AirPods Pro 2 vs AirPods 4
In-ear with noise cancelling or open-fit comfort? How the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 differ, and which suits you.
Adsokane team · Updated 1 November 2026
Both use Apple’s H2 chip and pair instantly with an iPhone. The big difference is the fit: AirPods Pro 2 seal your ear with silicone tips and cancel noise, while the standard AirPods 4 sit in the ear without tips, which many people find more comfortable.
Specs side by side
| AirPods Pro | AirPods 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | In-ear with silicone tips (4 sizes) | Open fit, no tips |
| Active noise cancelling | Yes, with Transparency and Adaptive Audio | No (a separate ANC model exists) |
| Chip | Apple H2 | Apple H2 |
| Listening time (Apple's figure) | Up to 6 hours with ANC on | Up to 5 hours |
| Case | USB-C, speaker for Find My, lanyard loop | USB-C, smaller case |
| Water and sweat resistance | IP54 earbuds and case | IP54 earbuds |
Noise cancelling
On a metro, bus or flight, the AirPods Pro 2 make a big difference: they cut out engine and traffic noise so you can listen at a lower volume. The standard AirPods 4 let outside sound in, which is fine at home or in the office and keeps you aware of your surroundings.
Comfort
Some people dislike the pressure of in-ear tips. If that is you, the open-fit AirPods 4 are easier to wear for hours. If standard AirPods have always fallen out of your ears, the Pro 2’s tips give a more secure fit.
The verdict
Buy the AirPods Pro if
You commute or travel, want noise cancelling, or regular AirPods don’t stay in your ears.
Compare store pricesBuy the AirPods 4 if
You find in-ear tips uncomfortable, mainly listen at home or work, and want the lighter, simpler option.
Compare store prices