Bluetooth earbuds have become as ubiquitous as smartphones, thanks largely to Apple’s revolutionary designs and marketing prowess. With the introduction of the first AirPods, Apple managed to recapture the same consumer excitement surrounding the original iPod. Over the years, the fundamental design of AirPods hasn’t shifted dramatically—minor tweaks here and there, mostly aimed at refining an already mature product. Yet, with the recent release of AirPods 4 and its variant, the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Apple continues to set the bar high in the wireless earbud market.
A Fork in the Road: AirPods 4 vs. AirPods 4 with ANC
During the iPhone 16 event, Apple unveiled not one, but two versions of its latest earbud model. The standard AirPods 4, priced at $129, and the slightly more sophisticated AirPods 4 with ANC, coming in at $179. This bifurcation marks a subtle yet significant shift in Apple’s strategy, offering consumers more choices while maintaining premium features across its range.
The naming strategy, as unwieldy as it sounds, reflects Apple’s straightforward approach to its product lineup. While the names might evoke a chuckle or two among branding experts, they certainly convey exactly what each product offers.
Design and Features: The Middle Child with Much to Offer
The AirPods 4 with ANC might well have been called AirPods 5 in another timeline. Externally identical to the standard AirPods 4, these earbuds sport a sleek, square charging case and an ergonomic design tailored to fit a variety of ear shapes, thanks to extensive research involving thousands of ear scans.
What sets the ANC version apart is not just its ability to block ambient noise—a feature it borrows from the pricier AirPods Pro—but also its inclusion of several high-end features such as wireless charging and a speaker for the FindMy network. For those wary of in-ear silicone tips, the AP4wANC provides a solid alternative, combining the comfort of an open design with effective noise-cancellation capabilities.
Pricing and Positioning: Strategically Placed
At $50 less than the AirPods Pro, the AP4wANC represents a significant saving for budget-conscious consumers who aren’t keen on silicone tips. This price difference, while not monumental, allows for a clear distinction in Apple’s lineup, catering to different preferences and budgets without compromising on core functionalities.
As reviewed by Brian Heater, the experience of using the AP4wANC is largely positive, with effective noise cancellation that handles most environments with ease. However, the lack of a complete seal does mean that some sound leakage is inevitable, particularly in noisier settings. This might not be an issue for casual listeners or those primarily using their earbuds for audiobooks or podcasts, but it could be a dealbreaker for audiophiles seeking a more immersive sound experience.
While rumours of an impending AirPods Pro 3 launch swirl, the introduction of high-end features in lower-tier models like the AP4wANC suggests that Apple is aiming to broaden its appeal by integrating advanced technologies across its product range. The recent FDA approval of a new feature that allows the premium model to double as over-the-counter hearing aids indicates a fascinating direction for future development, hinting at Apple’s commitment to health and accessibility advancements.
Despite fierce competition and a market flooded with cheaper alternatives, AirPods continue to stand out. They remain the gold standard by which all other wireless earbuds are judged, blending impeccable design with reliable functionality. For those looking to upgrade from older models or venturing into the world of high-quality wireless audio for the first time, the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation offers a compelling combination of features, comfort, and sound quality that is hard to beat for the price.
