Wireless earbuds
Apple AirPods 4
The AirPods 4 are Apple's open-fit earbuds from 2024. They sit in the ear without silicone tips and come in two versions: a basic one and one with active noise cancelling and a wireless charging case.
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Key specs
DesignOpen fit, no ear tipsComfortable for people who dislike the pressure of in-ear tips.
ChipApple H2Better sound processing, voice isolation in calls and quick pairing with Apple devices.
Noise cancellingOptional: ANC, Transparency and Adaptive AudioReduces steady noise like trains; less strong than sealed in-ear models.
CaseUSB-C; ANC version adds wireless charging and a speaker for Find MySame cable as your iPhone 15 or newer, and a lost case can play a sound.
Water resistanceIP54 earbuds and caseFine for sweat and light rain.
What reviewers say
- Very comfortable open fit
- Clear, balanced sound for open earbuds
- Good call quality
- Seamless with iPhone, iPad and Mac
- Noise cancelling is weaker than in-ear models like the AirPods Pro 3
- Fit does not suit every ear shape
- Fewer features with Android phones
Summary of points commonly raised in professional reviews, written by Magelo. Specs are the manufacturer’s published figures.
Who it suits
Great for
- You find in-ear tips uncomfortable
- You use an iPhone and want simple, reliable earbuds
- You want some noise cancelling without a sealed fit
Less suited for
- You fly a lot and want maximum quiet
- You use an Android phone
Questions and answers
AirPods 4 with or without noise cancelling?
If you commute or work in noisy places, the ANC version is worth it: it adds noise cancelling, Transparency mode, wireless charging and a findable case.
AirPods 4 or AirPods Pro 3?
The AirPods Pro 3 seal the ear with tips, so their noise cancelling is much stronger. The AirPods 4 are lighter and more comfortable if you dislike tips.