AirPods 4 vs. AirPods Pro 2 – which is better? Comparison guide 2025: the differences, pros, cons, prices, features, and performance in this blog before deciding to buy it.
Table of Contents
Introduction – Apple’s AirPods Evolution
A Brief History of Apple’s Wireless Earbuds
When Apple first launched AirPods in 2016, it revolutionized the wireless audio market. Since then, Google has constantly raised the standard of the product by launching several updated models with better sound, longer battery life, and smarter features. Apple fans are facing a new dilemma and that is AirPods 4 vs AirPods Pro 2—which is better?
What’s New in 2025?
Recently, Apple updated the AirPods 4 without any notification, adding new features inside the AirPods 4 that differentiate it between its standard and Pro models. Meanwhile, the AirPods Pro 2, which has been receiving high ratings since its launch in the market, still dominates the premium segment. Let’s compare the two and see which one suits your life and budget.
AirPods 4 Overview – What’s New?
Design and Build Quality
In terms of design, the AirPods 4 are a hybrid of the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro 2. They offer a more contoured shape than their previous versions and are slightly smaller, making them more comfortable and secure for everyday wear. However, they still don’t feature silicone ear tips, which are standard on the Pro model.
Audio Enhancements and Features
Apple has launched upgraded drivers for better bass and clearer mids, making the AirPods 4 a huge improvement over the AirPods 3. While they still lack active noise cancellation (ANC), they give you benefits for adaptive audio, personal spatial audio, and dynamic head tracking — technologies that were previously installed in Pro lineup.
Battery Life Improvements
You can expect about 6 hours of listening time and up to 30 hours with the MagSafe-enabled charging case. This is on par with the AirPods Pro 2 and better than many wireless earbuds in this price range
Price and Availability in the USA
The AirPods 4 are priced at around $179 in the US, placing them in the budget bracket between the AirPods 3 and the Pro series. They are widely available through Apple, Amazon, Best Buy, and other major online retail platforms.
AirPods Pro 2 Overview – Still Worth It?
Premium Design and Fit
The Pro 2 also features a compact form factor with customisable silicone ear tips that provide a comfortable, secure fit. The stem is shorter than the AirPods 4 and also features pressure-sensitive controls for better use.
Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode
One of its best features is Active Noise Cancellation, which dynamically adapts to your environment. In contrast, the Transparency mode lets ambient sounds in, making it suitable for outdoor use or office use.
Adaptive EQ and Spatial Audio
The Pro 2 has an inbuilt Adaptive EQ that automatically tunes the music to the shape of your ear. This, combined with personalised spatial audio, gives you a cinematic experience that is hard to match for any other brand.
Price and Market Position in 2025
As of now, the AirPods Pro 2 will be priced around $249, although discounts vary. They remain a favorite choice for those who want the latest and top Apple audio technology.
Design & Comfort Comparison
Which One Fits Better?
The AirPods Pro 2 wins out over the AirPods 4 with its in-ear design and customizable tips as it has more leverage for people who don’t like in-ear pressure but might not want to stay in during a workout.
Materials and Build Durability
Both are made of durable materials, are IPX4-rated for sweat and water resistance, and have nearly identical charging cases. However, the Pro 2 has a slightly more premium feel.
Sound Quality – Who Wins?
Audio Drivers and Bass Response
Thanks to high-excursion drivers, the AirPods Pro 2 offer punchier bass and more detailed treble. The AirPods 4 sound great for casual listeners, but not so good for audiophiles.
Call Quality & Microphone Performance
Both models include beamforming mics and voice isolation tech, but the Pro 2 slightly edges out with clearer call quality and better noise suppression in windy environments.
Feature Face-Off: Smart Features & Sensors
Find My Integration
Both earbuds offer Find My support, with the Pro 2 featuring U1 chip integration for accurate case tracking. The AirPods 4 still let you locate them via Bluetooth pinging.
Touch Controls and Customization
AirPods Pro 2 include touch volume controls, whereas AirPods 4 enable basic tap motions. Both devices offer iOS customization.
Sweat and Water Resistance
Both earphones have an IPX4 rating, making them appropriate for light workouts and rainy weather. Still, the Pro 2’s in-ear seal provides added confidence during strenuous activity.
Performance and Battery Life
Chipset Differences (H2 vs H1)
AirPods Pro 2 are powered by the Apple H2 chip, which allows for smarter ANC, lower latency, and improved audio quality. AirPods 4 are powered by an H2 or a new mid-tier chip, which provides reliable but slightly less powerful performance.
Charging Case Differences (MagSafe, USB-C)
Both cases now allow USB-C charging (until late 2024), MagSafe, and wireless charging. The Pro 2 case has a built-in speaker and lanyard loop, which are missing from the AirPods 4.
Compatibility and Ecosystem Integration
iOS 17 Features for AirPods
With iOS 17, both models now feature Audio Handoff, Live Listen, Adaptive Audio, and Personalized Volume. Nonetheless, Pro 2 models respond better to Siri and have improved background noise detection.
Switching Between Apple Devices
Automatic switching between iPhone, Mac, and iPad is flawless on both devices, however the Pro 2 performs somewhat faster thanks to the U1 chip and newer firmware.
AirPods 4 vs AirPods Pro 2: Price Comparison in the US
| Feature | AirPods 4 | AirPods Pro 2 |
| MSRP | $179 | $249 |
| Best Deal Price | ~$159 | ~$199 |
| Availability | Widely available | Also widely available |
| Value for Money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
FAQs – AirPods 4 vs AirPods Pro 2
Do AirPods 4 have noise cancellation?
No, they do not have Active Noise Cancellation but support Adaptive Audio and Personalized Spatial Audio.
Are AirPods Pro 2 still worth it in 2025?
Yes, they remain the best Apple earbuds for premium sound and ANC performance.
Can both models be used with Android phones?
Yes, but functionality is limited—no Siri, Spatial Audio, or auto-switching.
Is there a noticeable sound difference between AirPods 4 and Pro 2?
Yes, especially in bass depth and noise isolation.
Are AirPods Pro 2 better than the AirPods 4?
Yes, AirPods Pro 2 offer better noise cancellation, sound quality, and features compared to AirPods 4.
Are the new AirPods 4 worth it?
Yes, if you want an affordable upgrade with improved battery life and sound, AirPods 4 are worth considering.
Do AirPods 4 have noise cancellation?
No, AirPods 4 do not have active noise cancellation like the Pro models.
Which generation of AirPods are the best?
The AirPods Pro 2 are widely considered the best overall for features, comfort, and sound quality.
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