Apple AirPods 4 Review: H2 Chip, Spatial Audio & USB-C
The Apple AirPods 4 bring Apple's H2 chip, Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Voice Isolation, a redesigned open-ear fit and USB-C charging into a compact everyday wireless-earbud package.
Apple AirPods 4
Wireless earbuds with H2 chip, Personalised Spatial Audio, Voice Isolation and USB-C charging case.
Apple AirPods 4: Quick Specifications
Apple AirPods 4 Overview
AirPods 4 are Apple's fourth-generation standard AirPods, redesigned around an open-ear fit. The model uses Apple's H2 headphone chip and combines it with a custom high-excursion driver, high dynamic range amplifier, Adaptive EQ and computational audio features.
One of the major highlights is Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. Apple also includes Voice Isolation for clearer calls, Siri Interactions and a force sensor built into the stem for physical controls.
Design & Comfort
Apple redesigned the AirPods 4 shape with a refined contour and shorter stem. The open-ear approach is intended to provide a comfortable fit while allowing users to remain more aware of their surroundings.
Each AirPod weighs only 4.3 grams. The USB-C charging case weighs 32.3 grams, making the complete setup relatively easy to carry.
Dimensions
| Component | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Each AirPod | 30.2 × 18.3 × 18.1 mm | 4.3g |
| USB-C Charging Case | 46.2 × 50.1 × 21.2 mm | 32.3g |
Sound Quality & Audio Features
AirPods 4 use a custom high-excursion Apple driver and a custom high-dynamic-range amplifier. Adaptive EQ automatically adjusts the sound based on the fit and listening conditions.
Personalised Spatial Audio
Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking can create a more immersive presentation for supported music, movies, TV shows and games. A compatible Apple device and supported content are required for the full experience.
Voice Isolation
Voice Isolation uses the H2 chip, microphones and computational audio to improve voice clarity during calls, particularly when there is significant background noise.
Important: No ANC on This Model
The Amazon listing linked here corresponds to the standard AirPods 4. Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Audio and Transparency Mode belong to the separately sold AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation.
H2 Chip & Smart Features
Apple's H2 headphone chip is central to the AirPods 4 experience. It enables features including Voice Isolation, Personalised Spatial Audio, Siri Interactions and low-latency wireless audio features.
Siri Interactions
With compatible Apple software, users can respond to certain Siri announcements by nodding their head yes or gently shaking their head no.
Force Sensor Controls
The stem includes a force sensor. Pressing the stem can control media playback and calls, while holding it can activate Siri.
Call Quality
AirPods 4 use dual beamforming microphones and an inward-facing microphone. Voice Isolation is designed to make the user's voice easier to hear during calls in noisy environments.
This makes the AirPods 4 particularly appealing for people who frequently switch between music, calls, FaceTime and everyday communication.
Battery Life & Charging
Apple rates AirPods 4 for up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge. With the USB-C charging case, total listening time reaches up to 30 hours.
Battery performance varies according to usage, settings, environment and other factors.
IP54 Dust, Sweat & Water Resistance
AirPods 4 are rated IP54 for dust, sweat and water resistance. Apple specifies this rating for non-water sports and exercise.
Connectivity & Compatibility
AirPods 4 use Bluetooth 5.3 wireless technology. They are designed to integrate particularly well with Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, Apple TV and Apple Vision Pro.
They can also work as Bluetooth headphones with non-Apple devices, but Apple notes that functionality may be limited outside its ecosystem.
Gaming Performance
Apple states that AirPods 4 are capable of low wireless audio latency and improved voice quality for gaming. Compatible Apple devices and software are required for some advanced gaming features.
The open-ear design can also be useful for gamers who want to remain aware of their surroundings.
Feature Assessment
Noise isolation is intentionally assessed lower here because this standard AirPods 4 model does not have Active Noise Cancellation.
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- Apple H2 headphone chip
- Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
- Voice Isolation for clearer calls
- Lightweight 4.3g earbuds
- USB-C charging case
- Up to 30 hours total listening time
- Bluetooth 5.3
- IP54 dust, sweat and water resistance
- Excellent Apple ecosystem integration
- Comfortable open-ear design for many users
✕ Cons
- No Active Noise Cancellation on this model
- No Transparency Mode or Adaptive Audio
- Some advanced features require Apple devices
- USB-C charging cable is sold separately
- Open-ear fit provides less passive isolation than sealed in-ear earbuds
Apple AirPods 4 Full Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Apple AirPods 4 |
| Model | MXP63HN/A |
| ASIN | B0DGJLL7V1 |
| Chip | Apple H2 |
| Driver | Custom high-excursion Apple driver |
| Amplifier | Custom high dynamic range amplifier |
| Audio | Adaptive EQ, Personalised Spatial Audio, dynamic head tracking |
| Call Technology | Voice Isolation, dual beamforming microphones |
| Controls | Force sensor and Siri |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IP54 |
| Earbud Weight | 4.3g each |
| Case Weight | 32.3g |
| Earbud Battery | Up to 5 hours listening |
| Total Battery | Up to 30 hours with charging case |
| Fast Charging | 5 minutes provides around 1 hour of listening |
| Charging Case | USB-C |
| ANC | Not included on standard AirPods 4 |
| Compatibility | Apple devices and Bluetooth-compatible non-Apple devices |
| In the Box | AirPods 4, USB-C charging case, documentation |
Who Should Buy Apple AirPods 4?
iPhone Users
A strong choice if you already use an iPhone and want seamless pairing and access to Apple's ecosystem features.
Calls & Meetings
Voice Isolation and the beamforming microphone system make them suitable for frequent calls and everyday communication.
Everyday Listening
The lightweight open-ear design is aimed at comfortable everyday listening while keeping you aware of your surroundings.
Who Should Consider Something Else?
If your main priority is strong noise blocking on airplanes, trains, busy offices or crowded streets, consider the AirPods 4 with ANC or another ANC-focused earbud instead.
Final Verdict
The Apple AirPods 4 are a polished choice for users who want lightweight open-ear earbuds with strong Apple ecosystem integration. The H2 chip, Personalised Spatial Audio, Voice Isolation, Siri Interactions and USB-C charging make them substantially more feature-rich than a basic pair of Bluetooth earbuds.
Their biggest limitation is also clear: this is the standard AirPods 4, so it does not have Active Noise Cancellation. For users who prefer an open-ear fit and mainly use Apple devices, that trade-off can make a lot of sense. For commuters who need serious external-noise reduction, the ANC version is the more appropriate option.
Apple AirPods 4 FAQ
Does Apple AirPods 4 have ANC?
No. This ASIN is the standard AirPods 4. Apple sells a separate AirPods 4 model with Active Noise Cancellation.
How long does AirPods 4 battery last?
Apple rates the earbuds for up to 5 hours of listening on one charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case.
Does AirPods 4 use USB-C?
Yes. The charging case uses a USB-C connector.
Is AirPods 4 water resistant?
AirPods 4 have an IP54 rating for dust, sweat and water resistance. They are not designed for swimming or underwater use.
Does AirPods 4 work with Android phones?
Yes. AirPods can be used as Bluetooth headphones with non-Apple devices, although Apple notes that functionality may be limited.
Does AirPods 4 support Spatial Audio?
Yes. AirPods 4 support Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking on compatible Apple hardware and software.
Is the AirPods 4 case wireless charging compatible?
The standard AirPods 4 charging case listed here uses USB-C. Wireless charging is a feature of the separately sold AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation charging case.
Interested in Apple AirPods 4?
Check the current Amazon listing, availability and latest price before purchasing.
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Source & Specification Note
Product identification is based on Amazon ASIN B0DGJLL7V1 / model MXP63HN/A. Core technical specifications are cross-checked against Apple's official AirPods 4 technical specifications and Apple product information.
Battery-life figures are Apple's stated maximums under specified test conditions and can vary with usage, settings and environment.