If you’re looking to upgrade your second or third generation AirPods, you’re in luck. During the iPhone 16 event, where Apple unveiled the Apple Watch and iPhoneThe company also announced two New fourth generation AirPods on September 9.
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Both fourth-generation AirPods models are equipped with Apple’s H2 audio chip, the same chip found in the AirPods Pro 2. This audio chip ensures sound quality, noise cancellation, audio processing, microphone quality, and better integration with Siri.
Neither AirPods 4 option has silicone ear tips like the Pro 2, but if you like the open-ear style of the second- or third-generation AirPods, you’ll like the fit of the AirPods 4. Additionally, both AirPods 4 models have force sensors on the stem, meaning a series of short and long presses on the stem will complete audio commands like play, pause, skip tracks, etc.
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These AirPods can be divided into entry-level and mid-range categories, with the mid-range AirPods 4 offering more premium features than the entry-level AirPods 4. Of course, the entry-level AirPods are cheaper. There are other differences between the two AirPods that you should consider before pre-ordering or buying the earbuds, so let’s take a look at them to help you make the most informed decision.
| Apple AirPods 4 (entry-level) | Apple AirPods 4 (mid-range) | |
| Audio Features | Spatial sound | Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, Adaptive Sound, Spatial Audio |
| Connect | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Durability | IP54 | IP54 |
| Battery | 5 hours on a single charge; up to 30 hours with charging case | 5 hours on a single charge; up to 30 hours with charging case |
| Chip | H2 | H2 |
| Price | $129 | $179 |
You should buy AirPods 4 (base model) if…
1. You love your AirPods (2nd generation) but want to upgrade a few things
If you like the simplicity of the second-generation AirPods but think it’s time to upgrade, the entry-level AirPods 4 are for you. Like the second-generation AirPods, Entry-level AirPods 4 There’s no active noise cancellation or Transparency Mode, but they do come with spatial audio, which makes music, movies, and mobile gaming more immersive.
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In terms of upgrades, the AirPods 4 charging case offers six hours more battery life than the second-generation AirPods. Additionally, the AirPods 4 charging case supports USB-C charging and has an IP54 dust and water resistance rating.
2. You want to choose the most affordable price
The entry-level AirPods are cheaper than the mid-range AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2. You can still buy the second and third-generation AirPods from Apple, but they don’t have the same upgraded features as the new AirPods 4.
You should buy AirPods 4 (mid-range segment) if…
1. AirPods Pro 2 have too many features that you will never use
The AirPods Pro 2 are Apple’s most advanced earbuds, offering a range of audio features and hearing health options. These include Siri Interactions and Voice Isolation, a clinically validated hearing test, and a hearing aid mode. If these features don’t interest you and you don’t want to pay for software you’ll never use, the mid-range AirPods 4 are your best bet.
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AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation feature noise cancellation and transparency mode, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, and IP54 water and dust resistance. The charging case is compatible with USB-C and wireless charging. However, the mid-range AirPods 4 have one hour less continuous playback time than the AirPods 3.
2. You want AirPods that “fit” well
If you’re upgrading from the AirPods 3, you’ll like the fact that the mid-range AirPods 4 have more audio features and some hardware upgrades. The AirPods 3 don’t have noise cancellation or conversation detection, a feature that mutes your music when the earbuds’ microphones detect you’re trying to have a conversation. Additionally, the mid-range AirPods 4’s case is more water and dust resistant and compatible with wireless charging.
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You can think of the AirPods 4 with noise cancellation as the “Goldilocks” AirPods because they give users the best of both worlds. You get advanced audio features that aren’t available in the second or third generation AirPods without offering too many of the advanced features found in the AirPods Pro 2.
