Airpods 4 ANC vs Airpods Pro 3 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

AirPods Pro 3 & AirPods 4 ANC share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the AirPods Pro 3 rather than the AirPods 4 ANC.

Why Do I Recommend The AirPods Pro 3?

  • The AirPods Pro 3 includes adaptive active noise cancellation for dynamically adjusting noise reduction based on real-time environmental changes, whereas the AirPods 4 ANC uses standard active noise cancellation.
  • AirPods Pro 3 supports personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking for a more precise and customized 3D soundstage tailored to the user’s ear shape, while the AirPods 4 ANC supports standard spatial audio.
  • It comes with swipe-based volume controls on the stem for direct and precise volume adjustments without using a connected device, whereas the AirPods 4 ANC uses press-only controls.
  • The AirPods Pro 3 features adaptive transparency mode for automatically reducing sudden loud environmental sounds while maintaining situational awareness, whereas the AirPods 4 ANC uses standard transparency mode.
  • AirPods Pro 3 includes a UWB chip with Precision Finding for accurate directional tracking and distance guidance when locating the case, while the AirPods 4 ANC uses standard Find My tracking.
  • It supports MagSafe, Qi, and Apple Watch charging for multiple wireless charging options across different accessories, while the AirPods 4 ANC supports Qi charging only.
  • The AirPods Pro 3 features silicone ear tips with a sealed in-ear design for stronger passive noise isolation and more consistent bass response, while the AirPods 4 ANC uses an open-fit design without ear tips.
  • AirPods Pro 3 provides up to 8 hours of listening time with active noise cancellation for longer uninterrupted playback sessions, while the AirPods 4 ANC provides around 4 hours with active noise cancellation.

Maybe the AirPods 4 ANC can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the AirPods Pro 3. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureAirPods Pro 3AirPods 4 ANC
ANC TypeAdaptive ANCStandard ANC
Transparency ModeAdaptive TransparencyTransparency
Hearing SensorHeart rate sensorNot included
Ear Tip TypeSiliconeOpen-fit
Acoustic DesignSealed in-earSemi-open
Spatial AudioPersonalized + head trackingStandard Spatial Audio
Driver TypeHigh-excursion custom driverStandard Apple driver
Vent SystemPressure-equalizing ventsBasic vents
Control TypeSwipe + pressPress only
ANC Reduction LevelUp to ~90% ambient reductionLower ANC vs Pro class
Listening Time (ANC ON)Up to 8 hoursUp to 4 hours
Listening Time (ANC OFF)Up to 10 hoursUp to 5 hours
Total Battery (ANC ON)Up to 24 hoursUp to 20 hours
Fast Charge5 min = ~1.5 hours5 min = ~1 hour
Wireless ChargingMagSafe + Qi + Apple WatchQi only
Precision FindingUWB chipNot included
Water/Dust RatingIP57IP54
PriceCheck AirPods Pro 3 PriceCheck AirPods 4 ANC Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Active Noise Cancellation: Both earbuds include active noise cancellation technology that reduces surrounding environmental noise during playback. This helps maintain consistent audio clarity in busy environments such as commuting or crowded spaces.
  • Transparency Mode: Both models feature a transparency mode that allows outside sound to pass through the microphones. This enables users to stay aware of surroundings without removing the earbuds.
  • Spatial Audio: Both support spatial audio processing that creates a multi-directional sound experience. This improves immersion when watching videos or listening to compatible content.
  • Head Tracking: Each model includes dynamic head tracking that adjusts audio positioning based on head movement. This maintains consistent directional sound for a more realistic listening experience.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Both use Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connectivity with compatible devices. This ensures stable connections, reduced latency, and efficient power usage.
  • Chip Platform: Both earbuds rely on Apple’s H2-based processing architecture for audio handling and system efficiency. This enables features like ANC, spatial audio, and adaptive EQ to function smoothly.
  • Microphone System: Each model uses dual beamforming microphones to capture voice input clearly. This improves call quality and voice command accuracy.
  • Inward-facing Microphone: Both include inward-facing microphones that monitor audio inside the ear. This allows real-time adjustments to sound output for consistent listening.
  • Force Sensor Controls: Both earbuds use force sensors on the stems for playback and call control. This provides tactile and precise input compared to touch-only systems.
  • Voice Assistant Support: Both support hands-free Siri activation using voice commands. This allows users to control music, calls, and settings without physical interaction.
  • Sweat & Water Resistance: Both are rated IP54, providing resistance to sweat, light rain, and dust. This makes them suitable for workouts and outdoor use.
  • Charging Port: Both cases use USB-C for wired charging. This standardization improves compatibility with modern charging accessories.
  • Wireless Charging: Each model supports Qi wireless charging. This allows convenient cable-free charging on compatible pads.
  • Fast Charging: Both include fast charging capability where a short charging session provides additional listening time. This is useful for quick top-ups during busy schedules.
  • Automatic Device Switching: Both support seamless switching between Apple devices linked to the same account. This improves workflow when using multiple devices like iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
  • Audio Sharing: Both allow audio sharing with another pair of AirPods or Beats headphones. This enables two users to listen to the same content simultaneously.
  • Find My Integration: Both integrate with the Find My network for locating lost devices. This adds an extra layer of convenience and security.
  • Dolby Atmos Support: Both support Dolby Atmos playback for compatible content. This enhances audio depth and spatial realism.
  • Adaptive EQ: Both include adaptive EQ that automatically tunes sound based on ear shape and fit. This ensures consistent audio quality across users.
  • Case Battery Extension: Both include charging cases that extend total listening time beyond the earbuds alone. This allows longer usage without frequent recharging.

Common Features

FeatureAirPods Pro 3AirPods 4 ANC
Active Noise CancellationYesYes
Transparency ModeYesYes
Spatial AudioYesYes
Head TrackingYesYes
Bluetooth ConnectivityBluetooth 5.3Bluetooth 5.3
Chip PlatformApple H2-based processingApple H2-based processing
Microphone SystemDual beamforming microphonesDual beamforming microphones
Inward-facing MicrophoneYesYes
Force Sensor ControlsYesYes
Voice Assistant SupportSiri voice activationSiri voice activation
Sweat & Water ResistanceIP54 ratingIP54 rating
Charging PortUSB-CUSB-C
Wireless ChargingQi wireless chargingQi wireless charging
Fast Charging5 min quick charge support5 min quick charge support
Automatic Device SwitchingYesYes
Audio SharingYesYes
Find My IntegrationYesYes
Dolby Atmos SupportYesYes
Adaptive EQYesYes
Case Battery ExtensionYesYes
Price Check AirPods Pro 3 Price
Check AirPods 4 ANC Price

FAQ

Do both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 4 ANC have active noise cancellation?
Both models include active noise cancellation, but AirPods Pro 3 uses adaptive ANC that adjusts in real time, whereas AirPods 4 ANC uses a more standard noise cancellation system.

Which model is more comfortable for long listening sessions?
AirPods 4 ANC is typically more comfortable for extended use due to its open-fit design, while AirPods Pro 3 may feel more secure but can create pressure from the in-ear seal.

Is there a difference in sound quality between the two models?
AirPods Pro 3 delivers deeper bass and more consistent sound due to its sealed design and advanced driver system, while AirPods 4 ANC provides a more open and natural sound profile.

Do both models support spatial audio?
Yes, both support spatial audio with head tracking, but AirPods Pro 3 includes personalized spatial audio for a more customized listening experience.

How does battery life compare between AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 4 ANC?
AirPods Pro 3 provides longer listening time per charge and higher total battery life with the case, while AirPods 4 ANC has shorter playback duration.

Do both models support wireless charging?
Yes, both support Qi wireless charging, but AirPods Pro 3 also supports MagSafe and Apple Watch charging, giving it more charging flexibility.

Are both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 4 ANC water resistant?
Both models have sweat and water resistance, but AirPods Pro 3 typically includes higher dust protection along with water resistance.

Which model has better noise isolation?
AirPods Pro 3 has stronger passive and active noise isolation due to its sealed ear tip design, while AirPods 4 ANC allows more ambient sound due to its open structure.

Do both models work equally well with iPhone and other Apple devices?
Yes, both integrate seamlessly with Apple devices, including features like automatic switching, audio sharing, and Siri voice control.

Is there a difference in controls between the two models?
AirPods Pro 3 includes swipe gestures for volume control along with press controls, while AirPods 4 ANC relies only on press-based controls.

Do both models include transparency mode?
Yes, both include transparency mode, but AirPods Pro 3 has adaptive transparency that can automatically reduce loud environmental noise.

Which model is better for workouts or active use?
AirPods Pro 3 provides a more secure fit due to silicone tips, while AirPods 4 ANC may feel lighter but can be less stable during intense movement.

Do both AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 4 ANC support Find My tracking?
Yes, both support Find My tracking, but AirPods Pro 3 includes precision finding with a UWB chip for more accurate location tracking.

Are there any health or hearing-related features in these models?
AirPods Pro 3 includes advanced hearing-related features such as adaptive audio adjustments and hearing-focused tools, while AirPods 4 ANC does not include these features.