Apple
Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC)
H2 · Open-fit · ANC · USB-C
88
/ 100
From $179
VS
Apple
AirPods 4 (ANC)
True-wireless · 2024
88
/ 100
From $179
Specdex verdict
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) lands at 88 and AirPods 4 (ANC) at 88. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) if…
- ✓First open-fit AirPods with ANC
- ✓H2 chip for spatial audio + adaptive ANC
- ✓USB-C charging case
Pick AirPods 4 (ANC) if…
- ✓Compact carry
- ✓Platform integration (brand-dependent)
- ✓Quick pair
Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) 88
vs 88 AirPods 4 (ANC)
Score breakdown
Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC)
88 anc 84
sound 88
comfort 96
battery 84
features 92
AirPods 4 (ANC)
88 anc 85
sound 87
comfort 86
battery 78
features 84
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) | AirPods 4 (ANC) |
|---|---|---|
| Driver | Custom dynamic | — |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | — |
| Codecs | AAC + Lossless (Vision Pro) | — |
| Battery | 5 hr (30 hr with case) | — |
| Charging | USB-C | — |
| Weight | 4.3 g per bud | — |
| Form factor | Open-fit (no tips) | — |
| Type | — | True-wireless |
| Release year | — | 2024 |
Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC)
Pros
- +First open-fit AirPods with ANC
- +H2 chip for spatial audio + adaptive ANC
- +USB-C charging case
Cons
- −Open-fit ANC depth less than sealed Pro tier
- −No interchangeable tips
- −iPhone-leaning ecosystem
AirPods 4 (ANC)
Pros
- +Compact carry
- +Platform integration (brand-dependent)
- +Quick pair
Cons
- −Battery life limited
- −Fit varies by ear
- −Case bulkier than pod
FAQ: Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) vs AirPods 4 (ANC)
Which is better, Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) or AirPods 4 (ANC)? +
Both score 88 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) worth the price? +
At $179, Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in comfort.
Is AirPods 4 (ANC) worth the price? +
At $179, AirPods 4 (ANC) delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in sound.
Does Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) or AirPods 4 (ANC) last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.