Verdict: The best choice for iPhone owners who want top-tier noise cancelling in earbuds. The heart-rate sensor and Live Translation are extras that only pay off inside Apple’s ecosystem.
Good for
- iPhone users who want seamless pairing, spatial audio and hands-free Siri
- Commuters and travellers: Apple rates the noise cancelling at twice as strong as AirPods Pro 2
- Workouts: IP57 dust and water resistance, and heart-rate tracking during workouts with an iPhone
Skip it if
- You use an Android phone: most of the smart features need an iPhone
- You want hi-res Bluetooth codecs like LDAC
- You’re on a tight budget: the regular AirPods 4 cost much less
Key specs
| Battery (ANC on) | Up to 8 hours per charge (about 7 hours with heart-rate tracking); up to 24 hours with the case |
|---|---|
| Noise cancelling | Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency and Adaptive Audio |
| Health | Built-in heart-rate sensor for workouts |
| Durability | IP57 dust, sweat and water resistance |
| Charging | USB-C case |
| Released | September 2025 |
How it compares
- Apple AirPods 4: cheaper, open-fit design, weaker noise cancelling
- Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: the equivalent pick for Android and Pixel phones
Featured in: Best wireless earbuds under $150 (2026)
Specs come from the manufacturer’s published specifications (Apple tech specs · Apple announcement); iTech Level has not tested this product hands-on. How we choose products.
