Apple’s latest iteration of their iconic wireless earbuds, the AirPods 4, promises a refined listening experience with a focus on comfort, immersive sound, and seamless integration. But do they live up to the hype and justify the $99 price tag? We dive deep into what makes these earbuds tick.
Quick Facts
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 (42424 reviews)
💰 Price: $99.00
🏷️ Brand: Apple
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- ✅ Exceptional all-day comfort and stability
- ✅ Immersive Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
- ✅ Improved call quality with Voice Isolation and H2 chip
- ✅ Effortless setup and magical Apple ecosystem integration
- ✅ Long-lasting battery life with up to 30 hours total listening time
❌ Cons
- ❌ No active noise cancellation mentioned
- ❌ Shorter stem might be a preference for some, not all
- ❌ Personalized Spatial Audio may require initial setup for best results
Detailed Review
Right out of the box, the AirPods 4 feel like a welcome evolution. The redesigned contour and shorter stem are immediately noticeable, offering a more secure and comfortable fit, especially during extended listening sessions or workouts. The quick-press controls are intuitive and responsive, making managing music and calls a breeze without constantly fumbling. For iPhone users, the setup remains as magical as ever – a simple proximity pairing that takes seconds, reinforcing Apple’s commitment to a seamless user experience.
The star of the show for many will be the Personalized Spatial Audio. This feature truly transforms your listening. By creating a custom sound profile based on your ear shape, it crafts an incredibly immersive, theater-like soundstage. Whether you’re engrossed in a movie, gaming, or just enjoying your favorite album, the dynamic head tracking makes the audio feel like it’s wrapping around you, adding a new dimension to your entertainment. This, combined with the H2 chip’s advanced computational audio, significantly enhances clarity, especially during calls. Voice Isolation is a standout, ensuring your voice cuts through noisy environments, making conversations crystal clear for the person on the other end.
Battery life is another strong suit for the AirPods 4. With up to 5 hours on a single charge and a total of 30 hours with the redesigned, more compact USB-C charging case, these earbuds are built to last throughout your day. The IP54 rating for dust and sweat resistance also means you don’t have to worry about them during intense workouts or in less-than-ideal weather conditions. The inclusion of USB-C charging is a convenient update, aligning with modern charging standards and making them compatible with a wider range of devices. The in-ear sensor for auto-play/pause and the Find My app integration for tracking down lost buds are thoughtful touches that enhance the overall usability and peace of mind.
Our Verdict
The Apple AirPods 4 are a solid upgrade, particularly for those deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. They deliver on comfort, offer a truly engaging personalized audio experience, and boast impressive battery life, all wrapped in a user-friendly package. While the absence of active noise cancellation might be a drawback for some, their overall performance and seamless integration make them a compelling choice at $99.
Prices accurate as of publication date. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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