Apple AirPods 4 Review: Features, Sound Quality, and Performance Insights
Apple’s AirPods have long been a favorite among tech enthusiasts, and with the recent release of the AirPods 4, excitement was palpable. As a devoted user of the AirPods Pro 2, I was eager to see how the latest iteration would perform, especially with its touted features like active noise canceling (ANC) and a new sonic architecture. However, my experience has been a mixed bag, leaving me with lingering questions about their overall performance.
Design and Comfort
The design of the AirPods 4 is one of its standout features. The compact case is a triumph in portability, easily fitting into the smallest pockets without hassle. The earbuds themselves are sleek and precisely shaped, maintaining the signature Apple aesthetic. There’s a promise of improved comfort, and while I found them better than previous models, I still experienced some issues with fit. The open design means I often had to readjust them during use, which can be distracting, especially when noise canceling needs to recalibrate.
Active Noise Canceling
One of the primary selling points of the AirPods 4 is their active noise canceling capability. While it doesn’t quite match the performance of the AirPods Pro 2, it does a commendable job of reducing ambient noise, making it easier to focus on work or enjoy music. The additional modes, including adaptive and transparency settings, offer versatility, although I wish there were more intuitive ways to switch between these modes using the touch panels on the stems.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound, the AirPods 4 deliver a solid performance, but they do have their shortcomings. The emphasis on mid-range frequencies shines for vocals and acoustic instruments, providing clarity that is enjoyable. However, the bass, while present, lacks the punch needed to make it truly immersive. Additionally, high-end sounds can occasionally become harsh, which might be off-putting for audiophiles. Tracks that feature intricate cymbals or high notes can suffer from sibilance, diminishing the overall listening experience.
Technical Performance
On the technical side, I encountered some frustrating connectivity issues. Unlike the seamless experience I’ve had with previous AirPods, the AirPods 4 sometimes struggled to connect to my iPhone. The automatic pairing feature failed to work consistently, requiring me to manually initiate the connection. This was particularly frustrating given Apple’s reputation for intuitive interoperability. I also noted some difficulties with multipoint connectivity, where the earbuds seemed hesitant to switch between devices smoothly.
Value for Money
Pricing for the AirPods 4 is competitive, starting at $129 for the base model and $179 for the variant with ANC. For those who appreciate the Apple ecosystem, these earbuds represent a decent value, especially considering the features included. However, potential buyers should weigh these benefits against the competition in the market, as there are alternatives that may offer superior sound quality or connectivity options.
In summary, while the AirPods 4 have several appealing features and a design that prioritizes portability, there are notable areas that could benefit from improvement. The sound quality, fit, and technical performance present challenges that may lead some users to explore other options before making a decision.
