Headphones for atmospheric sound and maximum comfort: AirPods 4 vs AirPods Pro 2

In 2024, a new product appeared in the Apple headphone line — AirPods 4. Users can choose the version with and without the active noise reduction (ANC) option. At the same time, the new ANC model is compared with the AirPods Pro 2. Read the article to find out if there are any similarities between these devices and which one is better to choose.

The subtleties of design

Let’s start the comparison with the appearance. Both cases are made of snow-white plastic. The design is minimalistic in the style of the company. However, the case with the brand new AirPods 4 is lighter than the AirPods Pro 2. It’s also more compact, so it can easily fit into a small pocket.

The device designs are radically different:

• AirPods 4 — earbuds. These headphones are shallowly inserted into the ears and held inside them due to their shape.
• AirPods Pro 2 — vacuum in-ear “plugs”. These headphones fit snugly in your ears, like earplugs. The sound is directed directly into the auditory canal. The silicone ear pads effectively suppress ambient sounds and help you feel the bass better. However, not all users are satisfied with the feeling of vacuum in the auricles. Therefore, Apple engineers have come up with a ventilation system that allows you to equalize the pressure so that users do not feel discomfort.

Before buying Apple AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 headphones, we recommend testing each model — you can do this in iSpace stores.

Diving into technology and sound: looking for differences

The new AirPods 4 is presented in the classic version and with noise reduction. They have both similarities and differences.

• How they are similar: they work on the basis of the H2 chipset, and in order for audio files to be played as efficiently as possible, they support lossless audio.
• How they differ: in the version without noise reduction, there is no speaker built into the case. Without a speaker, the headphones cannot support the Find My function. And there is also no wireless charging option.

The classic version of the AirPods 4 without ANC is a solution that is more suitable for use in quiet places: at home, in the car, in the office. If you want to completely abstract from the ambient noise, then you should pay attention to the version with active noise reduction.

A comparison of AirPods 4 vs AirPods Pro 2 shows that there are many common features in the models.:

– Adaptive audio support;

– ANC — active noise reduction;

– transparency mode, which allows you to hear what is happening around you;

– advanced microphone set;

– gesture control — head movement.

But the noise insulation properties in the devices vary. Since the AirPods Pro 2 fit very tightly in the auricle due to silicone ear pads, they do a better job of suppressing ambient noise.

In addition, the AirPods Pro 2 has bonuses that you won’t find in the AirPods 4. For example, Apple developers have added technology that allows you to check your hearing and, depending on the data received, helps activate protection.

As for the sound, it is universal and balanced in both devices. The sound is deep, rich in frequencies and bass notes. The detail is at its maximum, even despite the differences in design. By the way, the headphones have a built-in equalizer that will help you adjust the sound to the music you like to listen to.

Non-stop music: how hard are headphones?

If you periodically recharge the classic version of the AirPods 4 in the case, you can enjoy music for 30 hours. The AirPods Pro 2 have the same endurance. As for the AirPods 4 with the ANC option, they will last up to 20 hours.

AirPods 4 on a single charge without turning on the noise level and without recharging in the case allow you to continuously listen to music for 5 hours. If ANC is enabled, the battery life will be 4 hours. In turn, the AirPods Pro 2 will work for 6 hours without noise reduction, up to 5.5 hours with the activated option. The leader is obvious here.

Such endurance is quite enough if you listen to music on the way to work or talk to your loved ones — that is, perform standard scenarios.

Gadgets also differ in fast charging. Five minutes in the case, and both devices work one hour longer in audio listening mode.

Intelligent control

The headphones have built-in special sensors that greatly simplify operation. It is enough to press the case to start playback, stop, and switch the track. The AirPods 4 (classic version and with noise reduction) and AirPods Pro 2 have gesture control. If you want to answer a call, nod your head, and reject it, shake your head left and right.

However, there is an exclusive feature in the arsenal of the AirPods Pro 2 — touch volume control. If you need to make the music louder/quieter, just swipe on the earphone leg. But the new 2024 AirPods 4 does not have such a feature – you will have to get out your smartphone or adjust the volume using an Apple Watch.

Choosing a winner

So, should I buy Apple AirPods 4 or AirPods Pro 2? Rely on your taste and feelings here. After all, someone is used to earplugs, and someone is more comfortable in “earplugs”. For example, the AirPods Pro 2 fit snugly in your ears due to silicone ear pads and direct sound directly into the ear canal, which means the bass will be rich and deep. But in terms of sound quality, both devices are on par – this is the merit of the H2 chip.

Active noise reduction of ambient noise is better in the AirPods Pro 2 — ideal for those who often have to visit noisy places, ride the subway. In this case, you don’t need to turn the music up to full volume to drown out the sounds of the street. Although both models have both noise reduction and spatial audio.

AirPods Pro 2 (left) vs AirPods 4 (right)

Both devices are suitable for sports and outdoor activities due to the protection against moisture class P54.

If you are more comfortable with earbuds, feel free to test and buy AirPods 4. On the website and in the iSpace store, you can order a version with the ANC option and without noise. If you want more exclusivity in management and find the “earplugs” attractive, choose the AirPods Pro 2, which can test your hearing as well.

The price of the AirPods 4 depends on the selected version. The non-ANC option is more budget-friendly.

And if you still don’t know what to choose, come to the iSpace store, where experienced specialists will provide detailed advice on each model of Apple headphones. You can test the technique with us so that you understand exactly what is right for you.

By the way, iSpace has an installment plan without a down payment and fast delivery: we will bring your order anywhere in Uzbekistan for free.

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