Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds

Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds: Complete 2025 Review & Comparison

If you’ve been wondering whether Apple still has tricks up its sleeve for the AirPods lineup, the new AirPods 4 might just be your answer. 

These aren’t a minor refresh — they feel like Apple reimagined what wireless earbuds should be in 2025. From the moment you unbox them, there’s an immediate sense that something has changed.

In this review, we’ll explore their design and comfort improvements, audio and ANC upgrades, ecosystem integration, battery performance, and price-to-performance value. We’ll also compare the Standard and ANC models so you can decide which is right for you.

Design and Comfort Innovations

Apple didn’t just tweak the look this time — they’ve gone back to the drawing board.

Evolutionary Ergonomics

Built from thousands of ear scans, the AirPods 4 contour fits more naturally and securely than ever. No more subtle wiggling to keep them in place — they just stay put.

Featherweight Construction

At only 4.3g per earbud (15% lighter than before), they practically disappear once you’re wearing them.

Robust Protection

The IP54 rating means dust resistance and splash protection, making them more workout-ready than previous models.

Refined Controls

Stems now position the force sensors in a more natural grip zone, reducing accidental presses and improving tactile feel.

Intelligent Detection

Improved optical sensors detect ear placement faster and more accurately, pausing and resuming audio exactly when you expect.

Sound Quality and Audio Performance

The real magic of the AirPods 4 comes when you hit play. Apple’s audio engineers didn’t just boost specs — they rethought how open-fit earbuds should sound.

Active Noise Cancellation — The $50 Question

If you’re eyeing the ANC model, the main upgrade is right in the name. Apple’s Adaptive ANC adjusts in real-time to your environment, keeping noise out while keeping comfort in. Planes, buses, or the hum of AC units fade away, while Adaptive Audio Mode blends transparency and noise cancellation seamlessly. Yes, battery life is slightly shorter with ANC, but quick top-ups make it a non-issue.

Ecosystem Integration & Smart Features

One of Apple’s greatest strengths has always been the way its devices talk to each other, and the AirPods 4 continue that tradition:

  • Seamless Pairing & Switching – Instant connection and device swaps in under two seconds.
  • Enhanced Siri Integration – Voice commands work even in noisy spaces.
  • Find My with Sound-Enabled CaseBuilt-in speaker helps locate your earbuds or case.
  • Media Sharing – Two AirPods can connect to the same device without lag.
  • Cross-Platform Support – Still solid on non-Apple devices via Bluetooth.

Battery Life and Charging Options

Battery life holds up well whether you choose the Standard or ANC model:

  • Standard – ~5 hours listening per charge, ~30 hours total with the case.
  • ANC – ~4 hours listening per charge, ~20–30 hours total.
  • USB-C Charging – 30% faster than previous Lightning models.
  • Wireless Charging – MagSafe/Qi compatible on ANC model only.
  • Quick Charge – 5 minutes in the case gives about an hour of playback.

Price-to-Performance Analysis

At $129 for Standard and $179 for ANC, the value comes down to whether ANC, Adaptive Audio, Transparency Mode, and wireless charging are must-haves for you. 

The Standard model already outperforms many competitors in its range, while the ANC model competes with earbuds priced $200–$250. Plus, Apple’s history of 3–4 years of firmware support means you’re getting a product that lasts.

So, Which AirPods 4 Should You Get?

If you want the best sound and Apple integration at the lowest cost, the Standard model is a great pick. If you commute, travel often, or just crave top-tier noise control, the ANC model earns its higher price.

Either way, you’re getting one of the most refined, comfortable, and feature-packed pairs of open-fit earbuds in 2025. These AirPods 4 are among Amazon’s Best Sellers, and if you’re curious how they stack up against other favorites, you can explore more top-rated earbuds in the same category for comparison.


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