Apple’s basic AirPods are a ubiquitous sight despite facing criticism for their specifications and design. While newer models like the AirPods 4 have incorporated features such as the H2 chip and noise canceling, they still fall short compared to other products on the market.
The original AirPods were initially praised for being among the first wireless earbuds to function reliably, addressing the connection problems prevalent in earlier models from other brands. Notably, they solved the issue created by Apple’s removal of the headphone jack effectively.
Although the tipless design of the original AirPods had its shortcomings, it allowed users to engage in conversations without removing the earbuds. Over time, advancements in wireless earbud technology have resolved this transparency issue. Many modern earbuds, from JLab’s $60 Jbuds ANC to Apple’s own AirPods Pro, now include eartips, noise canceling, and transparency modes, eliminating the need for constant adjustments.
Currently, the entry-level AirPods raise several questions regarding their design choices. These models still lack eartips and struggle with noise canceling effectiveness due to the absence of a proper seal in the ear canal. Additionally, their 5-hour battery life, which diminishes over time, and sound quality comparable to lower-priced competitors, cast doubt on their value. Despite significant marketing investments by Apple, consumer preferences appear to favor the AirPods Pro, Apple’s best-selling model according to the company.
The AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Canceling appear nearly identical to each other and to older models, making it challenging to distinguish between them visually. One noticeable difference is the smaller sensor in the latest pairs. The AirPods 4 with ANC ($179) feature wireless charging and a speaker for Apple’s Find My technology, which are not present in the $129 AirPods 4. However, the external hardware remains largely the same.
The case design for both models stands out for its compact, sleek build, fitting easily into small pockets. There is a hope for a similar design update for the AirPods Pro 2. The latest AirPods now include USB-C charging, aligning with upcoming European Union regulations for a universal charging connector, effective this December.