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Apple AirPods 4 vs Apple AirPods (2nd generation)
Apple AirPods 4 ($129) vs Apple AirPods (2nd generation) ($34) — side-by-side specs, weight, pros and cons to help you pick the right true wireless.
Spec-by-spec
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4 | Apple AirPods (2nd generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129 | $34 |
| Weight | 40.9g | 46.2g |
| ANC | Active (on ANC model) | — |
| Battery | 5h / 30h case | 5h per charge, 24h with case |
| Chip | H2 | Apple H1 |
| Price | $129 (no ANC) / $179 (ANC) | — |
| Fit | One-size open ear | One-size, non-sealed |
| Feature | Personalized Spatial Audio | — |
| Charging | — | Lightning or Qi wireless case |
| Weight | — | 46.2g (Apple published: 4g bud x2 + 38.2g case) |
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 4
- ANC at $179 tier now
- H2 chip in base model
- Open design fits more people
- Personalized Spatial Audio
- Familiar AirPods form factor
- No ear tips for seal
- 6h battery (less than Pro)
- One-size fit not universal
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 carries lighter at 40.9g. Both are part of our curated true wireless index — tap through to check current pricing.
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