Apple recently introduced the AirPods 4, including a model with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). While this might tempt some to switch from AirPods Pro, there’s a key difference: the AirPods Pro still provide significantly better noise cancellation.
ANC comparison: AirPods Pro vs. AirPods 4
Apple claims that the AirPods Pro 2 offer “up to 2x more ANC” compared to the AirPods Pro (1st generation) and the AirPods 4 with ANC. The difference mainly comes from the design. The AirPods Pro feature an in-ear design, which seals the ear and enhances noise cancellation. In contrast, the AirPods 4 use an open-ear design that rests on the ear.
How does ANC work on AirPods 4?
Despite the open-ear design, the AirPods 4 with ANC still help reduce external noise, like city traffic and airplane engines, by using upgraded microphones, the H2 chip, and advanced computational audio. Apple also introduced intelligent features like:
- Transparency mode to stay aware of your surroundings
- Adaptive Audio, blending ANC and Transparency mode based on your environment
- Conversation Awareness, lowering media volume when you speak to someone nearby
AirPods 4: A new option for open-ear fans
For those who dislike the in-ear design of the AirPods Pro but want noise cancellation, the AirPods 4 with ANC offer a viable option. However, the noise cancellation isn’t as powerful as the AirPods Pro.
Both AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro with ANC are now available for pre-order at $129 and $179, with shipping starting on September 20.