If you’re looking to upgrade your second or third generation AirPods, you’re in luck. During the iPhone 16 event, where Apple unveiled new Apple Watches and iPhones, the company also announced two new fourth generation AirPods on September 9th.

Also: Everything Apple just announced at its “Glowtime” event

Both fourth-generation AirPods feature Apple’s H2 audio chip, which is also found in the AirPods Pro 2. This audio chip provides improved audio quality, noise cancellation, audio processing, microphone quality, and better integration with Siri.

Neither AirPods 4 option features the silicone ear tips found on the Pro 2, but if you prefer the open fit of the second or third generation AirPods, you’ll enjoy the fit of the AirPods 4. Additionally, both AirPods 4 models feature pressure sensors on the ear tip stem, meaning a series of short and long presses on the stem will complete audio commands like play, pause, skip tracks, and more.

Also: The 5 best iPhone 16 Pro features that enthusiasts will be interested in

These AirPods can be divided into entry-level and mid-range categories, with the mid-range AirPods 4 offering more premium features than the entry-level AirPods 4. Of course, the entry-level AirPods are cheaper. There are other differences between the two AirPods that you should consider before you pre-order or buy the earbuds, so let’s go through them so you can make the most informed decision possible.

You should buy the AirPods 4 (entry-level model) if…

1. You love your AirPods (2nd generation) but want some upgrades

If you like the simplicity of the second-generation AirPods but feel it’s time for an upgrade, the entry-level AirPods 4 are for you. Like the second-generation AirPods, the entry-level AirPods 4 don’t have active noise cancellation or Transparency mode. However, they do feature spatial audio for the first time, making music, movie watching, and mobile gaming even more immersive.

As for upgrades, the AirPods 4 charging case offers six hours more battery life than the second-generation AirPods. Additionally, the AirPods 4 charging case supports USB-C charging and is IP54 dust and water resistant.

2. You want the cheapest option

The entry-level AirPods are cheaper than the mid-range AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2. The second and third generation AirPods are still available from Apple, but do not have the same improved features as the new AirPods 4.

You should buy the AirPods 4 (mid-range) if…

1. The AirPods Pro 2 have too many features you’ll never use

The AirPods Pro 2 are Apple’s most advanced earbuds, offering a range of audio features and hearing health options. These features include Siri interactions and voice isolation, a clinically validated hearing test, and a hearing aid mode. If these features don’t excite you, and you don’t want to pay for software you’ll never use, the mid-range AirPods 4 are the best option for you.

Plus, your AirPods Pro 2 will soon be able to be used as over-the-counter hearing aids. Here’s how

The AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation feature noise cancellation and transparency modes, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, and IP54 water and dust resistance. The charging case is USB-C and wireless charging compatible. However, the mid-range AirPods 4 have an hour less continuous playback time than the AirPods 3.

2. You wish the AirPods (3rd generation) had more useful features

If you’re upgrading from the AirPods 3, you’ll be happy to know that the mid-range AirPods 4 have more audio features and some hardware upgrades. The AirPods 3 don’t have noise cancellation or call detection, a feature that turns down your music when the earbuds’ microphones detect you on a call. Additionally, the mid-range AirPods 4’s case is more water and dust resistant and compatible with wireless charging.

Also: The new AirPods Max have the charging port we’ve been waiting for – and new colors too

You can think of the noise-canceling AirPods 4 as the “Goldilocks” AirPods, as they give users the best of both worlds. You get improved audio capabilities not found on the second or third generation AirPods, without offering too many of the advanced features of the AirPods Pro 2.

Alternatives to consider

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