Don’t know whether to buy the AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with ANC, or AirPods Pro 2? Here’s how they stack up.
Apple changed its AirPods lineup by introducing the AirPods 4 and the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancelation. The update makes it a little easier than before to decide whether you get the standard AirPods or step up to the AirPods Pro 2.
Let’s look at the differences between the three earbuds–there’s a lot more than just the shape and fit. This guide will help you make the proper buying decision for yourself or the person you’re shopping for.AirPods and AirPods Pro features compared
Here’s a quick reference chart detailing the features for the AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancelation, and AirPods Pro 2. Apple AirPods 4 (without ANC)AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 design and fit
The obvious different between the AirPods 4 and the AirPods Pro 2 are the designs and how they fit in your ears.
The AirPods 4 do not use ear tips and sit at the opening of the ear canal.
The AirPods 4 do not have ear tips. They sit at the opening of the ear canal. This design leave a little bit of space between the earbuds and the ear canal. Apple says the AirPods 4 “provide a natural and secure fit for more people than ever.” The AirPods 4 and the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation have the exact same design; the differences are with internal features.
The AirPods Pro do have ear tips, which are extensions of the earbud that fit into the opening of the ear canal. This design creates a seal for the ear canal that muffles outside sound.
Both the AirPods 4 and the AirPods Pro feature a shorter stem length than the original AirPods. Also, both are available only in white.
The AirPods 4 has a narrower case than the AirPods Pro 2.
The AirPods Pro 2 uses ear tips that fit in the outer part of the ear canal.AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 noise cancelling
This is the main audio feature between the three models.
The $129 AirPods 4 does not have Active Noise Cancellation
Two model include ANC:
The $179 AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation
The $249 AirPods Pro 2
The $179 AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation
The $249 AirPods Pro 2
The AirPods 4 with ANC and the AirPods Pro 2 have the same Active Noise Cancellation functions that include Adaptive Audio and Transparency Mode. Both also support Conversation
The AirPods Pro 2’s ear tips affect its Active Noise Cancellation. Since the ear tips block out external sounds, the ANC is more effective with the AirPods Pro than the AirPods 4 with ANC, which still uses ANC well.
