The Apple AirPods 4 are designed for iPhone, iPad and other Apple device users who want wireless earbuds that are easy to connect and a pleasure to use every day. But a tempting product spec sheet isn't always enough to make the right choice. The type of charging case, the real-world battery life depending on which features are active, and even the level of moisture protection can noticeably change your day-to-day experience.
Before comparing the offers, here are the main pitfalls to avoid.
The claim "up to 30 hours" refers to the combined battery life with the charging case, not continuous listening. According to the model's specifications, the earbuds last up to 5 hours on a single charge. The version with active noise cancellation claims up to 4 hours when this feature is activated, with a total battery life of up to 30 hours with the case.
Actual battery life depends on volume level, calls, spatial audio and noise control modes. On daily commutes, this difference becomes more noticeable over the course of a day than during a short listening session.
The AirPods 4 are described as resistant to dust, sweat and splashes to the IP54 standard. This certification does not mean they are waterproof or that they can be submerged.
They can accompany you on a walk, a bike ride or a moderate workout, but it's best to avoid the pool, the shower and prolonged exposure to rain. The charging case should also be kept away from moisture.
Active noise cancellation really comes into its own on the tube, on a plane or in a busy office. It's far less essential for listening to podcasts at home or staying aware of your surroundings while out for a stroll.
A noise reduction mode can also dampen certain ambient sounds. In situations where you need to stay fully alert, Transparency mode, or even having no noise cancellation at all, will often be more suitable.
The Apple AirPods 4 feature the H2 chip, which handles audio processing, noise management and call clarity. The spec sheet also mentions beamforming microphones and a skin-detect sensor.
However, the chip isn't everything. When choosing Apple Bluetooth earbuds, also look at:
Personalised spatial audio with dynamic head tracking can make certain compatible content more immersive. How useful this is depends largely on your listening habits and the apps you use.
Not all cases offer the same features. The standard model comes with a USB-C charging case. The version with active noise cancellation adds, according to the published specifications, wireless charging compatible with Qi chargers and Apple Watch chargers.
This difference matters if you already own a wireless charger. If not, a simple USB-C cable may be perfectly sufficient. If you travel often, also think about your phone's battery life: a small USB-C power bank can save you from hunting for a plug on public transport or during a weekend away.
Apple earbuds designed for the iPhone stand out for their quick pairing with the brand's devices. The AirPods 4 are announced as compatible with iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, Apple TV and Apple Vision Pro.
Simply open the case near an iPhone or iPad and the pairing instructions will appear on screen. Connection to another Bluetooth device is still possible, but certain features specific to the Apple ecosystem may not be available, or may work in a more limited way.
Why this choice suits this profile: This model is perfect for a first pair of wireless Apple earbuds. It covers the essentials — calls, music and podcasts — without pushing up the price with active noise cancellation.
The spec sheet clearly distinguishes battery life per charge from total battery life with the case, and reminds you that IP54 resistance is not a substitute for true waterproofing.
H2 chip, Apple ecosystem integration, USB-C case, personalised spatial audio and up to 30 hours of battery life with the case, depending on usage conditions.
Why this choice suits this profile: This version is built for regular commutes, noisy offices and anyone who wants to switch easily between noise cancellation, adaptive audio and Transparency mode.
The spec sheet distinguishes battery life with noise cancellation, claimed at up to 4 hours, from total battery life with the case. It also reminds you of the limits of IP54 certification.
Active noise cancellation, H2 chip, USB-C and wireless charging, plus a built-in speaker in the case for the Find My feature.
Why this choice suits this profile: This option may appeal to users who want to compare a generation presented as more recent, with noise cancellation, a USB-C case and additional features depending on the Apple device you use.
Before you head to the checkout, check the announced software compatibility and the features that are actually available with your iPhone. This stops you paying for options you won't be able to use.
H2 chip, active noise cancellation, personalised spatial audio, USB-C case and up to 4 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation, depending on usage conditions.
We've put together a comprehensive, real-time updated selection of products that meet these demanding criteria, while complying with European safety regulations.
To keep your Apple Bluetooth earbuds in good condition, a few simple habits are all you need:
IP54 certification protects against dust and certain splashes, but it doesn't replace careful drying after contact with sweat or rain.
Open the case near your iPhone, then follow the animation and on-screen instructions. To connect the AirPods to another Bluetooth device, open the Bluetooth settings and select them after activating the case's pairing mode.
They can be used as Bluetooth earbuds with an Android device. However, full integration — quick pairing, Siri, Find My and certain advanced settings — remains mainly reserved for compatible Apple devices.
The standard model offers up to 5 hours of listening per charge and up to 30 hours with the case, depending on usage conditions. For the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation, the spec sheet claims up to 4 hours per charge with ANC, and up to 30 hours with the case. Volume level, calls and audio features can all reduce these figures.