Airpods 4 – what is worth knowing about them?
AirPods 4 are the next generation of Apple wireless headphones with an open design. In terms of design, they look almost identical to the previous models. The most important change is slightly smaller casewhich is equipped with USB-C port (replaced the Lightning connector).
The heart of Apple headphones is H2 chip (same as AirPods Pro 2) that provides lower latencies (standard support Bluetooth 5.3) and improves audio quality during calls. AirPods 4 also received a new one 11mm transducer.
AirPods 4 meet the requirements IP54 certificate. This means that they are resistant to water (protection against water splashes from any direction) and dust to a limited extent.
AirPods 4 – what did I like the most?
AirPods 4 are the first headphones in the series to receive active noise reduction function (although a cheaper version without ANC is also available). Apple has already shown that it “knows ANC” when the company presented AirPods Pro 2 [TU ZNAJDZIECIE NASZÄ„ RECENZJĘ]. In the case of AirPods 4, however, the task was much more difficult, because these are open headphones and not – like AirPods Pro 2 – in-ear headphones.
However, I must admit that the manufacturer definitely passed the test. The ANC function works great in Apple's “fleas”. Of course, AirPods Pro 2 are still better in this respect, but the difference in their favor is smaller than I expected.
The new 11mm driver in turn influenced improving sound quality. The sound is much more present now balancedand at the same time nuanced – in all bands. While listening, a better one also caught my attention instrument separation. In addition, for the first time, the function is available in “cheaper” AirPods personalized surround soundwhich further bridges the difference between the “fours” and the AirPods Pro 2 model.
Read also: Apple presents new AirPods 4 headphones. They will have ANC, but there is one catch
AirPods 4 – what disappointed me?
Apple caused a lot of confusion by offering two different AirPods 4 models. The cheaper one (for PLN 649) lacks ANC (a key function) and does not support wireless charging (Qi). The model with ANC and Qi is more expensive because it costs as much as PLN 899
It is also worth remembering that active ANC significantly affects the time operation of headphones on battery. When the function is turned off, we can count on approximately 5 hours of listening time (up to 30 hours including charging in Euti). With ANC activated, this time drops to 4 hours (up to 20 hours including charging in the case).
AirPods 4 – VERDICT
AirPods 4 are, in my opinion, one of the best open-design in-ear headphones on the market. The ANC doesn't just work here. But it works very well. If you want to get rid of the tiring “office hustle” but can't afford to cut yourself off completely, AirPods 4 may be the perfect compromise.