Apple AirPods 2 & 4 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as sound quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Apple AirPods 4 rather than the Apple AirPods 2.
Why Do I Recommend The Apple AirPods 4?
- The Apple AirPods 4 uses the newer H2 chip, offering better sound quality, improved noise cancellation, and more efficient battery performance compared to the older H1 chip in the AirPods 2.
- The AirPods 4 has improved ANC, advanced algorithms & better hardware to block out more ambient noise, providing a high-quality listening experience, but the AirPods 2 lacks ANC.
- It offers Adaptive Transparency, which dynamically adjusts the transparency mode based on the noise level around you, but AirPods 2 does not have this feature.
- The AirPods 4 has an IP54 rating and offers better dust and water resistance, while the AirPods 2 lacks water resistance.
- It supports Spatial Audio, enhancing immersive listening experiences, while AirPods 2 lacks Spatial Audio.
- Upgraded Bluetooth 5.3 in the AirPods 4 ensures a more stable connection, improved range, and potentially lower latency than Bluetooth 5.0 in the AirPods 2.
- The AirPods 4 feature a more compact design with shorter stems for a more comfortable and secure fit compared to the longer stems of the 2nd generation.
Maybe the Apple AirPods 2 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Apple AirPods 4. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
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Side By Side Comparison
Feature | Apple AirPods 4 | Apple AirPods 2 |
Chip | H2 | H1 |
Audio Features | Spatial Audio, Adaptive EQ | Standard audio |
Microphone | Voice Isolation | Standard microphones |
Water Resistance | IP54-rated | None |
Battery Life | 6 hours (30 with case) | 5 hours (24 with case) |
Charging Case | USB-C, MagSafe | Lightning port |
Controls | Force sensor | Double-tap |
Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.0 |
Design | Shorter stems | Longer stems |
Price | Check AirPods 4 Price | Check AirPods 2 Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- Wireless Connectivity: Both generations utilize Bluetooth technology, enabling seamless pairing and stable connections with Apple devices.
- Automatic Device Switching: Both models can automatically switch between Apple devices signed in to the same iCloud account, enhancing user convenience.
- Siri Integration: Both generations support “Hey Siri” voice activation, allowing users to control their devices hands-free.
- Charging Case: Both come with a charging case that provides additional charges, extending the total listening time beyond the earbuds’ standalone battery life.
- In-Ear Detection: Sensors in both models detect when the AirPods are in the user’s ears, automatically playing or pausing audio to conserve battery and enhance user experience.
- Microphone: Both generations feature built-in microphones, facilitating clear voice calls and enabling voice commands.
- Accelerometer: Equipped with motion-detecting accelerometers, both models can detect movement and gestures, contributing to features like automatic ear detection and motion-based controls.
- Compatibility: Both AirPods (2nd and 4th Generation) are compatible with Apple devices running the latest versions of iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and macOS, ensuring broad usability across the Apple ecosystem.
Common Features
Feature | Apple AirPods 4 | Apple AirPods 2 |
Wireless Connectivity | Seamless pairing via Bluetooth | Seamless pairing via Bluetooth |
Device Switching | Automatic switching | Automatic switching |
Siri Integration | “Hey Siri” voice activation | “Hey Siri” voice activation |
In-Ear Detection | Yes | Yes |
Microphone | Built-in microphones | Built-in microphones |
Compatibility | Apple devices with iCloud | Apple devices with iCloud |
Charging Case | Extends listening time | Extends listening time |
Accelerometer | Detects movement and gestures | Detects movement and gestures |
Price | Check AirPods 4 Price | Check AirPods 2 Price |
FAQ
Q: Are AirPods 4 and AirPods 2 compatible with older Apple devices? Q: Do both AirPods models support “Hey Siri” activation? Q: Can I use the same charging case for both AirPods 2 and AirPods 4? Q: Do both models automatically pause music when I remove an AirPod? Q: Are the microphones the same in both models? Q: Can I switch between devices seamlessly with both AirPods models? Q: Do AirPods 2 and AirPods 4 have the same audio quality? Q: Are both models sweat and water-resistant? Q: Which model has better battery life? Q: What Bluetooth version do AirPods 2 and AirPods 4 use? |