AirPods Pro 2 vs AirPods 4: Which Should You Choose?

Introduction

Apple’s AirPods continue to evolve with impressive features for wireless audio. This year, Apple introduced the AirPods 4, offering two versions: one with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and another without. So, this is the first time that non-Pro AirPods have active noise cancellation. But which earbud is best for you? In this post, we’ll explore the key differences in noise cancellation, battery life, design, and much more. If you’re deciding between these two models, read on for a clear comparison to help you pick the right pair. Towards the end of this article there is a table comparing the three models.

Sound Quality Comparison

Despite being released in 2022, the AirPods Pro 2 still have the best sound quality and listening experience due to the presence of the silicone ear-tip. They have good bass and clear highs.
The AirPods 4 (both the standard 4 and the ANC 4) have a slightly inferior sound quality when compared to the AirPods Pro 2, especially in the bass since they feature an open ear design.

Design

While sound quality is the main factor for many when choosing a pair of AirPods, design still plays an important role in comfort and usability. The most noticeable design difference between the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 is the use of silicone ear tips. The AirPods Pro 2 come with four sizes of silicone tips (XS, S, M, L), allowing for a customized, secure fit that enhances noise isolation and comfort. In contrast, the AirPods 4 feature an open-ear design without ear tips, providing a lighter, more relaxed fit, ideal for users who prefer to stay aware of their surroundings.

The cases also vary in size and features. The AirPods Pro 2 case is relatively larger and includes additional functionality (more about this below), while the AirPods 4 case is more compact, making it convenient to carry in smaller pockets or bags. Despite these differences, all models and their respective cases are IP54 water-resistant, offering durability against sweat and splashes—suitable for everything from intense workouts to unexpected rain.

Battery Life

When it comes to battery life, the AirPods Pro 2 offer a more robust performance. With Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) turned on, you can enjoy up to 6 hours of continuous listening on a single charge, extending to a total of 30 hours with the charging case. The AirPods 4, on the other hand, provide up to 5 hours of listening time with ANC off and up to 30 hours total battery life. However, when ANC is enabled, the battery life decreases to 4 hours on a single charge and 24 hours with the charging case.

Case

The AirPods 4 case lacks several features found in the ANC model. It doesn’t support charging via an Apple Watch charger, Qi wireless charging, or MagSafe. It also doesn’t include a speaker for locating the case through the Find My app, a lanyard loop, or the U1 chip (used for precise location tracking, like in AirTags).

The AirPods 4 ANC case improves on this with support for Apple Watch charging and wireless charging, though it lacks MagSafe compatibility (due to its compact size), a lanyard loop, and the U1 chip.

The AirPods Pro 2 case, on the other hand, includes all these features, plus a USB-C cable in the box for added convenience.

Features

Apple’s AirPods lineup offers a variety of options designed to cater to different listening preferences and needs. As expected, the AirPods Pro 2 come packed with more advanced features than the AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 ANC, offering an experience tailored for users who prioritize premium functionality. Below, we’ll explore the defining features of each model.

Similarities

Chip

All three models are equipped with Apple’s H2 chip, which enhances multiple functions, including Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), 3D spatial audio, and battery performance. However, each model has its differences, making each one ideal for a different type of person.

Spatial Audio

All models provide Spatial Audio, delivering a surround-sound experience for a more immersive listening experience.

Ecosystem functions

All of these AirPods support Automatic Switching between devices, and voice commands with “Hey Siri” or just “Siri”. Additionally, all three allow users to nod to accept or reject calls.

Comfort

These earbuds have vent systems for pressure equalization and increased comfort, thus reducing the feeling of weight in the ears.

Controls on Earbuds

• AirPods Pro 2: Allows users to skip tracks, pause music, and control volume directly from the earbuds. It also has a skin-detect sensor that pauses music more accurately, preventing accidental playback when the earbuds are not worn.
• AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 ANC: Allow users to skip tracks and pause music but lack volume control on the earbuds. It Uses an optical in-ear sensor instead of the skin-detect sensor, which may not be as precise as the Pro 2.

Now that we have seen the similarities, let’s look at the differences

Differences

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

• AirPods Pro 2: Offers the most advanced ANC, with noise reduction twice as effective as the AirPods 4 ANC, thanks in part to the silicone ear tips that provide a better seal.
• AirPods 4 ANC: Also equipped with ANC, but the effectiveness is half of what the Pro 2 offers, according to Apple.
• AirPods 4: Does not feature ANC.

Transparency Mode

• AirPods Pro 2: Has impressive Transparency Mode, allowing users to hear ambient sounds clearly.
• AirPods 4 ANC: Comes with industry leading Transparency Mode, which is even more effective than the Pro 2 version for hearing ambient sounds naturally.

Adaptive Audio

They both have awesome Adaptive Audio, which helps you pay attention to two things at the same time.

Conversation Awareness

• AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 ANC: Both support Conversation Awareness, which adjusts audio levels during conversations for a smoother experience.

Hearing Features

• AirPods Pro 2: The Pro 2 includes an integrated Hearing Test and is certified as a hearing device, making it a valuable option for those needing assistance with hearing at a lower cost.
• AirPods Pro 2: Also features Conversation Boost to enhance speech during face-to-face interactions.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right AirPods Model

Choosing the right AirPods ultimately depends on your preferences, but the AirPods Pro 2 stand out as the most compelling option. At just $160 on Amazon, they are not only the most affordable AirPods with ANC available right now but also offer unmatched features and performance.

However, there are people who may prefer one of the other options. Here is a summary of which AirPods you should choose depending on your situation.

1. AirPods 4: Ideal for those who want to join the Apple ecosystem at the lowest possible price without needing advanced features. They offer essential Apple functionality, but lack extras like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency Mode.
2. AirPods 4 ANC: This model is perfect for those who prefer standard earbuds over silicone tips and still want a few extra features—such as Transparency Mode and Conversation Awareness and ANC.
3. AirPods Pro 2: The best choice for those seeking the most features and value. The Pro 2 can often be found on Amazon and other retailers at a competitive price, sometimes just $10 less than the AirPods 4 ANC. For this big difference, the AirPods Pro 2 bring 11 additional benefits that add even more value:
   • Superior Active Noise Cancellation
   • Integrated hearing test and hearing aid certification
   • Touch controls to adjust volume directly from the earbuds
   • Longer battery life
   • USB-C charging cable included (valued at $20 on Apple’s site)
   • MagSafe charging compatibility
   • Lanyard loop for added convenience
   • Skin-detect sensor for precise playback control
   • U1 chip for precise location tracking with Find My (similar to AirTags)
   • Conversation Boost for clearer audio during face-to-face interactions

For these reasons if you’re looking for the best overall experience—combining affordability and premium features—the AirPods Pro 2 are an unbeatable choice. Unless you fit the other descriptions above.