I’ve been using the AirPods (4th Gen) for a while now, and while they’re good, they don’t quite live up to the hype or my expectations. They offer some solid features, but there are definite areas for improvement, especially when compared to the AirPods Pro.
Let’s start with the positives. The sound quality is decent. It’s not going to blow you away, but it does the job for casual listening. The mids and highs are clear, and the audio is balanced enough for genres like pop, classical, or podcasts. However, if you’re someone who loves deep bass or wants a more immersive listening experience, you might find these a bit lacking. The bass is present but far from punchy or rich.
The semi-decent noise cancellation is another area where I felt a bit underwhelmed. It’s there, but it’s not nearly as effective as what you’d get with the AirPods Pro. It blocks out some background noise in quieter environments, but in noisy places like cafes or public transport, it struggles to keep up. If noise isolation is a priority for you, this might not be the best choice.
Comfort is another point worth mentioning. For me, these aren’t as comfortable as I’d hoped. The fit is okay for short periods, but wearing them for extended sessions can become uncomfortable, especially if you’re moving around a lot. They also feel a bit loose in the ears, so I found myself adjusting them more than I’d like. If you have smaller or oddly shaped ears, the fit might be hit or miss.
Now, let’s talk about value. If you’re on a budget and can’t stretch to the AirPods Pro, these could be a reasonable compromise. They still integrate seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem, pairing effortlessly with devices and switching smoothly between them. However, if you can afford the AirPods Pro, I’d say they’re absolutely worth the extra money. The Pro version offers significantly better noise cancellation, a more secure and comfortable fit (thanks to the customizable ear tips), and richer, more dynamic sound quality.
In summary, the AirPods (4th Gen) are a decent pair of wireless earbuds, but they’re far from perfect. They’re good for everyday use and casual listeners, but for those looking for top-notch performance, comfort, and noise cancellation, the AirPods Pro are the way to go. If you can stretch your budget, skip these and invest in the Pro—you won’t regret it.