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Writer's pictureThe Bulldog Inquirer

Airpods 4 Review: A Pleasant Surprise

Updated: Nov 7

Current Events

Paul Burgess


The new Apple AirPods 4 were unveiled in Apple’s ‘Glowtime’ event this past September

have generated lots of hype and confusion around them. I would like to cut through the

confusion to give a worthwhile review for prospective buyers.


The AirPods 4 were released in two very similar but distinct models, the AirPods 4 with

active noise cancellation (ANC) and the version without ANC. These models provide consumers with a choice between a more premium feature set or a more budget-friendly

option while still having the same foundation. The ANC model is priced at $179, while the

non-ANC model costs $129. Apple kept the price of the ANC model the same as the launch

price of the AirPods 3, which is impressive given the recent price hikes to many other

wireless earbuds like the Galaxy Buds3 which had a price increase of thirty dollars over its

predecessor. Though the price difference on the AirPods primarily reflects the inclusion of

ANC, there are other subtle differences between the two models that prospective buyers

should consider.


For instance, the model with ANC comes equipped with a Qi-capable charging case,

allowing for wireless charging and compatibility with Apple Watch chargers, making it

highly convenient for users within the Apple ecosystem. On the other hand, the non-ANC

model features a regular charging case without Qi wireless charging capabilities, requiring

users to depend on the USB-C cable without the extra flexibility that wireless charging

allows.

(Apple, 2024)


Both models are considered to be a side grade from the MagSafe charging case that was

introduced as an optional upgrade for the AirPods 3. While MagSafe offered a more

streamlined and efficient wireless charging solution, it still utilized Apple’s proprietary

Lightning cable for wired charging, rather than transitioning to the more universally adopted

USB-C standard.


Perhaps the most significant internal upgrade in both AirPods 4 models is the transition

from the H1 chip, which was found in the older AirPods 2 and 3, to the more advanced H2

chip. The H2 chip had previously only been available in the higher-end AirPods Pro 2, but

now brings improved audio processing, connectivity, and overall performance to the

AirPods 4. This chip upgrade allows for ‘Voice isolation’ and ‘Personalized volume’ both of

which are major improvements for the AirPods 4 over previous models. Another

improvement is the addition of an upgraded vent system for pressure equalization which

further improves sound quality. (Apple, n.d.) Apple has touted the AirPods 4 as their ‘best

fitting AirPods ever’ (Apple, n.d.-a), boasting improvements in ergonomics and fit that could

appeal to a wide range of users. However, some consumers may still prefer the silicone ear

tips of the AirPods Pro, which create a better sound barrier for noise cancellation and tend

to fit more securely in the ear than the standard design of the regular AirPods.


One downside to using ANC on the AirPods 4 is the impact on the device’s battery life.

While the non-ANC version offers up to five hours of playback, enabling ANC on the

premium model reduces this to four hours. (Apple, n.d.) Though this could be considered a

minimal reduction for most users, it could be a consideration for users who prioritize

battery life over the active noise cancellation.


In terms of usability enhancements, a notable improvement over the AirPods 3 is the

addition of a speaker built into the case of both AirPods 4 models. This small but valuable

feature is useful for locating the AirPods case using the Find My app, a particularly handy

tool for users prone to misplacing their devices. Personally, I was surprised with the

upgrades without a price hike especially considering the inflation from over the last few

years that has made many other technology products increase their prices to keep their

margins high. Overall, the AirPods 4 lineup brings several enhancements that improve upon

the previous generation, while also giving many people more flexibility in choosing a model

that best fits their preferences and budget.


Citations:

1. Apple. (n.d.-a). AirPods 4. https://www.apple.com/airpods-4/

2. Apple. (n.d.). AirPods 4 - Technical Specifications. https://www.apple.com/airpods-

4/specs/

3. Apple. (2024, September 9). Apple Event - September 9 [Video]. YouTube.

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