### AirPods 4 vs. AirPods 3: Which Should You Opt For?
As the festive shopping season approaches, Apple enthusiasts must decide between the latest **AirPods 4**, which come in two variants (with or without Active Noise Cancellation, or ANC), or the well-established **AirPods 3**. Whether you’re upgrading from a previous version or getting AirPods for the first time, this comparison will assist you in determining which choice meets your requirements.
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### **Cost and Availability**
The **AirPods 4** are offered in two versions:
– **Non-ANC model**: Regularly priced at **$129.99**, now available for **$119.99** during Black Friday.
– **ANC model**: Priced at **$179.99**, providing added features for an extra $50.
In comparison, the **AirPods 3**, released in 2021, also initially sold for **$179.99**. This positions the non-ANC AirPods 4 as a more budget-friendly entry into Apple’s wireless earbuds lineup.
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### **Design and Comfort**
Apple has improved fit concerns with the **AirPods 4**, which sport a newly designed shape for enhanced comfort. Based on thorough research into ear shapes, Apple has created a slimmer, more angular look compared to the **AirPods 3**, which feature larger, rounder inserts. The **AirPods 4** are also slightly more compact, although both models maintain the same weight (0.15 ounces).
Fit can be subjective, but many users have noted that the **AirPods 4** remain secure even during intense activities. Importantly, the **AirPods 4** do not come with silicone ear tips, preserving the open-ear design consistent across the AirPods range.
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### **Noise Cancellation and Audio Features**
The **AirPods 3** do not have **ANC**, **Transparency Mode**, or **Adaptive Audio**, making the **AirPods 4 ANC model** a major enhancement for users looking for these capabilities.
Apple has achieved notable ANC effectiveness in the **AirPods 4**, overcoming the difficulties of implementing noise cancellation in open-ear designs. Utilizing microphones from the **AirPods Pro 2**, the **AirPods 4 ANC model** significantly diminishes background noise, including conversations and high-frequency sounds, while allowing users to switch between **ANC**, **Transparency Mode**, and **Adaptive Audio**. However, the Adaptive Audio feature may occasionally misjudge which sounds to prioritize, prompting a preference for manual toggling.
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### **Touch Controls**
Both the **AirPods 3** and **AirPods 4** feature fundamental touch controls:
– **Play/pause**: Press the stem.
– **Next track**: Double-press the stem.
– **Previous track**: Triple-press the stem.
– **Answer calls**: Press the stem.
The **AirPods 4 ANC model** introduces the ability to toggle between ANC, Transparency, and Adaptive Audio modes by pressing and holding the stem. Sadly, neither model offers on-bud volume controls, a frequent user frustration.
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### **Audio Performance**
The **AirPods 3** already provide commendable sound quality, but the **AirPods 4** elevate it further with a superior amplifier and driver. This leads to reinforced bass, clearer mids, and sharper highs. Both versions support **Personalized Spatial Audio**, customizing the listening experience for your distinct ear shape. Nevertheless, the **AirPods 4** create a more immersive audio experience, particularly in the ANC model.
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### **Siri Features**
The **AirPods 4** feature **Siri Interactions**, a hands-free capability that isn’t available on the **AirPods 3**. With this functionality, you can nod to accept a call or shake your head to reject it, adding an extra level of convenience.
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### **Charging Case**
The **AirPods 4** include Apple’s tiniest charging case to date, enhancing their portability. The case has a **capacitive touch pairing button** on the front, replacing the physical button used in the **AirPods 3** case. Additionally, the **AirPods 4 case** comes with a **Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio**, allowing users to locate the case independently from the earbuds.
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### **Battery Life**
Apple claims that the **AirPods 3** provide **6 hours** of battery on a single charge. Testing recorded that the **AirPods 4** lasted **5 hours and 12 minutes**, slightly under Apple’s stated duration. While the **AirPods 3** may deliver marginally longer battery life, the variation is minor.
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### **Which Should You Purchase?**
– **Opt for the AirPods 4** if you prioritize advanced features such as ANC, Transparency Mode, enhanced sound performance, Siri Interactions, and a more compact, easily locatable case. The **ANC model** presents the best value for those in search of premium features.