The AirPods 4 feature a slightly revised form factor that makes for a more secure fit in your ears, improved sound quality thanks to revised acoustic architecture, and a new charging case with a USB-C port. The AirPods 4 run for up to five hours on a full charge, and the charging case brings that figure to 30 hours.

With Apple's H2 chip, iPhones running on iOS 18 can take advantage of numerous high-end features, including Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness modes.

The AirPods 4 without active noise cancellation are normally $50 less than the ANC model. At the moment, that gap is only $20, with the ANC model going for $139 and the base model without ANC at $119 (was $129).

ANC isn't the only major advantage between the two. The pricier model also benefits from an upgraded charging case with a built-in speaker and wireless Qi charging support.

It's worth noting that Apple's AirPods Pro 2 are on sale for $170 (was $249) right now. Amazon is temporarily out of stock of this deal but is still taking orders.

The in-ear design of the AirPods Pro 2 offers better noice cancellation than the open-ear design of the AirPods 4. Apple says the ANC is up to two times better on the Pro 2.

For many, the main consideration when deciding between the two models is whether you prefer earbuds with silicone tips that go inside your ear canals, or the open-ear design of all other AirPods.

The AirPods Pro 2 also have built-in hearing protection and can be used as hearing aids.