Apple’s AirPods have long been a staple in the wireless earbud market, appealing to a broad audience with their comfort,simplicity, and seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem. However, for those seeking a more immersive listening experience with active noise cancellation (ANC), the open-ear design of traditional AirPods has always posed a challenge.Enter the AirPods 4 with ANC, Apple’s audacious attempt to blend the best of both worlds: the comfort and situational awareness of an open-ear design with the noise-canceling capabilities of their flagship AirPods Pro.
After testing, I’m ready to share my in-depth review of the AirPods 4, both the standard and ANC models. We’ll delve into the intricacies of their design, audio quality, ANC performance, features, battery life, and overall value, ultimately answering the burning question: has Apple finally cracked the code for open-ear ANC?
Design: Subtle Refinements, Classic AirPods Aesthetic
From a visual standpoint, the AirPods 4 won’t surprise anyone familiar with Apple’s earbuds. The iconic white aesthetic remains, and the overall shape and contours are reminiscent of the AirPods 3. However, keen eyes will notice subtle refinements that contribute to a more comfortable and secure fit. The charging case has also shrunk down slightly, making it even more pocket-friendly.
One notable change is the inclusion of a USB-C port on the charging case, finally embracing the industry standard and aligning with Apple’s recent shift towards USB-C on its other devices. However, the lack of color options might disappoint some users who crave a bit more personalization.
Overall, the AirPods 4 retain the familiar AirPods look and feel, prioritizing comfort and a snug fit while incorporating modern conveniences like USB-C charging.
Audio Quality: Apple’s Best Open-Ear Sound Yet
Both the standard and ANC versions of the AirPods 4 deliver impressive sound quality, a clear step up from their predecessors. Powered by Apple’s H2 chip, the AirPods 4 produce a well-balanced sound signature with a focus on clarity and detail.
The bass response is noticeably improved compared to previous generations, providing a satisfying punch without overpowering the mids and highs. Instrument separation is excellent, allowing you to clearly distinguish individual elements within a complex mix. The treble is crisp and well-defined, lending a sense of airiness and sparkle to the overall sound.
While audiophiles might still prefer the slightly more refined sound of the AirPods Pro, the AirPods 4 offer a thoroughly enjoyable listening experience that will please most users. The improved audio performance, combined with the comfort of the open-ear design, makes them ideal for extended listening sessions.
Active Noise Cancellation: Surprisingly Effective
The AirPods 4 with ANC are the stars of the show, introducing active noise cancellation to Apple’s open-ear earbuds for the first time. The technology works similarly to the AirPods Pro, utilizing microphones to analyze ambient noise and generate anti-noise to counteract it. However, without the natural noise isolation provided by silicone ear tips, the ANC faces a unique challenge.
In real-world testing, the ANC performance surprised me. While it doesn’t create the same cocoon of silence as the AirPods Pro, it significantly reduces the intensity of low-frequency sounds like airplane engines, traffic noise, and office hums. In quieter environments, you’ll still hear some ambient noise, but once the music starts playing, the ANC does a remarkable job of keeping distractions at bay.
The AirPods 4 with ANC truly excel at allowing you to enjoy your music at lower volume levels, even in moderately noisy environments. This has significant benefits for hearing health, as prolonged exposure to loud sounds can lead to hearing damage.
However, it’s important to set realistic expectations. The AirPods 4 with ANC won’t completely block out the world around you. In loud environments like crowded bars or busy streets, the ANC might struggle to keep up. Additionally, the lack of volume control on the earbuds themselves is a minor inconvenience compared to the AirPods Pro.
Overall, the ANC on the AirPods 4 is a game-changer for open-ear earbuds. It provides a level of noise reduction that I didn’t think was possible in this design, making them a viable option for those who prefer the comfort and situational awareness of open-ear earbuds but still want some degree of noise cancellation.
Features: ANC Model Takes the Lead
Beyond ANC, the AirPods 4 with ANC pack several additional features that set them apart from the standard model.Wireless charging support offers added convenience, allowing you to charge the case on any Qi-compatible charger. The built-in speaker on the case is a handy addition for locating misplaced earbuds using the Find My app. Transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds, and Adaptive Audio intelligently blends ANC and transparency based on your environment.
The standard AirPods 4 lack these features, which feels like a missed opportunity, especially considering the relatively small price difference between the two models. The omission of wireless charging, in particular, is a significant drawback for a pair of earbuds in this price range.
Both models include other notable features like audio sharing, automatic switching between devices, hands-free “Hey Siri” commands, Apple TV integration, and more. The new head gesture controls allow you to answer calls or dismiss notifications with a simple nod or head shake, offering a hands-free way to interact with your device.
Voice Isolation, a feature previously available on the AirPods Pro, has also made its way to the AirPods 4. This technology utilizes machine learning algorithms to isolate your voice during calls, even in noisy environments. It’s a valuable addition for anyone who frequently takes calls on their AirPods, ensuring clear communication even in challenging situations.
Battery Life: ANC Impacts Endurance
Battery life is a crucial factor for any wireless earbuds, and the AirPods 4 deliver respectable performance, though the ANC model takes a slight hit. With ANC enabled, the AirPods 4 offer up to four hours of listening time, while the standard model extends that to five hours. The charging case provides an additional 16-24 hours of battery life, depending on whether ANC is enabled.
While these numbers are decent, they fall short of some competitors in the market. If you’re a heavy user who frequently relies on ANC, you might find yourself reaching for the charging case more often than you’d like. However, for most users, the battery life should be sufficient for daily use.
The Verdict: A Compelling Upgrade, Especially with ANC
The AirPods 4 represent a significant step forward for Apple’s open-ear earbuds. The improved audio quality, comfortable fit, and surprisingly effective ANC on the premium model make them a tempting upgrade for anyone seeking a comfortable and versatile listening experience.
The standard AirPods 4, while offering decent sound and a comfortable fit, feel somewhat underwhelming compared to their ANC-equipped counterparts. The lack of wireless charging and other premium features makes them less appealing, especially considering the relatively small price difference.
If you’re considering upgrading your AirPods or looking for a new pair of open-ear earbuds, the AirPods 4 with ANC are the clear winners. They offer a unique blend of comfort, situational awareness, and noise reduction that sets them apart from the competition. While they might not completely replace your over-ear headphones for dedicated listening sessions, they’re an excellent choice for everyday use, especially for those who prefer the open-ear design.