Apple's AirPods didn't just create a product; they created a cultural phenomenon. With the AirPods 4, Apple isn't reinventing the wheel but meticulously refining it, focusing on meaningful upgrades in sound quality, noise cancellation, and user comfort.
In a market flooded with competitors, the AirPods 4 aim to reclaim the throne not with flashy gimmicks, but with the seamless integration and polished experience that users expect from Apple. This review breaks down whether these subtle but significant improvements justify the upgrade and solidify their place as the go-to wireless earbuds.
PROS
- Vastly improved audio quality
- Next-level Active Noise Cancellation
- More secure and comfortable fit
- Longer battery life
CONS
- No on-stem volume control
- USB-C case is now standard
- Price increase from previous model
Apple AirPods 4
A major leap forward in sound and silence, the AirPods 4 are a must-have for iPhone users seeking a premium audio experience.
Design and Fit: A Familiar Tune with a New Rhythm
Apple has taken an "if it ain't broke" approach to the AirPods 4 design, retaining the iconic stemmed look. However, the stems are now slightly shorter and more contoured, borrowing cues from the Pro line. The biggest change is the introduction of a new hybrid design that sits more securely in the ear canal without requiring a full silicone seal for all users. The standard model now comes with three sizes of optional silicone tips, ensuring a customizable and secure fit for a much wider range of ear shapes. This addresses one of the biggest complaints of previous generations, providing better passive noise isolation and ensuring they stay put during a workout.
Audio Quality and ANC: Silence is Golden
This is where the AirPods 4 truly shine. Powered by the new H3 chip, the audio architecture has been completely overhauled. New custom-built, low-distortion drivers deliver richer bass, crisper highs, and a significantly wider soundstage. Vocals and instruments have a clarity and separation that was previously reserved for the Pro models. Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking feels more immersive than ever. The real game-changer, however, is the addition of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Using a new array of microphones, the ANC on the AirPods 4 is shockingly effective, silencing commute rumbles and office chatter to a degree that rivals many over-ear headphones. It's a premium feature that makes these earbuds incredibly versatile.
Smart Features and Battery Life: Seamlessly Integrated
The H3 chip also enhances connectivity, providing a rock-solid Bluetooth 5.3 connection and enabling seamless, instantaneous switching between Apple devices. The new Adaptive Transparency mode is brilliant, dampening harsh noises over 85dB in real-time while still allowing you to hear your surroundings. Battery life sees a welcome boost, now offering up to 7 hours of listening time on a single charge with ANC off, and a total of 35 hours with the redesigned USB-C charging case. It’s a full day of power and then some, ensuring your music doesn't stop before you do.
With class-leading noise cancellation and a sound profile that punches well above its weight, the AirPods 4 are a powerful audio statement in a tiny package.
The Verdict: The New King of Wireless Audio?
The AirPods 4 represent a significant leap forward. By bringing Pro-level features like Active Noise Cancellation and a customizable fit to the standard model, Apple has created a compelling package that is hard to beat. The improvements in audio quality are not subtle; they are substantial and immediately noticeable.
For anyone with an iPhone and a desire for a premium, hassle-free audio experience, the AirPods 4 are an enthusiastic recommendation and a worthy upgrade. They may not reinvent the category, but they have perfected the formula, setting a new, very high bar for the competition.