Apple’s AirPods lineup is stronger than ever following the launch of AirPods 4, which now include many features formerly exclusive to AirPods Pro 2. But for me personally, there are still three key Pro-exclusive features that make the more expensive AirPods worth the upgrade.
Up to 2x better noise cancellation
This is a big one for me. While the high-end AirPods 4 model does include ANC (Active Noise Cancellation), it’s roughly half as powerful as what’s found in AirPods Pro 2.
I use my AirPods Pro 2 all throughout the work day, and ANC is turned on nearly that whole time.
Improved ANC was one of the big features that convinced me to upgrade from the original AirPods Pro to AirPods Pro 2. And I’m looking forward to an even more powerful noise cancelling experience with AirPods Pro 3.
All that to say, I wouldn’t want to go back to a less capable ANC feature with AirPods 4.
Hearing health features
iOS 18.1 gave AirPods Pro 2 three powerful new features focused on hearing health:
- Hearing Test
- Hearing Aid
- Hearing Protection
Per my test results, I have little to no hearing loss at this point. Otherwise Hearing Aid would be an especially key feature for me.
Regardless, having the always-active Hearing Protection feature could help prevent such loss from occurring in the future. And I never would have known the state of my hearing in the first place if it wasn’t for Apple’s test.
However much you need or don’t need AirPods Pro 2’s hearing health features, they undoubtedly offer a huge advantage over AirPods 4 for lots of users.
Better battery life
AirPods Pro 2 offer up to 6 hours of listening per charge. AirPods 4, meanwhile, only provide up to 5.
A 20% battery boost comes in especially handy when you use AirPods as much as I do. I almost never hear the low-battery indicator with my AirPods Pro 2, but I suspect it would be a more regular issue with less battery to work with.
AirPods Pro 2 feature wrap-up
Comparing AirPods Pro 2’s $249 retail price to the high-end AirPods 4’s $179, I’m very happy to pay that extra $80 to get the Pro-exclusive features.
If you’re able to get AirPods Pro 2 for as low as $189 (the current price on Amazon), Apple’s Pro model becomes even more of a no-brainer.
Which AirPods model do you prefer and why? Let us know in the comments.
Best AirPods Pro accessories
- Memory foam AirPods Pro eartips for a more comfortable fit
- AirFly SE for connecting AirPods to in-flight headphone jacks
- Belemay leather case for AirPods Pro
- Magnetic strap neckband for preventing lost AirPods
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