When it comes to premium wireless headphones, Airpods Pro 2 remain at the top of their preferences due to their unmatched performance in sound quality and noise cancellation. However, for those who do not support silicone plugs in the ear, AirPods 4 with ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) is a very good alternative. Even if it does not provide the same bass intensity or the noise cancellation level of Airpods Pro 2, they bring a perfect balance between comfort, quality and price.
If you plan to buy a pair of wireless airpods and you do not know what to choose, my experience with these devices may help you to understand better what are the advantages and disadvantages of AIRPODS 4, compared to AirPods Pro 2.
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AirPods 4 with ANC without silicone plugs
If AirPods Pro 2 creates a perfect sealing in the ear to isolate the external sound very well when the Active Noise Cancellation function is activated, this can come up with discomfort for many users. AirPods 4 with ANC are a very good choice for users who do not support silicone plugs in the ear. I really felt the plugs from Airpods Pro uncomfortable and it took me a few months until I got used to them. Therefore, the design without silicone plugs of AirPods 4 makes them much more comfortable for users who find uncomfortable silicone plugs.
Although the ANC system on Airpods 4 does not compare to that of Airpods Pro 2, it offers a significant reduction in ambient noise for a silicone -free design. I could say that the Active Noise Cancellation of Airpods 4 are comparable to those of the first generation Airpods Pro. In fact, Apple also says in the technical specifications that Airpods 4 with ANC offers a half -performance experience of AirPod Pro 2.
Active Noise Cancellation on Airpods 4 is very effective for low noises. The sounds produced by cars, fans and noise from the urban agglomeration are diminished. If you are on the plane or in a high sound environment, the ANC on Airpods 4 is not exactly performing, but this is due to the lack of silicone plugs that tightly close the ear auditory channel, as I do AirPods Pro 2.
As for the other smart functions, AirPods 4 with ANC benefits from conversation awareness and personalized audio space, as well as AirPods Pro 2. In fact, the two models are based on the capabilities of the H2 chip.
Related: AirPods 4. All the differences between the two variants.
Sound clear, without too much bass
As for sound quality, Airpods 4 are a very good choice. They offer a balanced, clear and detailed sound, with a bass more subtle than the one offered by Airpods Pro 2. This compromise is acceptable, especially for users who emphasize the clarity of the voice and the general experience of sound than on the intensity of low frequencies. Honestly, I think the powerful bass has become something old fashioned.
AirPods 4 with lower battery autonomy ANC
Both the standard model and the AirPods 4 variant with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), have a slightly reduced autonomy compared to Airpods Pro 2. The duration of use with a single charge is about 5 hours, one hour less than the 6 hours offered by AIRPODS PRO 2.
However, the loading housing compensates for this difference, ensuring a total autonomy of up to 30 hours, just like the Pro. Thus, you can benefit from extended performances in daily use, even if the autonomy of individual headphones is slightly lower.
AirPods 4: Excellent value for money
Airpods 4 have a very competitive price. At $ 179, the ANC model is considerably more accessible than Airpods Pro 2 which costs $ 249, without sacrificing too many of the essential functions.
Also, the basic model, at $ 129, is a good option for those who do not need ANC, but they want premium sound quality.
Conclusion: Perfect choice for comfort and quality
Although AirPods Pro 2 are still the premium standard for wireless headphones, AirPods 4 with ANC offers an ideal solution for users looking for quality auditory experience without discomfort of silicone. With surprising ANC performances, clear sound and a competitive price, they prove to be an excellent alternative for a wide range of users.
If you prefer the comfort of a design without silicone plugs and without making major compromises on quality, AirPods 4 with ANC are a choice that you deserve to consider.
