Wireless earbuds have become essential gear for many of us, whether we're commuting, working out, or just enjoying music at home. Let's dive into two of 2024's most interesting options: Apple's AirPods 4 ($129.99) and Beats Solo Buds ($79.99).
Wireless earbuds have come a long way since the first AirPods launched in 2016. Today's models pack impressive tech into tiny packages - we're talking advanced audio processing, smart features like noise cancellation, and battery life that can last through multiple workdays. The key improvements we're seeing in 2024 are better sound quality, longer battery life, and more intelligent features that adapt to how you're using them.
The AirPods 4 represent Apple's latest evolution in their popular line, arriving in late 2024 with some significant upgrades. The biggest changes include USB-C charging (finally!), improved sound quality thanks to the H2 chip, and better noise handling. They've also shrunk the case size by about 10% compared to the previous generation.
The Beats Solo Buds, released in June 2024, take a different approach. They're Beats' most affordable wireless earbuds ever, but they don't skimp on the essentials. The case is 40% smaller than previous Beats models, making them incredibly portable.
The AirPods 4 deliver notably better sound quality than their predecessors. The H2 chip (Apple's latest audio processor) handles complex audio processing that helps music sound more detailed and natural. Spatial Audio, which creates a 3D-like sound experience, is particularly impressive when watching movies or TV shows - it really feels like the sound is coming from all around you, not just your ears.
The Beats Solo Buds might be budget-friendly, but they still pack impressive audio punch. They use dual-layer drivers (the tiny speakers in each earbud) that deliver clear sound with good bass response - something Beats is known for. While they don't have spatial audio or noise cancellation, the sound quality is remarkably good for the price point.
Battery life is where these two products really differ. The Beats Solo Buds offer up to 18 hours of total playback time with their case, which is impressive for their price point. They also include "Fast Fuel" charging, giving you about an hour of playback from just 5 minutes of charging.
The AirPods 4 provide about 5 hours per charge, with up to 30 hours total using the case. While that's plenty for most users, it's worth noting that using features like noise cancellation will reduce these numbers.
If you're planning to use these for watching movies or TV, the AirPods 4 have a clear advantage. Their Spatial Audio feature works wonderfully with streaming services and Apple TV, creating an immersive experience that's surprisingly close to a surround sound system. The Beats Solo Buds work fine for TV watching, but don't offer the same immersive experience.
Both options work well for exercise, but they approach it differently. The Beats Solo Buds have a more secure fit for most people and are more sweat-resistant. The AirPods 4 are also workout-friendly but might need occasional adjustment during intense activities.
For commuters, the choice largely depends on your priorities. If you want the best noise cancellation and seamless device switching, the AirPods 4 are your best bet. If you're more concerned about battery life and value, the Beats Solo Buds are an excellent choice.
The price difference between these products is significant. At $79.99, the Beats Solo Buds offer remarkable value, especially if you don't need advanced features like spatial audio or noise cancellation. They nail the basics: good sound, solid battery life, and reliable connectivity.
The AirPods 4 at $129.99 are pricier but justify their cost if you'll use their advanced features and are invested in the Apple ecosystem. The seamless integration with Apple devices and superior audio processing make them worth the premium for many users.
Choose the AirPods 4 if:
Choose the Beats Solo Buds if:
Both products excel in their respective categories. The AirPods 4 represent the premium end of wireless earbuds, with cutting-edge features and superior integration with Apple devices. The Beats Solo Buds prove that you don't need to spend a fortune to get quality wireless audio, offering impressive performance at an accessible price point.
The choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. For many users, the Beats Solo Buds' value proposition will be hard to resist. But if you want the best possible audio experience and use primarily Apple devices, the AirPods 4 are worth the extra investment.
| Apple AirPods 4 | Beats Solo Buds |
|---|---|
| Price - Your starting decision point | |
| $129.99 (premium pricing) | $79.99 (excellent value) |
| Battery Life - Critical for all-day use without recharging | |
| 5 hours per charge, 30 hours with case | 18 hours total with case, better standalone time |
| Sound Processing - Affects overall audio quality and features | |
| H2 chip with Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ | Basic dual-layer drivers, good but simpler |
| Device Compatibility - Important for ecosystem integration | |
| Optimized for Apple devices, limited Android support | Equal experience on iOS and Android |
| Case Size - Affects pocket-ability and portability | |
| 10% smaller than previous gen | 40% smaller than other Beats, most compact option |
| Smart Features - Convenience and usability improvements | |
| ANC, Spatial Audio, auto-switching, "Hey Siri" | Basic controls, Find My support, no voice activation |
| Water/Sweat Resistance - Durability for active use | |
| IP54 rated (moderate protection) | IPX4 rated (basic splash protection) |
| Audio Quality - Overall listening experience | |
| Superior clarity, detailed sound stage, immersive | Good bass response, solid performance for price |
| Charging - Convenience factor | |
| USB-C, wireless charging supported | USB-C only, no wireless charging |
| Call Quality - Important for work/communication | |
| Advanced beam-forming mics, best-in-class clarity | Basic mic setup, good for casual use |
The Apple AirPods 4 are significantly better for movie watching due to their Spatial Audio feature, which creates a virtual surround sound experience. The Beats Solo Buds work for movies but lack this immersive audio capability.
The Beats Solo Buds at $79.99 offer better value for basic wireless audio needs. The AirPods 4 at $129.99 cost more but include premium features like Spatial Audio and noise cancellation.
The Beats Solo Buds offer 18 hours of total playback time with their case, while AirPods 4 provide up to 30 hours total but less standalone time per charge.
Both can connect to Bluetooth-enabled TVs, but AirPods 4 offer better latency performance and Spatial Audio support when used with Apple TV devices. The Beats Solo Buds work with any Bluetooth TV but may have slight audio delay.
The Beats Solo Buds offer equal performance on both Android and iOS. The AirPods 4 work best within the Apple ecosystem and lose some features when used with Android.
Only the AirPods 4 support wireless charging. The Beats Solo Buds charge via USB-C only.
The AirPods 4 provide a superior streaming experience with Spatial Audio and better latency. The Beats Solo Buds work fine for basic streaming but lack advanced audio features.
The AirPods 4 offer active noise cancellation on their premium model, while the Beats Solo Buds don't include this feature.
Both are comfortable, but the AirPods 4 may need more frequent adjustment. The Beats Solo Buds typically provide a more secure fit for most users.
The AirPods 4 have lower latency and better integration with Apple devices for gaming. The Beats Solo Buds may experience slight audio delay during gaming.
The AirPods 4 offer superior overall sound quality with better clarity and detail. The Beats Solo Buds provide good bass response and solid performance for their price point.
Both can connect to Bluetooth-enabled receivers, but the AirPods 4 offer better compatibility with Apple TV and support Spatial Audio. The Beats Solo Buds provide basic stereo audio for home theater use.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses 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 - bestbuy.com - store.appogee.com - therunningchannel.com - cnet.com - apple.com - beatsbydre.com - expercom.com - appleinsider.com - target.com - youtube.com - middlebury-college-store.shoplightspeed.com - connection.com
