AirPods 4 vs AirPods 3: What's New and Improved?

Apple has introduced the AirPods 4 with several advancements, including Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), an updated design, and improved sound quality. These new features are designed to provide a better overall user experience, and Apple has even stated that the AirPods 4 offers their "most comfortable design yet." In this comparison, we’ll look at how the AirPods 4 stack up against their predecessor, the AirPods 3, in terms of design, features, sound quality, battery life, and price.

Design: Comfort and Durability Redefined

Apple has made notable changes in the design of the AirPods 4, making them more comfortable for extended use. Lighter in weight, they are built for prolonged wear without causing discomfort. This improvement is a step up from the AirPods 3, which, while also comfortable, do not come with the same level of design refinement.

Both the AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 share a similar form factor with shorter stems and the absence of silicone ear tips, making the fit dependent on individual ear shapes. However, where the AirPods 4 shines is in its enhanced protection against the elements. While the AirPods 3 have an IPX4 rating, which only protects them against sweat and splashes, the AirPods 4 boast an IP54 rating, offering better protection against both dust and water. This makes the AirPods 4 more durable, especially in outdoor or rugged environments.

Additionally, the AirPods 4 come with a smaller charging case, offering better portability compared to the larger one that comes with the AirPods 3. This change may appeal to users looking for a more compact carrying solution.

Features and Sound Quality: Major Upgrades in Technology

One of the most significant updates in the AirPods 4 is the introduction of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), a feature that was previously only available in the AirPods Pro lineup. The ANC feature allows users to block out external noise, delivering a more immersive audio experience. This is a notable improvement over the AirPods 3, which do not have ANC and rely solely on passive noise isolation.

The AirPods 4 are powered by Apple’s new H2 chip, which enhances Adaptive Audio technology. This feature intelligently adjusts the background noise level and call volume based on your surroundings, delivering a seamless audio experience in various environments. With this chip, the AirPods 4 also improve spatial audio performance, providing more personalized and accurate sound.

Both the AirPods 4 and AirPods 3 support Spatial Audio, which creates a surround-sound effect, and Audio Sharing, which lets you share audio with another set of AirPods. Additionally, both models have Auto Pause functionality, pausing your audio when you take them out of your ears.

Another new feature in the AirPods 4 is Transparency Mode, which lets ambient sound through, allowing you to be aware of your surroundings while still enjoying your music. The AirPods 4 also introduces Adaptive Audio Mode, which automatically transitions between ANC and Transparency Mode depending on your environment.

Battery Life: Impressive Performance with or without ANC

Battery life is always a crucial consideration, and with the AirPods 4, Apple has made efforts to balance ANC and battery longevity. With ANC enabled, the AirPods 4 can deliver up to 4 hours of music playback and 4.5 hours of calling. When combined with the charging case, this extends to a total of 20 hours of listening.

On the other hand, the AirPods 3, which do not feature ANC, offer a slightly longer battery life, providing up to 6 hours of music playback on a single charge and a total of 30 hours with the charging case. However, when the ANC is turned off on the AirPods 4, both the AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 deliver similar battery performances, with over 30 hours of total battery life.

Both models support USB Type-C charging and can be wirelessly charged using Qi-certified pads. The shift to USB-C for charging in the AirPods 4 brings them in line with Apple’s newer devices, offering faster and more convenient charging options.

Price: New Features, Competitive Pricing

The pricing of the AirPods 4 is competitive given the advanced features they offer. The AirPods 4 are available in two versions: the standard model, which retails at Rs 12,900, and the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) version, priced at Rs 17,900. The addition of ANC at this price point is a first for Apple’s non-Pro models, making the AirPods 4 a compelling option for users seeking high-end features without having to splurge on the Pro lineup.

In comparison, the AirPods 3 are priced at Rs 17,999, which makes the AirPods 4’s standard model a more cost-effective option with better features. For users who prioritize ANC and other advanced features, the higher-priced AirPods 4 ANC edition offers better value than the AirPods 3, which lacks ANC altogether.

Final Thoughts: AirPods 4 or AirPods 3?

The AirPods 4 bring a wealth of new features to the table, including Active Noise Cancellation, improved dust and water resistance, and a more comfortable design. They also deliver better sound quality with the H2 chip and Adaptive Audio features, making them a significant upgrade over the AirPods 3. The inclusion of ANC at a competitive price point makes the AirPods 4 a highly appealing choice for users looking for premium features without stepping into the Pro category.

That being said, the AirPods 3 are still a solid option for those who don't need ANC and prefer a longer battery life for uninterrupted listening. However, with the AirPods 4's improvements, especially in sound quality, comfort, and price, they offer a more compelling package overall.