Apple announced two AirPods 4 models at its September 9, 2024, event: AirPods 4, which launched at $129 in the United States, and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which launched at $179. Both went on sale September 20, 2024. The higher-priced model adds noise-control and case features, but both retain an open-ear fit rather than the sealed silicone tips of AirPods Pro.
What Apple announced
The AirPods 4 lineup consists of AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation. They share a redesigned open-ear shape, Apple’s H2 headphone chip, USB-C charging and several software-driven audio features. The ANC edition is not simply the standard model with noise cancellation enabled: it also comes with a case that supports wireless charging and has a speaker for Find My.
Apple announced the products during its September 9, 2024, event. The launch prices and release date below are historical U.S. launch details, not verified current prices. Apple’s announcement said preorders opened that day in the United States and more than 58 other countries and regions, with retail availability beginning September 20.
How the two AirPods 4 models differ
| Feature | AirPods 4 | AirPods 4 with ANC |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. launch price | $129 | $179 |
| Active Noise Cancellation | No | Yes |
| Transparency mode | No | Yes |
| Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness | No | Yes |
| Charging case | USB-C | USB-C, Qi-certified wireless charging and Apple Watch charger support |
| Find My case speaker | No | Yes |
| Listening time per charge | Up to 5 hours | Up to 4 hours with ANC enabled; up to 5 hours with noise control off |
| Total listening time with case | Up to 30 hours | Up to 20 hours with ANC enabled; Apple lists mode-dependent totals when noise control is off |
| Best suited to | Open-ear listeners who want Apple earbuds without ANC | Open-ear listeners who also want noise-control modes or wireless charging |
Feature and case details are from Apple’s AirPods 4 technical specifications and its September 2024 announcement.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
The open-ear design is the main trade-off
AirPods 4 sit in the ear without silicone tips sealing the ear canal. That can suit people who dislike the plugged-in feeling of in-ear earbuds, but fit and comfort vary from person to person. An open fit also provides less passive isolation than a sealed earbud and may be less secure in some ears. If you need a dependable seal for exercise, strong bass retention or substantial noise isolation, try the fit before buying or consider a silicone-tip model.
What ANC can—and cannot—change
The ANC version uses electronic noise control while keeping the open-ear design. It adds Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness, but the absence of a sealed fit remains relevant: ANC does not make AirPods 4 equivalent to AirPods Pro in passive isolation. Apple did not establish parity with Pro-level noise reduction in its announcement. Choose the ANC model for its extra modes and case options, not on the assumption that it will block the same amount of sound as sealed earbuds.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Design, sound and controls
Apple says the new shape was developed using 3D photogrammetry and laser topography, with analysis of thousands of ear shapes and more than 50 million individual data points. That describes Apple’s design process, not a guarantee that the earbuds will fit every listener better. The stem retains a force sensor, and both models use the H2 chip, a custom high-excursion driver, a high-dynamic-range amplifier, Adaptive EQ, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Voice Isolation and a vent system intended to equalize pressure. Apple also lists dual beamforming microphones and an inward-facing microphone. Apple’s technical specifications provide the component and control details.
Apple also describes low-latency wireless audio and 16-bit, 48kHz voice quality for gaming conversations. These are manufacturer claims, not independent comparative test results. Voice Isolation is intended to make a caller’s voice clearer in noisy surroundings.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Stem controls and Siri
- Press once to play or pause, answer a call, or mute or unmute during a call.
- Press twice to end a call or skip forward; press three times to skip back.
- Press and hold to invoke Siri.
- Compatible Apple devices can also use the earbuds as a Camera Remote.
Siri Interactions let users nod or gently shake their head to respond to certain spoken Siri announcements, including calls, messages and notifications. Availability depends on compatible Apple hardware and software.
Battery, charging and durability
Apple rates standard AirPods 4 for up to five hours of listening on a charge and up to 30 hours with the case. For AirPods 4 with ANC, Apple lists up to four hours per charge with ANC enabled and up to five hours with noise control off; case totals vary by mode. Apple also says a five-minute charge provides about one hour of listening. These are manufacturer “up to” figures under controlled testing, not guaranteed everyday runtimes; volume, calls, ANC, Spatial Audio, software and other conditions can change results. See Apple Support’s specifications for the battery and physical details.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Both cases charge over USB-C. The ANC model’s case additionally supports Qi-certified wireless charging and Apple Watch charging, and its speaker can help locate the case with Find My. Each earbud measures 30.2 by 18.3 by 18.1 mm and weighs 4.3 g. The standard case measures 46.2 by 50.1 by 21.2 mm and weighs 32.3 g; the ANC case weighs 34.7 g.
Both versions have an IP54 rating for dust, sweat and water resistance. That rating does not mean waterproof: do not submerge the earbuds or case, or treat them as suitable for swimming or showering.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Compatibility: basic Bluetooth versus Apple features
AirPods 4 can work as Bluetooth headphones with non-Apple devices, but Apple warns that functionality may be limited. Basic audio does not mean every advertised feature will work: automatic pairing and device switching belong to the Apple ecosystem, while features such as Personalized Spatial Audio, Siri Interactions, Voice Isolation and Camera Remote depend on compatible Apple hardware and software. Check the requirements for the specific feature and device rather than assuming every iPhone, iPad or Mac supports the full set. Apple’s specifications page notes the compatibility limitation.
AirPods 4 or AirPods Pro 2?
The decision is primarily about fit and isolation, not a simple ranking of features. AirPods 4 offer an open-ear alternative without silicone tips; their ANC edition adds noise control at the same time as it preserves that fit. AirPods Pro 2 use silicone tips to create a seal, which is generally the more suitable design for listeners prioritizing passive isolation, a secure fit or stronger noise reduction. Individual fit still matters.
Apple’s September 2024 announcement assigned Hearing Protection, Hearing Test, Hearing Aid and Media Assist features to AirPods Pro 2—not AirPods 4. Apple said availability depends on software, device and regional conditions. For a buyer focused on those hearing-health features, verify current eligibility and requirements on Apple’s announcement page.
Who should consider each model?
AirPods 4
- Consider the standard model if you want open-ear Apple earbuds and do not need ANC or wireless case charging.
- It is the lower-priced launch option for casual listening and Apple-device convenience.
AirPods 4 with ANC
- Consider it if you prefer an open fit but want ANC, Transparency mode, Adaptive Audio or Conversation Awareness.
- The wireless-charging case and Find My speaker may matter even if ANC is not your main reason to upgrade.
AirPods Pro 2
- Consider a sealed, silicone-tip design if you prioritize isolation, a more secure fit or Apple’s announced hearing-health features.
- Frequent flyers and commuters seeking substantial noise reduction may be better served by a sealed fit.
Launch price and availability
At launch in the United States, AirPods 4 cost $129 and AirPods 4 with ANC cost $179. Apple announced both on September 9, 2024, opened preorders that day, and began retail availability on September 20, 2024. Those figures describe the original U.S. launch, not current 2026 pricing or stock; current prices vary by retailer and region and are not established by the launch announcement.
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
