The new AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) offer significant improvements in design, sound quality, and affordability, making them a great option for new buyers or those looking to upgrade.
Initially skeptical about the AirPods’ design due to my large ears, I found them to be perfect since their launch in 2016, making them a constant companion. Apple’s 2024 releases seem focused on making this experience accessible to even more users, especially with two new versions now available.
AirPods 4 Review: The AirPods 4 return to a more compact design reminiscent of the original model, fitting easily into the watch pocket of jeans. They maintain the previous earplug design, without silicone tips, which some might prefer for a more secure fit. Despite my concerns about them falling out, they have stayed securely in my ears over the years, thanks to the clever design that balances shape and weight.
Pairing with Apple devices is effortless. Opening the case automatically prompts an iPhone or iPad to detect the AirPods, with options like personalized volume settings and head gestures to answer calls. Sound quality is impressive, offering a balanced audio profile, capturing rich vocals without overwhelming bass. Songs like Afreen Afreen by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Momina Mustehsan bring back nostalgic feelings, showcasing the AirPods’ exceptional clarity.
Though there are no silicone tips, you can still enjoy music in noisy environments by raising the volume. The AirPods support spatial audio with head tracking, adding a dynamic element to sound direction. At ₹12,900, these are the most affordable AirPods yet, and Apple clearly aims to make them even more popular by offering a seamless experience for iPhone users.
AirPods 4 with ANC Review: For those looking for noise cancellation without the high cost of the AirPods Pro, the AirPods 4 with ANC is an ideal choice. While the design and sound profile are similar to the regular AirPods 4, the noise cancellation is impressive, even without silicone tips. My first encounter with them at the Steve Jobs Theatre instantly muted the noise of hundreds of journalists around me, demonstrating how powerful the ANC is.
In markets like India, where AirPods are still seen as premium, the addition of ANC is a significant upgrade for regular users. These AirPods come with both Adaptive and Transparency modes, allowing for automatic noise adjustments or letting in external sounds when needed. Features like conversation awareness, which lowers audio when speaking, might not appeal to everyone but can be useful in specific scenarios.
With noise cancellation, the audio experience becomes even more immersive. Whether it’s listening to Yesudas’ Souparnikamrutha or Ed Sheeran’s The A Team, the sound quality is neutral and balanced, with spatial audio adding an extra layer of immersion. It’s also a perfect way to create your own personal space, even in a busy office.
At ₹17,900, the AirPods 4 with ANC is a great choice for those looking to upgrade, especially if noise cancellation is a priority. While the AirPods Pro remains an option, these are more affordable and offer a fantastic ANC experience for both music lovers and Apple users alike.
