Apple AirPods 4 Review: The Game-Changing Open-Back with Noise Cancelling!

Apple’s latest release, the AirPods 4, has made waves with its open-back design and impressive noise cancelling capabilities. For many users, including myself, this is a significant upgrade over previous models. Let’s dive into the details and see why the AirPods 4 are a must-have in 2025.

A Sneak Peek at the New AirPods 4

The AirPods 4 were released in late 2024, offering a fresh update to the popular AirPods 3. Despite the anticipated launch of the AirPods Pro 2, Apple surprised us with a new open-back model featuring noise cancelling, a feature previously exclusive to the AirPods Pro lineup. As of now, the AirPods 4 are only available through international purchases, with prices ranging from 199,000 KRW for the standard version to 249,000 KRW for the noise-cancelling model.

The Case – A Little Smaller, But More Functional
Right off the bat, the first thing you’ll notice is the significantly smaller charging case. It’s compact, but I found the smaller size to be a bit tricky to handle at first. The design, however, is sleek and practical, with a USB-C charging port and a built-in speaker for the “Find My” feature. Unfortunately, Apple has removed the MagSafe charging feature, which was a great addition to the AirPods 3.

Design: Subtle Yet Substantial Changes

When comparing the AirPods 4 with the previous generation, the design stands out with slight refinements. The size is notably reduced, and the sensor placement has been tweaked for better functionality. The AirPods 4 now also feature a more intuitive pairing process, where you simply open the case and tap the front to enter pairing mode – no more hidden pairing buttons. This new touch-based method was surprisingly responsive and made switching between devices much easier.

Comfort and Fit: A Perfect Balance

When it comes to comfort, the AirPods 4 deliver a noticeable upgrade over the AirPods 3. The in-ear fit is more snug, providing a better seal, which improves both sound quality and noise isolation. Even during activities like running, the AirPods 4 stayed securely in my ears. Although the AirPods 4 are open-back, the noise cancellation works impressively well, making them suitable for public transport or busy areas.

Noise Cancellation: Open-Back Meets Active Noise Control

One of the standout features of the AirPods 4 is the addition of noise cancellation in an open-back design. Many wondered how well this would perform, and I can confidently say the results are excellent for a device of this form. While it doesn’t match the more powerful noise cancellation of the AirPods Pro 2, the AirPods 4 handle everyday noise (like traffic, office chatter, or subway sounds) with ease. It’s especially good for those who prefer not to feel fully isolated from their environment but still want to block out distractions.

The open-back design, however, does mean that the AirPods 4 aren’t as effective at blocking high-frequency sounds compared to the Pro model. For example, in environments with high-pitched noises, like certain mechanical sounds, you might still hear some leakage. But in general, the noise cancellation is surprisingly good for an open-back design.

Sound Quality: A Well-Balanced Performance

Apple has upgraded the acoustics in the AirPods 4 with a new acoustic architecture, which significantly enhances sound quality. Bass notes are tighter, and the overall sound feels more detailed than the AirPods 3. The highs are clear, and the midrange frequencies are well-balanced, making it a fantastic option for a variety of music genres.

When compared to other competitors like the Galaxy Buds 3, the AirPods 4 outperform in clarity and sound definition. The bass is solid, but it’s not overpowering—perfect for people who enjoy more refined sound over thumping bass.

The Verdict: A True All-Rounder

In conclusion, the AirPods 4 are an outstanding choice for anyone looking for a combination of comfort, performance, and convenience in a truly portable package. The open-back design, combined with effective noise cancellation, makes these ideal for daily use—whether you’re commuting, working out, or simply relaxing. While the AirPods Pro 2 may still be the best choice for audiophiles or those seeking the ultimate noise isolation, the AirPods 4 are a brilliant alternative for those who want a more open, natural sound with a decent level of noise cancellation.

Would I recommend the AirPods 4? Absolutely, especially if you prefer an open-back design and need a lightweight, versatile earbud that works well in almost every situation.

If you’re planning to get the AirPods 4 once they’re released in South Korea, I hope this review has helped clear up some of your doubts and given you a better idea of what to expect!