AirPods 5

The AirPods 4 are Apple's standard wireless earbuds, featuring a revised design with a more comfortable fit, force sensors, Adaptive EQ, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, Active Noise Cancellation for the higher-end model, and more. The AirPods 4 launched in September 2024, and we're nearing the end of the product cycle. Now is not the best time to buy the AirPods 4, though we don't yet have timing on when Apple might launch the AirPods 5.

The AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) have the same design, but the version without ANC is priced at $129 and the version with ANC is priced $50 higher at $179. The higher price tag also includes a MagSafe Charging Case with Find My integration, but otherwise, the feature set is the same.

$129 is a competitive price for earbuds, and $179 is the same price as the prior-generation AirPods 3. The H2 chip inside the AirPods 4 provides a quick pairing and device-switching experience for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV users, which more affordable headphones from competing companies are unable to match. The H2 chip also enables features like Adaptive EQ and spatial audio with dynamic head tracking. This means that when used with Apple devices, AirPods seem to be the best option for earbuds when it comes to features.

If you are looking for AirPods with more to offer like in-ear silicone tips and better Active Noise Cancellation, check out the AirPods Pro 3 which start at $249. For an even higher-fidelity AirPods experience and an over-ear design, there are the AirPods Max, which start at $549.

• AirPods 4 vs. AirPods 4 With ANC Buyer's Guide: Which Should You Choose?
• AirPods 4 vs. AirPods Pro 3 Buyer's Guide: 25 Differences Compared
• AirPods 4 vs. Previous Generations Buyer's Guide: All Upgrades Compared

To get MacRumors readers the best prices on the AirPods, we have a dedicated AirPods deals guide that highlights the best sales each month.