AirPods 4 offer improved sound quality, a newer H2 chip, USB-C charging, and optional Active Noise Cancellation, making them a better choice for most users. AirPods 3 still provide slightly longer battery life but lack noise cancellation and newer features. Overall, AirPods 4 deliver better performance and value if you are buying new earbuds
Apple AirPods 3 vs Apple AirPods 4: Which One Should You Buy?
Apple’s wireless earbuds are among the most popular in the world, and the launch of Apple AirPods (3rd generation) and Apple AirPods 4 has given Apple users two solid options for everyday listening.
While both models share Apple’s signature open-ear design and seamless ecosystem integration, the newer AirPods 4 introduce several upgrades including better sound quality, improved durability, and new features like optional Active Noise Cancellation.
In this guide, we’ll compare AirPods 3 vs AirPods 4 to help you decide which earbuds are worth your money.
Design and Comfort
Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 use Apple’s open-fit design, meaning they do not have silicone ear tips like AirPods Pro. This design is comfortable for long listening sessions and allows some environmental awareness.
- However, AirPods 4 bring small improvements: • More refined ergonomic shape • Slightly shorter stem • Smaller charging case
AirPods 4 are also IP54 rated, meaning they have protection against dust and splashes, while AirPods 3 only offer IPX4 sweat and water resistance.
Winner: AirPods 4 (better durability and improved fit)
Sound Quality
Sound quality is where the biggest improvements appear.
- AirPods 4 deliver: • Deeper bass • Clearer mids and highs • Improved microphone performance • Apple’s newer H2 chip for better audio processing
Many reviews report that AirPods 4 provide fuller sound and richer bass compared to AirPods 3, making them better for music and podcasts. 
Both models support: • Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking • Adaptive EQ
However, the H2 chip in AirPods 4 improves audio optimization and device switching. 
Winner: AirPods 4
Active Noise Cancellation
- One major difference is noise control. • AirPods 3 → No Active Noise Cancellation • AirPods 4 → Available in two versions • Standard model • Model with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Even though the ANC version doesn’t isolate sound as strongly as AirPods Pro, it still reduces background noise during travel or commuting.
- AirPods 4 with ANC also include: • Transparency mode • Conversation awareness • Adaptive audio features. 
Winner: AirPods 4
Battery Life
Battery life between the two models is fairly similar.
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AirPods 3 • Up to 6 hours listening time • Up to 30 hours with charging case
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AirPods 4 • Around 5 hours listening time • Up to 30 hours with charging case
If you use the ANC version of AirPods 4, listening time drops to about 4 hours per charge with ANC enabled.
Winner: AirPods 3 (slightly longer single-charge playback)
Connectivity and Features
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Both earbuds integrate deeply with Apple devices, offering features like: • Automatic device switching • Hands-free Siri • Audio sharing • Spatial audio
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However, AirPods 4 add several upgrades: • H2 chip instead of H1 • USB-C charging • Find My tracking with built-in case speaker • Improved voice isolation for calls. 
These changes make AirPods 4 more future-proof.
Winner: AirPods 4