AirPods 4 reimagine Apple's entry-level wireless earbuds in an ambitious way. Not only do they bring an overdue update to the very product line that put AirPods on the map, but they introduce an ilk of sub-$180 active noise canceling buds that ditch those potentially pesky silicone ear tips — and the lightning port in lieu of USB-C.
You'd think without a true seal, the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation wouldn't be effective. But having used them during train rides, flights, workouts, and other day-to-day activities, I'll vouch that the ambient sound reduction actually works. Is it equal to the experience offered by AirPods Pro 2? Of course not. But, as someone who can't stand the pressure caused by rubber tips for many hours at a time, I have a feeling this version of the AirPods 4 is going to become very popular over the next few years.
