AirPods Mother’s Day Sale Alert 2025: Pro vs AirPods 4 – Which to Buy?
Apple’s wireless earbuds lineup continues to evolve with technological advancements, and the latest iterations—AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and AirPods 4 (with and without ANC)—represent the cutting edge of audio technology from the tech giant. With Mother’s Day approaching on May 11, these devices are currently available at significant discounts, making this an excellent time to understand the differences between models and make an informed purchase decision.
Table of Contents
AirPods Pro (2nd Generation): Premium Audio Experience
The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) remains Apple’s flagship wireless earbuds offering, currently available for $169 (down from the regular price of $249). This model represents the pinnacle of Apple’s audio engineering with several advanced features:
The AirPods Pro features an in-ear design with adjustable silicone tips that create a tight seal within the ear canal. This design choice provides two significant benefits: enhanced passive noise isolation and improved bass response. The in-ear design, combined with Apple’s advanced active noise cancellation technology powered by the H2 chip, delivers an immersive audio experience that effectively blocks out ambient noise.
One of the most praised features of the AirPods Pro is its Adaptive Transparency Mode, which intelligently filters environmental sounds while still allowing important audio cues to pass through. The newer Conversation Mode automatically enhances the voices of people you’re talking to, making in-person interactions more natural without requiring you to remove your earbuds.
The second-generation model also brings practical improvements, including the switch from Lightning to USB-C for charging compatibility, and the inclusion of a MagSafe charging case as standard equipment. This upgrade aligns with Apple’s broader transition to USB-C across its product lineup, reducing the need for multiple charging cables.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds
$249.00
$169.99
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03/09/2025 11:51 am GMT
AirPods 4: The Mainstream Option
Released in September 2024, the AirPods 4 comes in two variants: a standard model priced at $129 (currently on sale for $99.99) and a variant with active noise cancellation priced at $179 (now available for $148.99). These fourth-generation AirPods represent a significant upgrade over their predecessors with several notable improvements:
Both versions of the AirPods 4 feature Apple’s H2 chip, an upgrade from the H1 chip found in previous models. This new processor enables improved connectivity, better battery efficiency, and enhanced computational audio features. The earbuds also support Bluetooth 5.3, providing more stable connections and better energy efficiency compared to the Bluetooth 5.0 implementation in earlier models.
Apple has also improved the durability of the AirPods 4 with an IP54 rating that protects against both dust and water, an upgrade from the IPX4 rating of previous generations which only provided water resistance. Another practical improvement is the replacement of the skin detect sensor with a more reliable optical in-ear sensor, which more accurately detects when the earbuds are being worn.
Like the AirPods Pro, the AirPods 4 has transitioned from Lightning to USB-C for charging, bringing consistency across Apple’s accessory lineup.
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds
$129.00
$99.99
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Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, Personalized Spatial Audio, Sweat and Water Resistant, USB-C Charging Case, H2 Chip, Up to 30 Hours of Battery Life, Effortless Setup for iPhone
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04/29/2025 04:49 pm GMT
Key Differences: AirPods Pro vs AirPods 4 with ANC
While both the AirPods Pro and the AirPods 4 with ANC feature active noise cancellation, there are significant differences in their implementation and overall audio performance:
The most notable distinction is the fundamental design philosophy. The AirPods Pro uses an in-ear design with adjustable tips that create a physical seal within the ear canal. In contrast, the AirPods 4 follows Apple’s traditional open-ear design, where the earbuds rest against the ear opening without penetrating the canal. This design difference has profound implications for sound isolation and bass response.
The in-ear design of the AirPods Pro provides natural passive noise isolation before active noise cancellation is even engaged. When combined with ANC, the result is significantly more effective noise reduction compared to the AirPods 4 with ANC. The physical seal also enhances bass response and overall audio fidelity, as sound is directed into the ear canal rather than competing with ambient noise.
However, the open-ear design of the AirPods 4 offers advantages in comfort for users who find in-ear earbuds intrusive or uncomfortable for extended wear. The trade-off is reduced effectiveness of the active noise cancellation and less pronounced bass response.
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation
$179.00
$168.99
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Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, with Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Audio, Transparency Mode, Personalized Spatial Audio, USB-C Charging Case, Wireless Charging, H2 Chip
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04/29/2025 04:51 pm GMT
Which Model Should You Choose?
The decision between these models largely depends on your priorities and preferences:
For audiophiles and frequent travelers seeking the best noise cancellation and audio quality, the AirPods Pro at its current sale price of $169 represents an excellent value. The superior noise cancellation and sound quality justify the premium over the AirPods 4 with ANC.
If you prioritize comfort and find in-ear designs uncomfortable, the AirPods 4 with ANC at $148.99 offers a good compromise. You’ll still get active noise cancellation, albeit less effective than the Pro model, in a more comfortable form factor for some users.
For budget-conscious buyers who primarily use earbuds for casual listening and calls, the standard AirPods 4 at $99.99 represents the best value. You’ll still benefit from the H2 chip, improved durability, and better sensors without paying for ANC features you might not prioritize.
Comparison Table: AirPods Pro vs AirPods 4 Models
| Feature | AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) | AirPods 4 with ANC | AirPods 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Price | $249 | $179 | $129 |
| Current Sale Price | $169 (Save $80) | $148.99 (Save $30.01) | $99.99 (Save $29.01) |
| Design | In-ear with adjustable tips | Open-ear | Open-ear |
| Chip | H2 | H2 | H2 |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes (Most effective) | Yes (Moderate) | No |
| Transparency Mode | Adaptive with Conversation Mode | Standard | No |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IPX4 | IP54 | IP54 |
| Charging Case | MagSafe with USB-C | USB-C | USB-C |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.3 | 5.3 |
| Ear Detection | Optical in-ear sensor | Optical in-ear sensor | Optical in-ear sensor |
| Ideal For | Audiophiles, travelers, noisy environments | Those who find in-ear designs uncomfortable but want ANC | Casual listeners, budget-conscious buyers |
Conclusion
Apple’s current AirPods lineup offers options for various preferences and budgets. The AirPods Pro provides the premium experience with superior noise cancellation and sound quality, thanks to its in-ear design and advanced features. The AirPods 4 with ANC offers active noise cancellation in a more comfortable open-ear design for those who find in-ear earbuds intrusive. The standard AirPods 4 provides an excellent entry point with the latest core technology minus the noise cancellation features.
With the current Mother’s Day sales bringing these devices to some of their lowest prices yet, now is an excellent time to upgrade your audio experience or find the perfect gift for the tech-savvy mom in your life.
