Apple AirPods 4 ANC Review: Strong Audio, Mixed Fit Verdict
Boasting a rare combination for open-ear earbuds — active noise cancellation that actually works — the Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (Renewed) are drawing unusually strong reactions from across the web. At an average score of 8.3–8.8/10 in professional tests and 4.4–4.7 stars from hundreds of verified buyers, they’re earning praise for fit, sound upgrades, and surprisingly capable ANC, though battery life and secure fit remain sticking points.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — best for Apple users who want ANC in an open design without silicone tips; less appealing for bass enthusiasts or long-haul listeners.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Noticeable ANC effect in noisy environments | Fit not secure for all ear shapes |
| Improved sound clarity and bass over AirPods 3 | Battery life underwhelms with ANC |
| Comfortable smaller design | Less bass impact than AirPods Pro 2 or rivals |
| USB‑C charging, Find My case speaker | No MagSafe support on ANC model |
| Seamless Apple ecosystem pairing | ANC weaker than premium earbuds |
Claims vs Reality
Apple’s marketing pushes three big claims: “ANC in open-ear design,” “Improved bass and clarity,” and “All-day comfort.” Digging deeper into user reports, each holds true — but with caveats.
On ANC, Apple calls it “the joy of quietude,” touting the H2 chip’s noise reduction in low-frequency environmental sounds. While this is accurate in relative terms, CNET’s reviewer noted, “The noise canceling is more adept at tamping down low frequencies… able to cut down the engine noise level by about 40% when I wore them on a plane,” adding it’s still “less than half as good” as AirPods Pro 2. Best Buy buyer rohantechnreview agreed: “Really surprised me… not quite over-ear headphone level, but super solid for earbuds.”
For sound, Apple highlights deeper bass and crystal-clear highs via a low-distortion driver and adaptive EQ. Reddit testers confirmed a lift: “Sound is a little cleaner… more bass… close to Pro 2” in quiet rooms. Yet TechGearLab’s lab curves exposed limits: “Lowest and highest bass notes still feel a bit anemic… adequate treble, well-defined mids.”
Comfort claims fared better. Trustpilot reviewer Max Buondonno wrote, “Wearing the AirPods 4 feels like nothing… they slot right in and sit comfortably… plenty of people enjoy this style.” However, active users caution that sweat or jaw movement can dislodge them.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
A recurring strength in feedback is voice clarity in calls. CNET’s David Carnoy called it “one of the best voice-calling experiences,” while Best Buy buyer preet wrote, “No background disturbances… whether I’m at the gym or walking outside in windy conditions.” This is particularly impactful for remote workers or commuters facing unpredictable noise.
ANC’s functional presence in an open design was another crowd-pleaser. Trustpilot reviewers highlighted subway and plane tests where surrounding noise dropped enough to enjoy music without cranking volume. For public transport users, this is a rare hardware/software success.
Sound upgrades over AirPods 3 were universal in remarks. Verified buyers described “super clear” audio, with alexm noting adaptive environments: “Automatically adjust to my surroundings… really comfortable, can wear for hours.” Listeners of spoken word content benefited most — TechGearLab found “raw, emotional vocals dominate… every crackle, breath… comes through over the delicate acoustic guitar.”
Common Complaints
Battery longevity surfaced across platforms. Real-world results often came in below Apple’s 5-hour claim with ANC off, closer to 4–4.5 hours. Trustpilot’s Buondonno found this “isn’t enough for flights or spending hours at your computer,” a central drawback for travel or marathon work sessions.
Fit instability was persistent, especially among sport users. Best Buy reviewer fit lamented, “They still don’t perfectly fit in my ear… fall out when I’m outside.” This compromises ANC effectiveness and overall usability for runners or gym-goers.
Bass impact disappointed certain genres. TechGearLab bluntly stated: “Turning up the volume does nothing to bulk up the relatively thin lower registers… not the best for hip-hop, EDM, and hard rock.” This matters most to those craving immersive low-frequency drive.
Divisive Features
Spatial audio with head tracking split opinions. Some praised immersive effects in movies and games, others found it ornamental. Max Buondonno admitted, “I’ve never been a fan… works as expected, like on the AirPods Pro.”
The design’s open-ear comfort was lauded by users avoiding silicone tips, but criticized for reduced passive noise isolation. love on Best Buy summarized: “Hate the tips on Pros, these are perfect… comfortable… noise canceling is very good for me,” directly opposed by TechGearLab’s testers calling comfort “not our favorite” for extended active wear due to lack of seal.
Trust & Reliability
Refurbished units follow Amazon Renewed and Best Buy Geek Squad standards, with consistent “works like new” remarks. Best Buy customer taylorw said, “Came like new… once I factory reset, no more previous owner notification.” Cases of connection hiccups were rare but present — christopherb described “occasional audio cuts or sounds unusually deep.”
Longevity reports from regular use (3–6 months) remain positive, with many citing stable battery health and intact ANC function. In noise-heavy work environments — from bubbles mj in a club to djufu1 in a school — performance matched early impressions.
Alternatives
Within Apple’s lineup, AirPods Pro 2 remain the closest competitor. Several reviewers noted they often drop to similar prices on sale, making the Pro 2’s stronger ANC, customizable tips, and bonus features better value unless open-ear comfort is a priority. Outside Apple, Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds and Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 were recommended by TechGearLab for superior sound, app control, and passive isolation — but at increased price.
Price & Value
Originally priced $179.99 new, renewed units are seen from $104.99–$129.99, with some auction sales under $50. Community advice leans towards catching sales — Carnoy suggested entry-level AirPods 4 “should cost closer to $100 during flash sales.” Buyers warn that when AirPods Pro 2 dips below $200, the value proposition shifts heavily to the Pro.
For resale, open-ear designs historically maintain moderate value in renew/refurb markets due to consistent Apple ecosystem demand. However, lack of MagSafe charging on ANC model slightly dampens secondhand appeal.
FAQ
Q: Does ANC work without a physical seal?
A: Yes, but at reduced effectiveness. Users report noticeable drops in ambient low-frequency noise; it’s not Pro-level isolation but enough for commuting and casual use.
Q: Is the fit secure for running?
A: It depends on ear shape and activity. Many find them comfortable but prone to slipping with sweat or jaw movement, so serious runners may prefer tip-based designs.
Q: Can I charge them wirelessly?
A: Only the ANC model supports wireless charging, and it lacks MagSafe. Non‑ANC units require USB‑C cable charging.
Q: How’s call quality compared to older AirPods?
A: Stronger — voice isolation minimizes background noise; multiple reviewers call it the best of the regular AirPods to date.
Q: Should I choose these over AirPods Pro 2?
A: If you prioritize open-air comfort and dislike silicone tips, yes. If ANC strength and secure fit matter more, get the Pro 2, especially when on sale.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re an Apple user seeking open-ear comfort with ANC for commutes, calls, and mixed-media listening. Avoid if you need hour-after-hour battery life, gym-proof fit, or deep bass for club tracks. Pro tip from community: wait for discounts — or pivot to AirPods Pro 2 when price parity hits, gaining the full seal and stronger noise suppression.
