AirPods Pro vs AirPods 4 – Which Should You Buy?

Choosing the right pair of wireless earbuds depends on your lifestyle, listening habits, and the features you value most. Apple offers several options, and the AirPods Pro and AirPods 4 stand out as two distinct choices. The AirPods Pro are known for their active noise cancellation, customizable fit, and immersive sound. On the other hand, the AirPods 4 aim to provide a refreshed standard AirPods experience with better battery life and spatial audio. This article will highlight the key differences to help you decide which model fits your needs best.

Side By Side Comparison

Detailed Feature Comparisons

Design and Construction
The AirPods Pro use an in-ear design with silicone tips that create a tight seal, helping improve noise isolation and audio quality. In contrast, the AirPods 4 continue Apple’s traditional semi in-ear approach, which some users find more comfortable for extended wear. The AirPods Pro are generally preferred by users who want a secure fit during workouts or travel.

Sound Performance
The AirPods Pro offer richer bass and better overall clarity thanks to their in-ear seal and active noise cancellation. They also support Adaptive EQ, which automatically tunes music to your ear shape. The AirPods 4 are expected to include a refined version of Spatial Audio but may not match the same low-end depth as the Pro model.

Noise Cancellation and Transparency
One of the biggest differences is that the AirPods Pro feature Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode. This allows users to block out noise in busy environments or let ambient sound in when needed. The AirPods 4 are not expected to include these features, making the Pro a better fit for users who prioritize sound isolation.

Battery Life
The AirPods 4 are projected to improve battery performance, offering up to 6 hours per charge and a longer total case life than the AirPods Pro. In contrast, the Pro model averages around 4.5 hours with ANC active. This makes the AirPods 4 a more convenient option for long daily use without charging interruptions.

Case and Charging
The AirPods Pro ship with a Lightning and MagSafe-compatible case, while the AirPods 4 are expected to fully adopt USB-C alongside MagSafe, aligning with Apple’s newer charging ecosystem. This change makes the AirPods 4 more future-proof for users with USB-C iPhones or Macs.

Controls and Sensors
AirPods Pro use a force sensor for squeeze-based controls, which offer tactile feedback. The AirPods 4 are expected to use capacitive touch controls for tapping and sliding, similar to the AirPods Pro 2. While both are effective, the updated controls on AirPods 4 could offer more gesture flexibility.

Durability and Resistance
Both models offer IPX4 water resistance for sweat and light splashes. However, only the AirPods Pro case shares this same rating. This might make the Pro slightly more durable in unpredictable weather or workouts where the case is exposed.

Smart Features and Chip
The AirPods Pro use Apple’s H1 chip, supporting quick pairing and seamless switching. The AirPods 4 are expected to include an upgraded chip, likely H2, which would enhance Bluetooth performance, lower latency, and potentially support future software features. Users embedded in the Apple ecosystem may benefit from these improvements.

FAQ

Do the AirPods 4 have active noise cancellation?
No, the AirPods 4 are not expected to include active noise cancellation. That feature remains exclusive to the AirPods Pro and AirPods Pro 2.

Are the AirPods Pro still worth buying in 2025?
Yes, especially for users who value noise cancellation, a customizable in-ear fit, and better passive sound isolation. They still offer strong performance despite being an older model.

What kind of charger do the AirPods 4 use?
The AirPods 4 are expected to adopt USB-C charging along with MagSafe compatibility, which aligns with Apple’s newer devices like iPhone 15.

Which model is more comfortable for long listening sessions?
This depends on preference. The AirPods 4’s open fit is lighter and often more comfortable for users who dislike in-ear tips, while the Pro’s seal is better for focused listening or exercise.

Is Spatial Audio available on both AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro?
Yes, both models support Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for a surround-like experience with compatible Apple devices.

Do either models support Find My tracking?
Yes, both the AirPods Pro and AirPods 4 support the Find My network, though the newer model may offer enhanced tracking with precise location.

Which has better battery life?
The AirPods 4 are expected to last longer both per charge and overall with the case. This makes them better for all-day listening without interruption.

Can I use AirPods 4 with Android devices?
Yes, you can use both models with Android via Bluetooth, but you will lose access to features like automatic switching, Spatial Audio, and Siri integration.

Do the AirPods 4 include ear tips like the Pro model?
No, the AirPods 4 are designed as open-fit earbuds without interchangeable ear tips, unlike the in-ear Pro which comes with multiple tip sizes.

Is the sound quality better on the AirPods Pro or AirPods 4?
The AirPods Pro generally offer fuller, more immersive sound thanks to the in-ear design and active noise cancellation. However, the AirPods 4 will likely offer improved audio over the AirPods 3.