Apple AirPods 4 (ANC) vs Apple AirPods (2nd generation)
Apple AirPods 4 (ANC) ($179) vs Apple AirPods (2nd generation) ($34) — side-by-side specs, weight, pros and cons to help you pick the right audio.
Spec-by-spec
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 (ANC) | Apple AirPods (2nd generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $179 | $34 |
| Weight | 43.3g | 46.2g |
| Battery | 30h total | 5h per charge, 24h with case |
| ANC | Adaptive | — |
| Fit | Open | One-size, non-sealed |
| Chip | H2 | Apple H1 |
| Charging | — | Lightning or Qi wireless case |
| Weight | — | 46.2g (Apple published: 4g bud x2 + 38.2g case) |
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 4 (ANC)
- Open-fit ANC
- USB-C
- H2 chip
- Open fit ANC limited
- No wireless case (base)
Apple AirPods (2nd generation)
- H1 chip adds hands-free Hey Siri
- Optional wireless charging case, a real upgrade over 1st gen
- Same reliable instant pairing
- Still among the lightest true wireless buds sold
- No ANC or Transparency mode
- Sound is basic, no bass to speak of
- Non-sealed fit leaks audio and outside noise equally
- Battery health on a used pair is a gamble
Apple AirPods (2nd generation) is the better value at $34. If weight matters most, Apple AirPods 4 (ANC) carries lighter at 43.3g. Both are part of our curated audio index — tap through to check current pricing.