The latest versions of Apple’s earbuds now feature shorter stems and larger buds, which better accommodate a variety of ear shapes. These open-style earbuds consist of a hard plastic body that doesn’t completely seal inside the ear, leading to some bass loss compared to gummy-tipped earbuds. However, the hardshell design prevents pressure buildup in the ear, reducing potential discomfort during long listening sessions.

The fourth-gen AirPods generally provide better sound compared to earlier models, thanks to a custom amplifier and new acoustic design. While audio quality can be subjective and varies based on how music is produced, former Verge staffer Chris Welch expressed satisfaction with the sound quality of Apple’s latest wireless earbuds in his review. Upgrading from an older pair will likely reveal noticeable differences.

The AirPods 4 run on Apple’s H2 chip, which is required for Voice Isolation, a feature that reduces background noise and amplifies the volume of your voice during calls. If you’re using an iPhone, you can say “Hey Siri” to evoke Apple’s smart assistant to place calls, hear and return messages, and play music. You can also locate the earbuds using the Find My app on Apple devices if they’re misplaced.

The entry-level model can last up to five hours on a single charge and can be fully charged five times using the included USB-C charging case (the ANC model also offers wireless charging). Both pairs of earbuds are also IP54-rated for dust, sweat, and water resistance, ensuring you can wear them safely during workouts. Needless to say, the AirPods 4 are excellent earbuds at their current price, whether you opt for the model with active noise cancellation or not.

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