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AirPods 4 vs Pro 2: Is ANC Worth $80 More?

April 23, 2025

By IMONABUDGET

Apple’s AirPods lineup presents a tough choice: the new AirPods 4 at just $119 or the feature-rich AirPods Pro 2 at $199. With an $80 price difference, is active noise cancellation worth the extra cash?

The AirPods 4 deliver Apple’s signature seamless connectivity with improved sound and USB-C charging in a lightweight design. Meanwhile, the AirPods Pro 2 offer premium features like ANC, transparency mode, and customizable fit – but at 67% higher cost.

We’ll break down exactly what you get (and lose) at each price point, comparing sound quality, comfort, features, and real-world value to help you make the smartest choice for your budget.

Table of Contents

1. AirPods 4: Shockingly Good for $119!

1. AirPods 4: Shockingly Good for $119!

At $119, the AirPods 4 represent Apple’s best value in wireless earbuds, packing impressive upgrades over previous generations while keeping costs down.

The new contoured design fits more securely than older models, and the USB-C charging future-proofs your purchase. Sound quality sees noticeable improvements with richer bass and clearer mids, though they still can’t match the Pro’s audio depth.

With 6 hours of battery life (30 hours with case) and an IPX4 sweat rating, they’re perfect for daily use. The lack of ANC is obvious in noisy environments, but at this price, the AirPods 4 deliver about 85% of the Pro experience for 60% of the cost.

2. AirPods Pro 2: Premium Features for $199

2. AirPods Pro 2: Premium Features for $199

The AirPods Pro 2 at $199 justify their higher price with industry-leading active noise cancellation that makes them ideal for travel, work, or noisy commutes.

Beyond ANC, you get:
– Transparency mode for hearing your surroundings
– Customizable silicone tips for perfect fit
– Dramatically better sound quality with spatial audio
– Touch controls for volume adjustment

The H2 chip enables faster connectivity and smarter features, while the 6-hour battery life with ANC on (30 hours total) matches most competitors. For $80 more than the AirPods 4, you’re paying primarily for ANC – which may be worth every penny if you need it.

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