So as the Apple AirPods 4 dropped, I couldn’t help but ask myself “Is it really worth the purchase?” That is until I finally grabbed a pair for myself to test out, and I’ve been using them for a month now. The AirPods 4 come in two distinct variants, one without Active Noise Cancellation (ANC,) priced at $129, and the one with an integrated ANC, priced at $179.
Once I got the AirPods 4 and opened the box, it felt like the air got heavy as I could feel the technological evolution I was holding in my hands. Then came the time when I finally put the earbuds to the test, and I was astonished by my findings. Here’s everything that I found.
A Better Design
The first thing that I noticed about the earbuds was the design. I observed that the AirPods 4 have a more ergonomic design, making it easier for the AirPods to fit in any ear. Once the AirPods fit perfectly in your ear, it feels like a dream come true for every audiophile out there.
The design allows little to no outside noise to make its way into your ears, which sometimes eliminates the need for you to turn on the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). I also found these AirPods to be more comfortable, even when I wore them for a longer time. They’re also pretty light in the ears, so it is safe to say that they won’t hurt your ears.
An Improved Case
Not only did Apple make improvements to the AirPods, but they also made significant changes to the case as well. The case is a lot more compact than it used to be, and I found this to be pretty convenient.
I was carrying the case around in my pocket and anybody could hardly tell! Since the AirPods 4 comes in two variants, if you get the slightly expensive ones, the case comes with a built-in speaker on the side. Once you use “Find My” to locate the AirPods, the case starts ringing.
Another thing that I absolutely loved about the AirPods 4 is the built-in MagSafe. So, now, not only can you charge your iPhone on the MagSafe charger, but you can charge your AirPods 4 as well! You can do the same with your Apple Watch charger as well.
Better Sound Quality
I’ve been using AirPods ever since the first generation came out, but the AirPods 4 are something like no other. I remember especially upgrading my internet connection to Spectrum Internet so that I could stream my music in the highest quality on Spotify since it offers the speed and bandwidth required for streaming.
Once I connected my AirPods 4 to my phone and synced all my music in the highest possible quality, I was blown away. I felt something different this time and that is when decided to read up on the technology used in the AirPods 4.
Apple has been using a new acoustic architecture for the best sound quality. There’s a low distortion driver and a high dynamic range amplifier, which allows you to literally feel your music down to every intricate detail. The personalized Spatial Audio tracks as you move your head so that you have an immersive music experience even as you are moving your head around!
The Infamous Head Nodding and Shaking Feature
Yes, I’ve seen all the memes, and I enjoyed them just as much as you did. But there’s one thing though, the feature does make life a lot more easier. For instance, if I am out on a walk or a run, and I don’t want to whip out my phone to decline a call, all I have to do is shake my head sideways and the call will decline!
Similarly, if I wish to take a call in the same scenario, all I have to do is nod my head and the call will attend. I do agree that I might look funny doing it, but as long as it is making my life easier by a little bit, I don’t mind it.
Highly Effective Transparency and Adaptive Audio Modes
Whenever I’m at work or am walking my dog, I always make sure I have my transparency mode on so that I am aware of my surroundings. This keeps me alert for any people passing by or any cars in my vicinity.
However, what I found to be the most interesting was the Adaptive Audio mode that automatically switches between ambient noise cancellation and proper noise cancellation depending on what my surroundings are like. What blew my mind is the Conversation Awareness feature that lowers my volume and turns off my ANC every time it senses me talking to someone! It amazes me how they come up with such technology!
An Extra Tip
I get it, being an audiophile is a feeling no one else can understand. But always remember to keep your music at a level that won’t hurt your hearing in the long run. If you listen to music at a high volume for a long time, chances are that you can impair your hearing, so be as safe as you can!
