Detailed comparison: AirPods 4 vs AirPods 4 ANC vs AirPods Pro 2

The evolution of wireless headphones has been impressive, and Apple has excelled at maintaining its market leadership with the AirPods. In this comprehensive comparison, we will analyze the most recent models: AirPods 4, AirPods 4 ANC and AirPods Pro 2. We'll explore their key features, benefits and differences to help you decide which one best suits your needs.

Design and Construction: Minimalism and Ergonomics

AirPods 4: Elegance without Distractions

AirPods 4 maintain the traditional design that the brand is known for. Without silicone ear cushions, they focus on simplicity and comfort, being lighter than the other models. These earphones are designed for users who prioritize comfort in everyday use and prefer a fit that is not intrusive.

Weight: 4 grams per earphone
Water Resistance: IPX4 certified, ideal to resist sweat and small splashes.
Available colors: Classic white.

AirPods 4 ANC: Introducing Active Noise Cancellation

The AirPods 4 ANC model includes the same ergonomic structure as the AirPods 4, but adds a key feature: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). While they don't have the silicone ear cushions found on the AirPods Pro, ANC is effective at blocking out low-frequency external noise.

Weight: 4.2 grams per earphone.
Water resistance: Also IPX4 certified.
Available colors: White.

AirPods Pro 2: Maximum Customization and Fit

AirPods Pro 2 offer a different experience with their silicone ear cushions, allowing for a more customized fit that enhances passive and active noise cancellation. The design remains minimalist, but with a clear focus on delivering the best isolation experience.

Weight: 5.4 grams per earphone.
Water resistance: IPX4 certification, as in the other models.
Available colors: White.

Sound quality: Clarity and balance at every frequency.

AirPods 4: Surround sound without complications.

With AirPods 4, Apple has significantly improved sound quality compared to previous generations. They offer a frequency balance that favors clarity in the highs and mids, making them ideal for everyday listening to music and podcasts. However, they lack a lot of power in the bass, which may not be ideal for audiophiles looking for more depth in the low frequencies.

Custom dynamic driver for an enhanced listening experience.
Spatial Audio support for immersive sound.

AirPods 4 ANC: A step forward in audio immersion.

AirPods 4 ANC enhances the listening experience with the inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation. The ANC system not only blocks ambient noise, but also optimizes bass response, delivering a more immersive listening experience.

Optimizeddynamic driver with noise compensation algorithms.
Spatial Audio for a more immersive experience.

AirPods Pro 2: High-fidelity sound with active personalization.

AirPods Pro 2 take sound quality to the next level. Equipped with high-amplitude drivers and adaptive noise cancellation, they adjust the sound in real time to deliver the best experience.in any environment. Bass is deep and crisp, while treble and midrange are extremely clear, providing a balanced and detailed sound profile.

Customhigh-amplitude driver.
Adaptive equalization for a perfect sonic fit.
Spatial Audio with dynamic tracking for an immersive experience.

Noise cancellation: The key difference

AirPods 4: No ANC, but good passive isolation.

AirPods 4 do not feature active noise cancellation, but offer a good level of passive isolation. While they don't block background noises like their ANC counterparts, they may be sufficient for relatively quiet environments.

AirPods 4 ANC: Introducing Active Noise Cancellation.

The inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation in the AirPods 4 ANC is a big step forward for those looking for more immersion in their audios. ANC works especially well at blocking out low-frequency noises, such as aircraft drone or traffic noise.

AirPods Pro 2: Adaptive Noise Cancellation

AirPods Pro 2 offer best-in-class Active Noise Cancellation technology, automatically adjusting to the environment in real time to deliver maximum noise reduction. In addition, adaptive transparency allows the user to hear important sounds in the environment without removing the headphones.

Battery life: All-day battery life

AirPods 4: Enough for everyday use.

With up to 6 hours of continuous use, AirPods 4 offer more than adequate battery life for everyday use. The charging case adds up to an additional 24 hours, allowing for several days of use without a full charge.

AirPods 4 ANC: Slightly reduced by ANC

AirPods 4 ANC, due to the power consumption of the noise cancellation system, offer a battery life of approximately 5.5 hours with ANC enabled, and up to 24 hours with the charging case.

AirPods Pro 2: Enhanced performance

AirPods Pro 2 improve battery life compared to previous models, offering 6 hours with ANC on and up to 30 hours with the charging case, outperforming competitors in this regard.

Connectivity and compatibility: An optimized ecosystem.

AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 ANC: Fast and efficient connection.

Both AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 ANC include the H1 chip, which ensures fast connection with Apple devices and excellent power management. In addition, they are compatible with Siri Assistant and allow seamless switching between devices within the Apple ecosystem.

AirPods Pro 2: Advanced connectivity

AirPods Pro 2 integrate the new H2 chip, which improves power efficiency, connectivity and offers better call quality. They also include greater support for advanced features such as Custom Spatial Audio and Siri hands-free.

Price and value for money

AirPods 4: Affordable option for the average user.

The AirPods 4 are priced more competitively, making them an ideal option for those looking for Apple quality without spending too much.

AirPods 4 ANC: Balance of price and features

The AirPods 4 ANC offer a perfect balance between advanced features like noise cancellation and a moderate price point. They are an excellent choice for those looking for more for their money without reaching the costs of the AirPods Pro 2.

AirPods Pro 2: The premium option

The AirPods Pro 2 are the most expensive option of the three, but also the most complete. If you're looking for the best sound quality, advanced noise cancellation and a customizable fit, this is the choice.

Which is the best option?

Eachone of these models has its target audience. The AirPods 4 are ideal for those looking for simplicity and convenience at an affordable price. The AirPods 4 ANC add noise cancellation functionality, while the AirPods Pro 2 offer the best in audio technology and cancellation, making them the perfect choice for the most demanding users.

In the end, the choice will depend on your personal needs, but with any of them you will enjoy Apple's renowned quality.