At its September event for iPhones, Apple introduced two new AirPods models for the first time. The AirPods 4 comes with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and is priced at $180, while the AirPods 4 without ANC is priced at $130. This marks Apple’s debut in offering ANC with an open-ear design, as it had previously only provided noise cancellation on the in-ear AirPods Pros. The main differences between the two models are the presence of ANC, support for wireless charging, and a speaker in the case for Find My alerts on the high-end AirPods 4. Most users are expected to opt for the ANC feature, making it a key selling point for these new AirPods.
The AirPods 4 with ANC have received mixed reviews. While the ANC is effective with low-end sounds and the force sensor on the stems is easier to navigate than a touch sensor, the buds suffer from short battery life, a loose fit, and underwhelming noise cancellation for high-frequency sounds. In comparison, the AirPods Pros, with their silicone in-ear tips, offer better ANC due to their ability to completely block the ear canals.
In terms of design, the charging case for the AirPods 4 has been trimmed down compared to the AirPods Pros, making it more compact and square-shaped. However, the case no longer features a lanyard loop, which may disappoint some users. The pairing button on the case has also been replaced by a touch-capacitive sensor, which is easy to locate but may take some getting used to for those accustomed to physical buttons.
Fit is a significant issue with the AirPods 4, as many users have reported a loose fit that requires frequent adjustments. The absence of rubber ear tips contributes to this problem, making the buds less secure in the ears. It is recommended to test the fit in person before making a purchase, especially for users who prefer a snugger fit.
Controls on the AirPods 4 include force sensors on the stems, which provide tactile feedback and help prevent accidental taps. While the gestures are intuitive, the lack of onboard volume controls may be inconvenient for some users who prefer quick access to volume adjustments.
Overall, the sound quality of the AirPods 4 is good, with clear highs and sufficient mids. However, the lack of deep lows and immersive sound compared to the Pros may be a drawback for audiophiles. The ANC feature works well for low-end noise but may not be as effective for high-frequency sounds. Users looking for an on-ear ANC option may find the AirPods 4 to be a suitable choice, despite some drawbacks in fit and sound quality.