Apple’s AirPods 4 Review: A Closer Look at the Latest Earbuds
If you’re a fan of Apple’s AirPods like I am, you were probably eagerly anticipating the release of the fourth iteration. The promise of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) without ear tips, a compact case, and premium sound quality had me excited to try out these new earbuds. As a long-time AirPods user, I couldn’t wait to see how they compared to the previous versions.
Initially, the AirPods 4 felt like a dream. They were lightweight, comfortable, and seamlessly integrated into my daily activities. I found myself reaching for them more often than my AirPods Pro 2, especially during workouts or errands. However, as time went on, I started noticing some drawbacks that significantly impacted my overall experience with these earbuds.
The AirPods Pro 2 had spoiled me with its convenient volume control feature on the stem, a functionality that was sorely missed on the AirPods 4. While basic functions like playing/pausing and skipping tracks were still present, the lack of this extra control was a noticeable downgrade.
Another issue that became apparent was the battery life. Despite both models technically offering 30 hours of usage over multiple charges, I found myself reaching for the charger more frequently with the AirPods 4. The five-hour battery life per charge felt shorter in real-world scenarios, often leaving me with drained earbuds when I needed them the most.
Additionally, the Find My capabilities of the AirPods 4, while functional, lacked the advanced features of newer Apple devices. The reliance on Bluetooth range for tracking meant that locating misplaced earbuds could be a bit more challenging compared to models with the U1 or ultrawide band chip.
In conclusion, the AirPods 4 are a solid choice for Apple enthusiasts, but they do come with some trade-offs compared to the Pro models. Despite these drawbacks, I plan to continue using mine, although I may find myself reaching for the AirPods Pro 2 more frequently in certain situations.
The Story So Far:
The AirPods 4 promised a sleek design, ANC technology, and premium sound quality, making them an attractive choice for Apple users. However, as I delved deeper into using these earbuds, certain limitations became more apparent.
Detailed Review:
The AirPods 4 offer a comfortable fit, seamless connectivity, and a compact case, making them ideal for daily use. However, the lack of volume control on the stem, shorter battery life, and limited Find My capabilities are notable drawbacks compared to the Pro models. Despite these limitations, the AirPods 4 still deliver a decent audio experience for casual users.
Conclusion:
While the AirPods 4 have their share of drawbacks, they remain a solid choice for Apple users looking for a lightweight and comfortable wireless earbud option. With a few compromises in functionality, these earbuds offer a good balance of convenience and audio quality for everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Are the AirPods 4 worth the upgrade from previous models?
– The AirPods 4 offer some new features like ANC and a compact design, but they also come with limitations compared to the Pro models. Consider your priorities before deciding on an upgrade.
2. What is the battery life like on the AirPods 4?
– The AirPods 4 provide five hours of battery life per charge, with a total of 30 hours over multiple charges. However, the real-world usage may vary, and some users may find themselves charging the earbuds more frequently.
3. How does the sound quality of the AirPods 4 compare to the Pro models?
– The AirPods 4 offer a decent audio experience, but audiophiles may notice a slight difference in sound quality compared to the Pro models. Consider your audio preferences before making a decision.
4. Can I track my AirPods 4 using the Find My feature?
– The AirPods 4 utilize Bluetooth range for the Find My feature, which may not be as precise as models with advanced tracking technology. Keep this in mind when locating misplaced earbuds.
5. Are the AirPods 4 comfortable for all-day wear?
– The AirPods 4 are designed for comfort and lightweight use, making them suitable for extended wear. However, some users may find the lack of ear tips less secure during vigorous activities.
6. Do the AirPods 4 have any water resistance?
– The AirPods 4 are not rated for water resistance, so it’s advisable to avoid exposing them to moisture or excessive sweat to prevent damage.
7. Can I customize the controls on the AirPods 4?
– The AirPods 4 offer limited control customization compared to the Pro models. Users may miss the convenience of volume control on the stem and other advanced functionalities.
8. How does the design of the AirPods 4 compare to previous models?
– The AirPods 4 feature a sleek and compact design that is similar to the previous iterations. The absence of ear tips and the smaller case make them a convenient choice for on-the-go use.
9. Are the AirPods 4 compatible with Android devices?
– While the AirPods 4 are optimized for use with Apple devices, they can still be paired with Android smartphones and other Bluetooth-enabled devices for basic audio playback.
10. What are some alternatives to the AirPods 4?
– Users looking for alternatives to the AirPods 4 can explore options from other brands like Samsung, Sony, or Jabra, which offer a range of wireless earbuds with different features and price points.
Tags:
Apple AirPods 4, Wireless Earbuds, ANC, Active Noise Cancellation, Audio Quality, Battery Life, Find My, Bluetooth Range, Comfortable Fit, Lightweight Design.