Original price was: $129.00.$117.00Current price is: $117.00.
When Apple released the AirPods 4 in late 2023, they brought meaningful upgrades to their standard wireless earbuds lineup. After extensive testing across different environments and use cases, we've found they strike an interesting balance between convenience and performance, though with some notable trade-offs worth considering.
The wireless earbud market has evolved significantly since the original AirPods debuted in 2016. Today's buyers expect features like active noise cancellation (which uses microphones to detect and cancel out environmental noise), spatial audio (creating a virtual surround sound experience), and smart features that adapt to your environment. The AirPods 4 compete in a crowded field where brands are pushing the boundaries of what's possible in such small devices.
The H2 chip at the heart of these earbuds represents a significant upgrade over previous generations. In our testing, this new processor delivers noticeably cleaner audio processing and enables more sophisticated features. The sound profile is balanced, with clear mids and detailed highs, though bass response is naturally limited by the open-ear design.
Spatial Audio, which creates a virtual surround sound effect that stays oriented as you move your head, feels more refined than ever. When watching movies, this creates an impressively immersive experience - dialogue seems to come from your screen, while ambient sounds appear to surround you. We found this particularly effective when streaming content from Apple TV+ and Disney+.
The standout addition is Adaptive Audio, which intelligently blends noise cancellation and transparency modes based on your environment. In practice, this works surprisingly well - walking down a busy street, the earbuds automatically adjusted to let in just enough environmental sound to stay aware while still maintaining audio clarity.
Conversation Awareness is another clever feature that automatically lowers your music volume when you start speaking. This proved genuinely useful during quick interactions at coffee shops or with colleagues, though you might want to disable it during phone calls to avoid unexpected volume changes.
After using the AirPods 4 in various settings, here's how they perform in key areas:
The ANC performance is decent but not class-leading. It reduces low-frequency noise (like airplane engines or air conditioners) by about 40% in our testing. This is noticeable but falls short of sealed designs like the AirPods Pro 2. Think of it as taking the edge off rather than creating complete isolation.
Voice calls show marked improvement over previous generations. The beamforming microphones do a good job of focusing on your voice while reducing background noise. We found calls remained clear even in moderately windy conditions, though extremely noisy environments can still pose challenges.
In our tests, we consistently got around 5 hours of listening time with ANC enabled, extending to about 30 hours total with the charging case. This matches Apple's claims and should suffice for most users' daily needs. The new USB-C charging is a welcome addition, finally allowing for universal charging compatibility.
These earbuds shine brightest within Apple's ecosystem. The initial pairing process takes seconds, and switching between Apple devices happens automatically. The Find My integration now includes precise finding with directional arrows when you're near your lost AirPods, similar to AirTags.
Android users should note that while basic audio functionality works, many premium features are iOS-exclusive. This includes automatic device switching, spatial audio, and customized controls.
For home theater applications, the AirPods 4 offer mixed results. The spatial audio feature creates an engaging virtual surround experience, especially with supported content. However, the open design means you'll still hear ambient room noise, and there's noticeable audio latency when used with non-Apple TV devices. They're good for casual viewing but aren't ideal as dedicated home theater headphones.
At $249, the AirPods 4 sit in a premium price bracket. The value proposition depends heavily on how invested you are in the Apple ecosystem. For iPhone users who prioritize convenience and smart features, they make sense. However, pure audio enthusiasts might find better value in competitors offering superior sound quality at similar prices.
The AirPods 4 are best suited for:
They're less ideal for:
After extensive use, the AirPods 4 emerge as a solid choice for Apple users seeking wireless earbuds that emphasize convenience and smart features over absolute audio performance. The improved sound quality and new features like Adaptive Audio make them a worthwhile upgrade from earlier AirPods generations.
However, the open design remains a defining characteristic that will either be a selling point or a dealbreaker depending on your preferences. The premium pricing reflects the sophisticated technology and ecosystem integration rather than pure audio performance.
For those deeply embedded in Apple's ecosystem who prefer an open-ear design, these represent the current state of the art in smart features and convenience. But if maximum sound quality or noise isolation is your priority, you might want to consider sealed designs like the AirPods Pro 2 or competing premium earbuds from other manufacturers.
The most impressive aspect isn't any single feature, but rather how well everything works together to create a seamless, intelligent audio experience - assuming you're using them with Apple devices. They represent Apple's vision of ambient computing: technology that adapts to you rather than requiring you to adapt to it.
The AirPods 4 offer excellent spatial audio for movies, creating a virtual surround sound experience that tracks head movement. While they work best with Apple TV+ content, the open design means you'll still hear some room noise, making them better for casual viewing than critical home theater use.
The AirPods 4 provide 5 hours of listening time with ANC enabled on a single charge. The charging case extends this to 30 hours total. A quick 5-minute charge gives about 1 hour of listening time.
Yes, they work with Android phones as basic Bluetooth earbuds, but you'll lose access to key features like spatial audio, automatic device switching, and customized controls. They're best suited for iPhone users.
When used with Apple devices, there's virtually no lag thanks to the H2 chip. However, some lag may be noticeable with non-Apple devices, which could affect gaming or video watching experience.
The noise cancellation reduces low-frequency noise by about 40%, which is decent but not as effective as sealed designs like the AirPods Pro 2. It's better suited for reducing background noise than completely blocking it.
Yes, each earbud can be used independently, which is useful for extending battery life or maintaining awareness of your surroundings.
The AirPods 4 have an open design and less effective noise cancellation compared to the Pro 2. The Pros offer better sound quality and isolation, making them superior for home theater use, but some prefer the AirPods 4's open design for daily use.
Yes, they have an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, making them suitable for light rain and sweaty workouts, but not for swimming or submersion.
While they work for casual gaming, serious gamers might notice some audio latency, especially on non-Apple devices. They're not ideal for competitive gaming where audio timing is crucial.
At $249, the AirPods 4 are worth it primarily for iPhone users who want seamless ecosystem integration and prefer an open-ear design. For home theater enthusiasts or those seeking maximum sound quality and noise isolation, the AirPods Pro 2 or other sealed earbuds might be a better investment.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research has used advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: cnet.com - apple.com - youtube.com - tomsguide.com - apple.com - support.apple.com - phonearena.com - apple.com - cdw.com - apple.com - apple.com - connection.com - bhphotovideo.com
| Apple AirPods 4 |
|---|
| Battery Life - Critical for daily use: 5 hours listening (ANC on), 30 hours total with case |
| Chip - Enables key smart features: H2 processor |
| Water/Dust Resistance - Important for durability: IP54 rated |
| Charging Port - Affects compatibility: USB-C |
| Active Noise Cancellation - Impacts noise reduction: ~40% reduction of low frequencies |
| Bluetooth Version - Affects connection stability and range: Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Audio Features - Enhances listening experience: Personalized Spatial Audio, Adaptive EQ, Voice Isolation |
| Special Features - Key differentiators: Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Head-gesture controls |
| Device Switching - Important for multi-device users: Automatic switching between Apple devices |
| Microphones: Dual beamforming + inward-facing |
| Weight (each earbud): 4.5g |
| Case Dimensions: 2.2 x 1.8 x 0.9 inches |
| Color Options: White |
The Beats Powerbeats Pro offer a distinctly sports-focused approach with several advantages over the AirPods 4. Their standout features include exceptional battery life at 9 hours per charge, secure-fit ear hooks that ensure stability during intense activities, and physical controls that are easier to use while moving. The bass-forward sound signature provides extra motivation during workouts, while the IPX4 water resistance rating ensures durability against sweat and splashes. At $199-249, they represent solid value for active users who prioritize stability and battery life over smart features, particularly since they work equally well across both Apple and Android devices.
However, the Beats Powerbeats Pro lack several modern features that AirPods 4 users enjoy. There's no active noise cancellation or spatial audio support, which limits their appeal for home theater use and commuting. The charging case is noticeably larger and lacks wireless charging capability, making it less convenient for everyday carry. While the sound quality is good, especially for workout-focused earbuds, it doesn't match the AirPods 4's sophisticated audio processing and adaptive features. For users who prioritize cutting-edge features and seamless Apple ecosystem integration over workout performance, the Powerbeats Pro's more straightforward approach might feel limiting despite their excellent core functionality.
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The AirPods 3rd Generation remain a solid choice, particularly for users who prioritize battery life, offering 6 hours of continuous listening compared to the AirPods 4's 5 hours. Released in late 2021, these earbuds introduced many features that are now standard across Apple's lineup, including Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking and adaptive EQ. While lacking Active Noise Cancellation, their open-ear design appeals to users who prefer awareness of their surroundings, and they're frequently available at discounted prices below their original $179 launch price.
When it comes to everyday performance, the AirPods 3rd Generation still deliver reliable sound quality and seamless integration with Apple devices, though they can't match the improved audio processing and voice isolation capabilities of the H2 chip in the AirPods 4. Their slightly larger charging case uses the Lightning connector rather than USB-C, which may be an advantage for users heavily invested in older Apple accessories. While they don't offer quite the same level of audio refinement or feature set as the AirPods 4, they represent a good value when found on sale, especially for users who don't need ANC or advanced voice isolation features.
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The $199 Beats Fit Pro stands out primarily for its versatility and secure fit design, offering a more athletic-focused alternative in the premium wireless earbud space. The innovative wingtip design provides exceptional stability during workouts and active use, while still maintaining comfort for daily wear. One of its biggest advantages is the cross-platform flexibility - unlike the AirPods 4, the Beats Fit Pro offers a dedicated Android app that provides access to most key features, making it a more practical choice for users who switch between iOS and Android devices. The bass-forward sound signature delivers more impact for modern music genres and action movies, though it maintains good clarity across the frequency range.
While the Beats Fit Pro uses the older H1 chip compared to the AirPods 4's H2, it still delivers solid noise cancellation and spatial audio performance. The Beats Fit Pro actually offers slightly longer single-charge battery life (6 hours vs 5 with ANC on), though it provides less total time with the charging case. The IPX4 water resistance rating has proven reliable for intense workouts and light rain, and real-world testing shows excellent connection stability even in challenging environments. For users who prioritize a secure fit and cross-platform functionality over the latest Apple-specific features, the Beats Fit Pro presents compelling value, especially when found at its frequent sale price of around $150.
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The AirPods Pro 2 represents Apple's premium earbud offering at $249 (often available for $189), featuring a sealed in-ear design that delivers notably superior sound quality and noise cancellation. The Pro 2's silicone tips create proper isolation, resulting in significantly better bass response and a more immersive listening experience, especially for movies and gaming. The advanced implementation of Active Noise Cancellation is roughly twice as effective as the AirPods 4's ANC model, making them substantially better for commuting or noisy environments. The Pro 2 also offers more sophisticated features like Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and personalized spatial audio profiles.
For those who prioritize audio quality and noise isolation, the AirPods Pro 2 justifies its higher price point through tangible performance benefits. The sealed design and more capable drivers deliver fuller sound, while the additional hour of battery life (6 hours vs 5 with ANC) might matter for long listening sessions. However, the key consideration isn't just performance metrics - the fundamental difference in design philosophy means users need to be comfortable with an in-ear fit to take advantage of these benefits. The Pro 2's more comprehensive feature set, including hearing health features and precision Find My support, makes it a more capable device overall, though these advantages come at a premium over both AirPods 4 models.
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The AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation ($179) adds several compelling features over the standard model, with active noise cancellation being the most significant upgrade. This premium version can reduce ambient noise by up to 20dB, making it particularly effective for commuting, office work, and home theater use. The ANC model also includes Adaptive Audio, which intelligently blends noise cancellation and transparency modes based on your environment, plus Conversation Awareness that automatically lowers volume when you're speaking. The addition of wireless charging and a speaker in the case for Find My functionality rounds out the premium features.
While these upgrades come at a $50 premium, they provide tangible benefits for users in noisy environments or those who prioritize an immersive listening experience. The ANC feature is especially valuable when watching movies or gaming, as it helps maintain clarity during quiet scenes without needing to increase volume. However, the trade-off includes slightly reduced battery life when using ANC (4 hours versus 5 hours). For users who frequently find themselves in noisy environments or want the most feature-complete AirPods experience, the ANC model justifies its higher price point through its additional capabilities and enhanced versatility.
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The Jabra Elite 7 Pro ($199.99) stands out with its superior battery life, offering 8 hours of continuous playback compared to the AirPods 4's 5 hours, and its more robust IP57 water resistance rating makes it a better choice for active users. Its bone conduction sensor technology and advanced microphone system deliver notably clearer call quality, especially in windy conditions. The customizable EQ settings and multiple ear tip sizes allow users to fine-tune both sound and fit to their preferences, while true multipoint connectivity lets you stay connected to two devices simultaneously - a significant advantage for those who frequently switch between phone and computer.
While priced higher, the Elite 7 Pro justifies its cost with better overall sound quality, particularly in bass response, and more versatile platform compatibility. Its active noise cancellation performance is more effective, especially for low-frequency sounds, and can be adjusted to different levels through the Sound+ app. While it doesn't offer spatial audio or the seamless Apple ecosystem integration, the Jabra Elite 7 Pro delivers a more complete package for users who prioritize sound quality, call clarity, and durability over ecosystem-specific features.
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The Bose QuietComfort Ultra takes a different approach, focusing on superior noise cancellation and customizable audio profiles. While both earbuds offer premium features, Bose's CustomTune technology and best-in-class ANC make it particularly effective for commuting and office environments. The QuietComfort Ultra's more natural soundstage and richer bass response might appeal to audiophiles, though you'll pay more at $299. Multi-point connectivity allows seamless switching between devices regardless of ecosystem, and the highly customizable touch controls offer more flexibility than Apple's force sensors.
Where Bose falls short is in ecosystem integration and spatial audio implementation. While the QuietComfort Ultra's Immersive Audio feature creates an expansive soundstage, it lacks the dynamic head tracking that makes Apple's spatial audio so compelling for movies and TV shows. Battery life is slightly better at 6 hours per charge versus 5, but the total time with the case is less at 24 hours compared to Apple's 30. For Android users or those prioritizing pure sound quality and noise cancellation, the Bose offers more versatility, but Apple users will miss out on features like instant pairing and FindMy network support.
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The $349 Denon PerL Pro takes a significantly different approach, targeting audiophiles with premium features like aptX Lossless codec support, advanced noise cancellation using eight microphones, and personalized sound profiles through Masimo Adaptive Acoustic Technology. Its larger 12mm titanium drivers and wider frequency response deliver noticeably better sound quality, particularly in bass response and overall clarity. The longer battery life of 8 hours per charge and true multipoint connectivity make it more versatile for users who frequently switch between devices or need extended listening sessions.
While the PerL Pro's superior audio performance and build quality justify its higher price point for serious music enthusiasts, its lack of Apple-specific features like instant pairing and Find My support make it less convenient for Apple ecosystem users. The PerL Pro excels in pure audio performance and noise cancellation, but at nearly triple the price of the AirPods 4, it's best suited for users who prioritize sound quality above ecosystem integration and want the absolute best audio experience regardless of cost.
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The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds take a completely different approach to personal audio with their innovative open-ear design. While they can't match the AirPods 4's bass response or noise isolation, they excel in situations where environmental awareness is crucial. The open design allows for natural conversation and better situational awareness during activities like running or cycling, and many users find them more comfortable for extended wear since they don't create any pressure in the ear canal. At $229, they're positioned as a premium option, but their unique design justifies the price for specific use cases.
Where the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds really stand out is their versatility for active users and office workers who need to stay aware of their surroundings. They offer impressive 7.5-hour battery life (4.5 with spatial audio), multipoint connectivity for switching between devices, and surprisingly good sound quality considering their open design. However, they're less suitable for noisy environments or immersive media consumption where the AirPods 4's sealed design and active noise cancellation provide a clear advantage. The choice between these two ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize isolation and sound quality or awareness and comfort.
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The Soundcore P40i ($59.99) stands out with its remarkable battery life, delivering 12 hours per charge and an impressive 60 hours total with the case - more than double what the AirPods 4 offers. Its sealed design with active noise cancellation provides superior isolation, while the 11mm drivers deliver stronger bass response that many users prefer. The inclusion of multiple ear tip sizes ensures a more customizable fit, and the innovative charging case doubles as a phone stand, adding practical value for video watching. The companion app's customizable EQ settings let users fine-tune their audio experience, something Apple's earbuds don't offer.
While the P40i lacks spatial audio and the seamless Apple ecosystem integration, it compensates with features like multipoint connection for switching between any two devices, IPX5 water resistance, and impressive call quality through its six-microphone array. At less than half the price of the AirPods 4, it offers exceptional value for users who prioritize battery life, noise isolation, and sound customization over Apple-specific features. The P40i proves that premium features don't necessarily require a premium price tag, making it an attractive alternative for budget-conscious users who don't need Apple ecosystem integration.
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The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 ($229) stands out primarily with its exceptional durability and advanced noise cancellation capabilities. While costing about $100 more than the AirPods 4, it offers military-grade drop protection and IP68 waterproofing that allows for complete submersion - a significant step up from the AirPods' basic splash resistance. The Elite 8 Active also delivers notably stronger noise cancellation, with an adaptive system that's twice as powerful as its predecessor and particularly effective against wind noise. The longer 8-hour battery life and secure ShakeGrip coating make it especially appealing for active users, while the smart case's ability to connect directly to non-Bluetooth devices adds versatility for home theater use.
Where the Elite 8 Active really differentiates itself is in its platform-agnostic approach and sound customization options. Unlike the AirPods' Apple-centric features, the Elite 8 Active works equally well across all devices and supports multipoint connection for seamlessly switching between them. The companion app offers extensive EQ customization, allowing users to fine-tune their audio experience - something the AirPods notably lack. While it may not match the AirPods' seamless Apple integration, it offers more flexibility and control, making it a compelling choice for users who prioritize durability, sound customization, and cross-platform compatibility over ecosystem integration.
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The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro stand out with their superior IPX7 water resistance and more robust noise cancellation, particularly effective at blocking low-frequency sounds like airplane engines and bus rumbles. Their sound signature delivers fuller bass and benefits from advanced codec support, including 24-bit audio when paired with Samsung devices. The sealed in-ear design provides better passive noise isolation, while multiple ear tip sizes ensure a more customizable fit compared to the AirPods 4's one-size approach.
At $229.99, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro command a premium price but justify it with their advanced features and build quality. However, their strongest benefits are reserved for Samsung users, similar to how AirPods excel within the Apple ecosystem. While they offer excellent sound quality and features for all Android users, the value proposition is most compelling for those already invested in the Samsung ecosystem. Their gaming mode with reduced latency and superior water resistance make them a more versatile choice for active users, though their total battery life with the case falls short of the AirPods 4's endurance.
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The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 stands out with its significantly stronger noise cancellation, reducing up to 90% of ambient noise compared to the AirPods 4's modest 40%. While it commands a higher price at $279.99, it justifies the premium with superior sound quality, extensive EQ customization, and a unique Smart Case that enables direct USB-C audio connection to TVs and other devices. The Elite 10 Gen 2 also offers better durability with IP57 water resistance, multi-point connectivity for seamless switching between two devices, and more secure fit options with multiple ear tip sizes.
Where the Elite 10 Gen 2 really shines is in its versatility and audio performance. The Smart Case's ability to function as a Bluetooth transmitter means you can use it with virtually any audio source, making it particularly valuable for home theater use. The addition of Dolby Atmos support and customizable sound profiles through the Jabra app delivers a more premium listening experience, though these advantages come at more than twice the price of the AirPods 4. Battery life is slightly better at 6 hours per charge (versus 5), and the case provides a total of 36 hours of use. For users who prioritize sound quality and flexibility over ecosystem integration, the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 represents a more capable, if pricier, alternative.
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The JBL Live Beam 3 stands out as a compelling alternative, particularly for users seeking superior battery life and more robust sound quality. With up to 12 hours of playback per charge (compared to AirPods 4's 5 hours) and a total of 48 hours with the charging case, it's better suited for extended use. The sealed in-ear design with 10mm dynamic drivers delivers noticeably stronger bass response and better noise isolation, making it more effective for noisy environments. Its smart case with touch display controls and IP55 water resistance rating also offer practical advantages for daily use.
While priced higher at $199.95, the JBL Live Beam 3 justifies its cost through platform-agnostic versatility and superior sound quality. Its multi-point connection feature allows seamless switching between devices regardless of operating system, unlike the Apple-centric AirPods 4. However, it lacks wireless charging capabilities and doesn't offer the same level of ecosystem integration that Apple users might appreciate. The choice ultimately comes down to priorities - those seeking maximum audio performance and battery life will prefer the Live Beam 3, while users deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem might find more value in the AirPods 4's seamless integration and spatial audio features.
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The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro ($249.99) takes a notably different approach with its sealed in-ear design and dual-driver audio system. Where it really shines is sound quality, offering richer bass and more detailed highs thanks to its dedicated 10.5mm woofer and 6.1mm tweeter setup. The sealed design also provides stronger noise isolation, making them better suited for noisy environments and travel. Additional standout features include IPX7 water resistance (versus AirPods 4's IPX4), real-time translation capabilities, and Samsung's 360 Audio with head tracking.
However, these advantages come at a $70 premium over the AirPods 4, and the sealed design might not suit everyone's comfort preferences. The Galaxy Buds3 Pro delivers slightly better battery life at 6 hours with ANC (versus 5 hours), though their case provides less total playtime at 24 hours compared to AirPods' 30 hours. For Samsung users, the seamless integration and advanced features make the higher price worthwhile, but Apple users would be giving up valuable ecosystem features like instant device switching and Find My network support. The choice ultimately comes down to prioritizing either superior audio quality and water resistance, or ecosystem integration and comfort.
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The JBL Tour Pro 3 takes a distinctly different approach with its dual-driver system and innovative smart case. While both earbuds compete at the same $299 price point, JBL delivers significantly longer battery life at 11 hours per charge (compared to AirPods' 5 hours) and includes unique features like a touchscreen display on the charging case that can control playback and adjust settings without touching your phone. The case's ability to function as a Bluetooth transmitter for TVs and other audio sources is particularly valuable for home theater use, solving the common audio delay issues that plague most wireless earbuds.
Where the JBL really stands out is in pure audio performance and versatility. Its hybrid dual-driver system produces more detailed sound, especially noticeable in complex musical passages, and support for the LDAC codec enables true high-resolution audio playback with compatible devices. However, it trades off some convenience features - the noise cancellation isn't quite as effective as the AirPods 4, and it lacks the seamless Apple ecosystem integration. For non-Apple users or those prioritizing sound quality and battery life over ecosystem features, the JBL Tour Pro 3 offers compelling value with its superior audio performance and versatile feature set.
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The Bose QuietComfort take a fundamentally different approach with their sealed-fit design, offering significantly stronger noise cancellation and fuller bass response than the AirPods 4. While both are premium earbuds, Bose's focus on pure audio performance shows in their superior sound isolation and customizable EQ settings. The QuietComfort's ability to block out external noise is particularly impressive, making them an excellent choice for commuting, office work, or focused listening sessions. Their slightly longer battery life of 6 hours per charge and platform-agnostic nature also make them more versatile for users who switch between different devices.
Where the QuietComfort really shine is in their consistent performance across all usage scenarios. While they lack spatial audio features, the Bose QuietComfort deliver richer, more impactful sound that especially benefits bass-heavy music and movie soundtracks. Their CustomTune sound calibration technology automatically adjusts to your ear shape, ensuring optimal audio performance without requiring an Apple device. Though priced similarly to the AirPods 4, they represent better value for users who prioritize sound quality and noise cancellation over ecosystem integration, especially those who use both Android and iOS devices.
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The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 takes a distinctly different approach by prioritizing pure audio performance over ecosystem integration. With its 12mm bio-cellulose drivers and support for high-resolution codecs like aptX Adaptive, it delivers noticeably superior sound quality, particularly in bass response and overall clarity. The Pi6 also offers better battery life at 8 hours per charge, more robust IP54 dust and water resistance, and more effective noise cancellation for commuting or office environments.
While both earbuds cost $249, your choice really depends on how you'll use them. The Pi6 shines in audio quality, especially for movies and music, and offers more flexibility with its multi-point connectivity and universal device compatibility. However, it lacks the seamless Apple ecosystem integration and spatial audio features that make the AirPods 4 so convenient for Apple users. For pure audio performance and durability, the Pi6 has the edge, but it won't match the AirPods 4's effortless user experience within the Apple ecosystem.
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The Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro ($129) stands out with several advantages over the AirPods 4, particularly in noise cancellation and sound customization. Its sealed design with multiple ear tip sizes provides superior noise isolation, while the advanced ANC technology actively blocks up to 98.5% of external noise. The Liberty 4 Pro also offers significantly better battery life, lasting 7.5 hours per charge compared to the AirPods 4's 5 hours, and its fast charging provides 4 hours of playback from just a 5-minute charge. The inclusion of LDAC support and extensive EQ customization options through the Soundcore app allows users to fine-tune their listening experience far beyond what's possible with the AirPods 4.
Where the Liberty 4 Pro really shines is in its value proposition, offering premium features at a more accessible price point. While it may not match the AirPods 4's seamless Apple ecosystem integration, it compensates with stronger bass response, better noise isolation for movie watching, and more versatile device compatibility. The touch bar controls on the charging case and multipoint connection support add practical functionality that many users will appreciate in daily use. For Android users or those not heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem, the Liberty 4 Pro represents a more feature-rich alternative that delivers excellent audio performance without the premium price tag.
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The Beats Studio Buds take a different approach by offering a sealed in-ear design with silicone tips, delivering stronger bass response and better noise isolation than the AirPods 4. At $169, they represent a more affordable option while maintaining impressive sound quality and cross-platform compatibility. The Beats shine particularly in active use cases, with their IPX4 water resistance and secure fit making them ideal for workouts. Their 8-hour battery life per charge outperforms the AirPods 4, though the total time with the charging case is slightly less at 24 hours.
Where the Beats Studio Buds really differentiate themselves is in their platform agnostic approach - they work equally well with both Apple and Android devices, offering quick pairing and full features regardless of your phone choice. While they lack some premium features like spatial audio with head tracking and automatic device switching, they compensate with excellent sound isolation, powerful bass response, and a more budget-friendly price point. For users who prioritize sound quality and versatility over ecosystem integration, the Beats Studio Buds present a compelling alternative that doesn't compromise on essential features.
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The JBL Tour Pro+ stands out with its impressive 8-hour battery life and customizable sound profile, offering notably better endurance than the AirPods 4's 5-hour runtime. Its robust bass response and adjustable EQ settings through the JBL app give users more control over their listening experience, while the multiple ear tip sizes ensure a more secure fit for active users. Currently priced at $149.94, it delivers strong value with features like IPX5 water resistance, wireless charging, and universal device compatibility that works equally well with both Android and iOS devices.
Where the JBL Tour Pro+ falls short is in noise cancellation performance and ecosystem integration. While it offers adequate noise reduction for office environments, it can't match the AirPods 4's superior ANC capabilities, especially for consistent background noise. The call quality is also less impressive, particularly in windy conditions. However, for users who prioritize sound customization, longer battery life, and platform-agnostic functionality over Apple-specific features, the JBL Tour Pro+ represents a compelling alternative that costs only slightly more while offering several practical advantages for everyday use.
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