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HomeTechnologyAirPods 4 vs AirPods Pro 3: Which one should you buy?

AirPods 4 vs AirPods Pro 3: Which one should you buy?

Apple’s AirPods lineup just got a lot more confusing — and a lot more competitive. With the new AirPods 4 offering active noise cancellation (ANC) for just Rs 17,900, they now sit relatively close to the Rs 25,900 AirPods Pro 3. But how different are they really, and which one should you buy? Here’s a quick six-point comparison to help you decide.

October 12, 2025 / 17:58 IST
Design and Fit AirPods 4 retain the classic open-ear design, ideal for those who dislike silicone tips. The AirPods Pro 3, meanwhile, use an in-ear fit that seals better and blocks out more ambient noise. Comfort preference plays a big role here.
1/6
Design and Fit
AirPods 4 retain the classic open-ear design, ideal for those who dislike silicone tips. The AirPods Pro 3, meanwhile, use an in-ear fit that seals better and blocks out more ambient noise. Comfort preference plays a big role here.
Noise Cancellation Both now feature ANC and Transparency Mode, but the AirPods Pro 3 remain leagues ahead — delivering nearly 4x better noise reduction thanks to their in-ear seal and upgraded H2 chip tuning.
2/6
Noise Cancellation
Both now feature ANC and Transparency Mode, but the AirPods Pro 3 remain leagues ahead — delivering nearly 4x better noise reduction thanks to their in-ear seal and upgraded H2 chip tuning.
Sound Quality The Pro 3 earbuds sound richer and more detailed, especially in bass-heavy tracks. The AirPods 4 are more balanced and open but lack the same depth.
3/6
Sound Quality
The Pro 3 earbuds sound richer and more detailed, especially in bass-heavy tracks. The AirPods 4 are more balanced and open but lack the same depth.
Battery Life The AirPods Pro 3 offer slightly better earbud endurance and a case with MagSafe and U2 Precision Finding. AirPods 4 still deliver solid playback times with USB-C charging and Find My support.
4/6
Battery Life
The AirPods Pro 3 offer slightly better earbud endurance and a case with MagSafe and U2 Precision Finding. AirPods 4 still deliver solid playback times with USB-C charging and Find My support.
Extra Features Only the Pro 3s come with heart rate monitoring, conversation boost, and hearing protection tools — handy for fitness users and those skipping the Apple Watch.
5/6
Extra Features
Only the Pro 3s come with heart rate monitoring, conversation boost, and hearing protection tools — handy for fitness users and those skipping the Apple Watch.
Verdict The AirPods 4 make the most sense for everyday users who want comfort, ANC, and Apple ecosystem perks at a lower cost. But for audiophiles, travellers, or gym-goers, the Pro 3 justify the extra Rs. 5,000 for their superior noise cancellation, richer sound, and health tracking.
6/6
Verdict
The AirPods 4 make the most sense for everyday users who want comfort, ANC, and Apple ecosystem perks at a lower cost. But for audiophiles, travellers, or gym-goers, the Pro 3 justify the extra Rs. 8,000 for their superior noise cancellation, richer sound, and health tracking.
MC Tech Desk Read the latest and trending tech news—stay updated on AI, gadgets, cybersecurity, software updates, smartphones, blockchain, space tech, and the future of innovation.
first published: Oct 12, 2025 05:58 pm

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