Comparing the Features and Noise Cancellation Capabilities: AirPods 4 versus Enhanced AirPods Pro 2 - Which Earbuds Offer Superior Performance?
The tech world is abuzz with the release of the latest additions to Apple's AirPods family – the AirPods Pro 2. This article aims to shed light on the key differences between the AirPods 4 and the AirPods Pro 2, helping you make an informed decision when choosing your next pair of wireless earbuds.
Design and Fit
The AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 boast distinct designs. The AirPods 4 sport a semi-open fit without silicone tips, offering a more casual look. However, some users find this design less secure and prone to leaking sound. On the other hand, the AirPods Pro 2 feature an in-ear design with customizable silicone ear tips, providing a better seal for noise isolation and a more secure fit.
Audio Quality
Both the AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 are equipped with the Apple H2 chip, delivering consistent audio quality. However, the AirPods Pro 2 edge out their sibling in performance, particularly in bass frequencies, offering superior bass performance and overall audio quality, especially useful for bass-heavy music.
Battery Life
Battery life is another area where the AirPods Pro 2 outperforms the AirPods 4. The AirPods Pro 2 offer up to 6 hours of listening time per charge, slightly reduced to 5.5 hours when using Spatial Audio and Head Tracking. In comparison, the AirPods 4 offer up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge, with a total capacity of 30 hours including the charging case.
Features
The AirPods Pro 2 come packed with a host of advanced features. They include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Transparency mode, and advanced hearing health features such as mild to moderate hearing aid support. The charging case of the AirPods Pro 2 supports MagSafe, wireless charging compatible with Apple Watch chargers and Qi-certified chargers, and features a U1 chip integrated with Find My capabilities.
In contrast, the AirPods 4 lack ANC and have a simpler case supporting only USB-C wired charging without wireless or MagSafe features. However, both models share the same IP54 waterproof rating and offer active noise cancellation (ANC).
Price and Value
The AirPods Pro 2 are more expensive than the AirPods 4, retailing for $249 before a sale, compared to the AirPods 4's $129. Despite the higher price tag, the AirPods Pro 2 offer a more premium experience with their in-ear fit, ANC, enhanced audio performance, longer battery life, and advanced charging and health features.
Conclusion
In summary, the AirPods Pro 2 offer a more premium experience with their in-ear fit, ANC, enhanced audio performance, longer battery life, and advanced charging and health features, while the AirPods 4 provide a more affordable, simpler design with good sound quality but fewer advanced capabilities. For those seeking a more secure fit, the AirPods Pro 2's silicone ear tips offer a more stable and comfortable experience.
For comprehensive guides on tech and electronics, including wireless headphones, wireless earbuds, outdoor speakers, and more, we recommend checking out the guides published by the Forbes Vetted team. They regularly revisit their content to reevaluate product selections, add new testing insights, and more, ensuring their guides remain up-to-date and informative. Their latest update, published in July 2025, compares the AirPods Pro 2 against the AirPods 4.
Whether you're a music lover, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a reliable pair of wireless earbuds, the AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 offer a range of options to suit your needs and budget. Choose wisely!
Gadget enthusiasts considering the purchase of smartphones may find the audio quality offered by the AirPods Pro 2 appealing, as they deliver superior bass performance compared to the AirPods 4. Furthermore, technology geeks interested in the latest smartphone accessories might appreciate the advanced features of the AirPods Pro 2, such as MagSafe charging, active noise cancellation, and hearing health support.
