Apple AirPods 4 with ANC: A Comprehensive Review and Deal Breakdown

Apple’s AirPods 4, released in 2022, mark a significant step forward in the company’s wireless earbud lineup, particularly with the inclusion of active noise cancellation (ANC). While the AirPods Pro (2019) were the first Apple earbuds to feature ANC, the AirPods 4 brought this technology to a more affordable, compact design. Currently, MediaMarkt is offering a compelling deal on the AirPods 4 with ANC, making it an attractive option for iOS users and tech enthusiasts alike.

Key Features of the AirPods 4 with ANC

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

The AirPods 4’s ANC is a standout feature, effectively reducing ambient noise to enhance focus and immersion. According to Apple, the technology uses outward-facing microphones to detect external sounds and generate counter-waves to cancel them out. While not as advanced as the ANC in the AirPods Pro, the AirPods 4’s implementation is still impressive for their form factor.

Sound Quality and Design

The AirPods 4 deliver a balanced audio experience with clear highs, mids, and lows. Their open-ear design prioritizes comfort, making them ideal for extended listening sessions. The earbuds are also more compact than their predecessors, offering a sleeker profile without compromising on sound quality.

Battery Life

Apple claims up to 4.5 hours of playback with ANC enabled and up to 20 hours with the charging case. This aligns with independent reviews, which note that the battery life is sufficient for daily use but falls short of some competitors in the wireless earbud market.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Effective ANC for their price point
• Improved sound quality and comfort over previous models
• Seamless integration with Apple devices
• Compact design and lightweight build

Cons

• Less advanced ANC compared to AirPods Pro
• Missing features for Android users (e.g., customizable ANC settings)
• Shorter battery life than some competing models

Why the MediaMarkt Deal is Worth Noticing

Apple rarely discounts its products, so the current MediaMarkt offer—reducing the AirPods 4 with ANC to €159 (with a myMediaMarkt account discount)—is a rare opportunity. While the base price of €179 is already competitive, the additional 10% discount makes it an even more attractive proposition for iOS users. However, the deal is likely time-sensitive, as such promotions are typically short-lived.

Comparison with Competitors

The AirPods 4 with ANC compete with models like the Sony WF-1000XM5 and the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. While the AirPods 4 excel in ecosystem integration and ease of use, they lag behind in ANC sophistication and battery life. For Android users, the Buds 2 Pro or other premium models may offer a more versatile experience.

Final Verdict: Is the Deal Worth It?

The AirPods 4 with ANC are a solid choice for Apple users seeking a balance of performance, comfort, and design. The MediaMarkt deal provides a significant discount, making them an appealing option for those who have been considering an upgrade. However, potential buyers should weigh the limitations, such as the lack of advanced ANC and Android compatibility, against their specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the AirPods 4 with ANC compatible with Android devices?

A: Yes, but with limited functionality. Features like seamless device switching and spatial audio are optimized for iOS, while Android users may miss out on some customization options.

Q: How does the ANC on the AirPods 4 compare to the AirPods Pro?

A: The AirPods Pro offer more advanced ANC with adaptive transparency mode and a wider range of noise-canceling settings. The AirPods 4’s ANC is effective but less customizable.

Q: What is the battery life of the AirPods 4 with ANC?

A: Up to 4.5 hours of playback with ANC enabled, and up to 20 hours with the charging case. Actual performance may vary based on usage and settings.

For more details on the AirPods 4, visit Apple’s official page. For independent reviews, check out HIFI.DE or