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? |
