AirPods 4 vs AirPods Pro 2: Which Should You Buy?
Apple now offers more AirPods options than ever, and choosing between AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) can be tricky. Whether you're looking for premium features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) or just want reliable, great-sounding earbuds, this guide will help you decide.
🆕 What's New: AirPods 4 Comes in Two Variants
The AirPods 4 lineup now includes:
AirPods 4 (Standard)
AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation
This is the first time standard AirPods get ANC as an option — previously only available in AirPods Pro.
🔍 Quick Comparison: AirPods 4 vs AirPods Pro 2
Feature | AirPods 4 | AirPods 4 (with ANC) | AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|---|---|
Noise Cancellation | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ (2x stronger) |
Adaptive Audio | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ (smart transitions) |
Spatial Audio | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ Personalized |
Voice Isolation | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ (enhanced mic quality) |
Controls | Press | Press | Touch (volume swipe) |
Battery (listening) | 5 hrs | 4–5 hrs | 6 hrs |
Water/Dust Resistance | IP54 | IP54 | IP54 |
Case Features | USB-C | USB-C + Find My speaker | USB-C, MagSafe, Find My, Lanyard |
Chip | H2 | H2 | H2 |
Price | 💲💲 | 💲💲💲 | 💲💲💲💲 |
🎧 Sound & Features
✅ AirPods 4
Same H2 chip as the Pro model
Personalized Spatial Audio
Great mic clarity for calls
New design with better in-ear fit
Best for: Everyday users who want Apple quality without premium extras.
✅ AirPods 4 with ANC
Adds Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode
Includes Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness
Lacks some advanced features from Pro like hearing health tools and touch volume control
Best for: Users who want quiet listening at a lower price than AirPods Pro.
👑 AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)
2x more effective Active Noise Cancellation
Adaptive Audio adjusts to your environment automatically
Personalized Spatial Audio with better head tracking
Touch volume controls
Hearing aid and health-focused audio tools
Best-in-class sound detail and call clarity
Best for: Audiophiles, frequent travelers, and people needing the best noise control and fit.
🔋 Battery & Charging
All three models support USB-C charging, with up to 30 hours of total listening time via their charging cases.
AirPods Pro offer MagSafe and Apple Watch charger compatibility, plus a Find My-ready speaker and U1 chip in the case.
⚖️ Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Choose AirPods 4 (Standard) if you're on a budget and want solid everyday AirPods.
Choose AirPods 4 with ANC if you want modern features like noise cancellation without paying Pro prices.
Choose AirPods Pro 2 if you want the best sound, comfort, and noise control Apple offers.
🛍️ Where to Buy
📦 Bonus Tips:
All models work best with iPhones running the latest iOS.
AirPods Pro come with multiple ear tips for a more secure fit.
If you’re a frequent flyer or work in noisy spaces, AirPods Pro are worth the premium.
Want more buying advice?
Check out our Apple Buyer Guide updated every month for the best picks across Mac, iPhone, iPad, and more.
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