AirPods Pro 2 vs AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation: Which should you buy?

AirPods 4.

Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation

Battery (buds): 4 hours with ANC on, 20 hours with case
Weight (bud): 0.15oz (4.3g) per earbud
Noise cancellation: Yes
Spatial audio: Yes, with dynamic head tracking
Water resistance: IP54

Apple took a leap ahead with the AirPods 4, adding Active Noise Cancellation to the more expensive option. The addition of the H2 chip, wireless charging, and a speaker in the case for Find My brings the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation even closer to the pricier AirPods Pro 2. But they lack some features you'll need to know about before deciding on them.

For

• Noise cancellation has a strong effect
• Audio playback is rich and clear
• Spatial Audio sounds great

Against

• Below-average battery life
• Some sound leakage from outer-ear fit
• No on-ear volume control

AirPods Pro 2

Battery (buds): 6 hrs without ANC on, 30 hours with case
Weight (bud): 0.19oz (5.3g) per earbud
Noise cancellation: Yes
Spatial audio: Yes, with dynamic head tracking
Water resistance: IP54

While the AirPods Pro 2 are over two years old, they still feel like fresh tech with excellent sound quality and Active Noise Cancelling – very much worth the purchase. The silicone ear tips ensure a just-right fit for your ear and a seal that improves noise cancellation. Plus, new hearing assistance features are coming soon in a software update.

For

• Great noise cancellation
• Super sound and Spatial Audio quality
• Longer battery life

Against

• Lack of alternative colors
• Not ideal for Android users
• Average battery life