When shopping for Apple’s wireless earbuds, the AirPods Pro 2 and the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) are two strong contenders. They cater to different needs and preferences, offering high-quality sound and features that enhance the overall experience. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which model best suits your needs.
Design and Fit
AirPods Pro 2: The AirPods Pro 2 feature a compact, in-ear design with silicone ear tips that come in multiple sizes (XS, S, M, L) for a customizable fit. This allows for better noise isolation and a secure fit, making them ideal for users who prioritize comfort during long listening sessions or active use.
AirPods 4 with ANC: The AirPods 4 stick to the classic AirPods design, featuring a half in-ear fit without silicone tips. While comfortable for many, they may not provide as snug a fit as the AirPods Pro 2, which could affect noise cancellation and sound isolation.
Verdict: If you need a secure fit for workouts or travel, the AirPods Pro 2 are the better option. The AirPods 4 may be more suitable for casual users who prefer the lightweight feel of non-in-ear buds.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
AirPods Pro 2: The AirPods Pro 2 offer advanced ANC with Apple’s H2 chip, which enhances sound quality and noise cancellation. The Adaptive Transparency mode allows you to hear ambient noise when necessary, such as during conversations or in public spaces, without removing the earbuds.
AirPods 4 with ANC: While the AirPods 4 now come equipped with ANC, they don't quite match the performance level of the Pro model. The absence of silicone tips can lead to more external sound leakage, which slightly reduces the effectiveness of ANC compared to the Pro model.
Verdict: If top-tier noise cancellation is a priority, AirPods Pro 2 deliver a superior experience. The AirPods 4 offer good ANC for everyday environments, but they won’t block out as much noise in louder settings.
Sound Quality
AirPods Pro 2: With spatial audio, a custom high-excursion Apple driver, and better tuning thanks to the H2 chip, the Pro 2 provides a rich, immersive listening experience. The improved low distortion amplifier enhances clarity across frequencies, ensuring powerful bass and crisp highs.
AirPods 4 with ANC: The AirPods 4 offer impressive sound for the standard AirPods line, with notable improvements in clarity and dynamic range over previous models. However, they lack the depth of bass and immersive spatial audio features found in the Pro 2.
Verdict: For audiophiles and users who want spatial audio with Dolby Atmos for movies, music, and gaming, the AirPods Pro 2 is the clear winner. The AirPods 4 still offer great sound but lack some of the immersive features found in the Pro version.
Battery Life
AirPods Pro 2: With ANC on, the AirPods Pro 2 offer up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, and up to 30 hours with the charging case. Turning ANC off can extend the battery life even further.
AirPods 4 with ANC: The AirPods 4 offer up to 5.5 hours of listening time with ANC on, and around 24 hourswith the case. Without ANC, they can stretch to 6 hours per charge.
Verdict: Both offer solid battery life, but the AirPods Pro 2 have a slight edge in longevity, especially with ANC on.
Controls and Features
AirPods Pro 2: With force sensors on the stems, you can easily control playback, volume, and ANC modes. The AirPods Pro 2 also feature swipe controls for volume adjustment. They are equipped with Find My support, precision finding for the case, and MagSafe charging compatibility.
AirPods 4 with ANC: The AirPods 4 continue the classic touch-based controls and now include support for ANC adjustments. They offer wireless charging and are compatible with MagSafe as well, but lack the precision finding capabilities of the Pro 2.
Verdict: AirPods Pro 2 offer more comprehensive controls and features, especially for volume control and finding lost earbuds.
The AirPods Pro 2 were recently approved as clinical hearing aids, offering advanced features for users with hearing needs. They allow users to take hearing tests directly from the earbuds and adjust their sound settings for personalized hearing assistance. This makes them a versatile option for both general listening and hearing aid functionality.
Price
AirPods Pro 2: The AirPods Pro 2 are positioned as the premium option and are priced around $249. Given their superior ANC, sound quality, and features, the price is justified for users seeking top-of-the-line wireless earbuds.
AirPods 4 with ANC: Priced around $179, the AirPods 4 are more affordable while still offering ANC and solid performance, making them a great choice for users who want a balance between price and features.
Verdict: For users on a budget or those who don’t need all the advanced features, the AirPods 4 provide great value. However, if you’re looking for the best Apple has to offer in terms of sound and ANC, the AirPods Pro 2 are worth the investment.
Conclusion
Both the AirPods Pro 2 and the AirPods 4 with ANC have their strengths, and the choice largely depends on your preferences:
Choose the AirPods Pro 2 if you value superior noise cancellation, immersive sound quality, and advanced features like Adaptive Transparency and spatial audio.
Opt for the AirPods 4 with ANC if you’re looking for solid ANC performance in a more affordable, non-in-ear design that’s better suited for casual, everyday use.
Both models uphold Apple’s high standards for wireless earbuds, but your decision will come down to the importance of fit, noise cancellation, and additional features.
