[REVIEW] Apple AirPods 4 Refine The Wireless Earbud Experience But They Have One Problem
One size doesn't fit all.
By Sukhbir Cheema — 12 Nov 2024, 05:20 PM
Apple's latest AirPods 4 bring welcomed advancements in audio quality, design, and user-friendly functionality, making them a good option for wireless earbud enthusiasts
With an updated H2 chip for improved connectivity and a new, more ergonomic design, the AirPods 4 offer better sound clarity, ease of use, and comfort for long hours of listening compared to their predecessors.
Design-wise, the AirPods 4 casing now no longer has a button compared to its predecessors. Instead, you enable pairing mode by tapping twice. The light indicator is also built-in, which lends a futuristic charm to the device.
The adaptive transparency mode, an upgrade from the previous AirPods, balances external noise naturally, allowing users to seamlessly transition from a noisy street to a quiet room without constantly adjusting their earbuds. This feature is only available on the AirPods Pro 2 and the AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) model.
The AirPods 4 weigh at a sweet 30 grams, making it lightweight. It's convenient if you're a frequent traveller or require an audio device for work.
The AirPods 4 also enhance Apple's already robust ecosystem integration
Features like automatic device switching, which works even faster with the H2 chip, and voice-activated Siri provide seamless multitasking without missing a beat.
Spatial Audio is more immersive, particularly when watching films or listening to certain tracks on Apple Music, as it auto-calibrates to the listener's head movement.
Additionally, these AirPods now come with a slightly sleeker, more rounded case that fits more comfortably in pockets. There's a lot to like about the AirPods 4.
However, as much as the AirPods 4 are packed with positives, there are still areas for improvement especially when it comes to fit, battery life, and pricing
While I appreciate the upgrade in noise-cancellation for the ANC model, I found the AirPods 4 not at all suitable for jogs or rigorous workouts.
Based on my experience, the AirPods 4 frequently slipped out of my ear. Now, this could just be an issue with my ears alone as everyone's ears are built differently. However, for those like me who prefer non-invasive audio devices, it was frustrating.
If you're looking for a non-invasive audio companion for your fitness regime, there are plenty of options out there in the market.
On the battery life front, the device still retains its predecessors' 30-hour lifespan with a charge and five hours of listening time.
Pricing-wise, the AirPods 4 are priced at RM599 for the regular models while the ANC model costs RM829.
All in all, the AirPods 4 are an impressive update that blends improved sound quality, connectivity, and thoughtful tweaks in design
For Apple users, they remain one of the best options, benefitting from Apple’s ecosystem integration and ease of use.
For those outside the Apple ecosystem or seeking advanced noise-cancelling, there are alternatives worth exploring.
Nevertheless, with each iteration, AirPods evolve more into a refined listening experience, and the AirPods 4 continue Apple’s tradition of enhancing audio quality with simplicity and style.
