancelling ability all the more impressive, offering a significant advantage to users preferring open designs.

Battery Life Expectancy

While the battery life remains consistent with previous models, it maintains sufficient longevity for various uses:

• Up to 5 hours without ANC
• Up to 4 hours with ANC

Unfortunately, despite advancements in other areas, battery performance hasn’t seen significant improvement, maintaining the status quo with the previous generation.

Choosing Between the Entry-Level Model and the ANC Model 🤔

Which Model is Right for You?

Deciding between the two models boils down to the value you place on advanced features. Key differentiators include:

• $50 price difference
• ANC and additional audio features
• Enhanced charging case

For many, the active noise cancelling capabilities will justify the additional cost, particularly if you’re often in noisy environments or desire a more controlled audio experience. The entry-level model still serves admirably for those with simpler requirements.

A Brief Note on the New AirPods Max 🎨

While the focus of this blog is primarily on the AirPods 4, it’s worth mentioning the updates to the AirPods Max. Unfortunately, they were not the anticipated AirPods Max 2:

Minor Upgrades and New Designs

The path Apple has taken here involves mostly cosmetic changes with a few functional tweaks:

• USBC charging added
• New color options: including blue and peach
• No H2 chip integration

Despite these changes, the AirPods Max remain priced at $549 and don’t introduce significant new features or performance improvements.

Concluding Thoughts on the AirPods 4 📈

Apple’s ongoing innovation in the field of personal audio once again shines through with the new AirPods 4 models. With options catering to both budget-conscious consumers and those looking for advanced ANC features, there’s something for everyone.

Key Highlights:

• Both models come with the new H2 chip
• Compact design likely to fit more users
• Enhanced features and case for ANC model
• Competitive battery life
• Clear distinction between entry-level and ANC models

These earbuds signify a significant step forward in technological versatility and user convenience. Whether you opt for the basic model or the version with active noise cancelling, you’re bound to gain from Apple’s latest audio innovations.