What is the difference between AirPods 3 and AirPods 4?

The AirPods 4 feature a redesigned open-ear fit with improved comfort, while the AirPods 3 use the older contoured design; the AirPods 4 also add USB-C charging and the H2 chip, which the AirPods 3 lack.

Which is better, AirPods 3 or AirPods 4?

The AirPods 4 are better because they deliver the H2 chip's enhanced audio processing, better call quality, and a more secure fit, while the AirPods 3 rely on the older H1 chip with less refined sound and weaker noise reduction during calls.

Do AirPods 4 cost more than AirPods 3?

Yes, AirPods 4 typically cost $129 compared to the AirPods 3's $169 launch price, but the AirPods 3 often sell for around $119 at retailers, making the newer AirPods 4 only slightly more expensive for significant upgrades.

Are AirPods 4 safe to wear for long periods?

Yes, AirPods 4 are safe for extended wear because they use an open-ear design that reduces ear canal pressure and include the same volume limits as AirPods 3, but you should take breaks every 90 minutes to prevent listening fatigue.

Are AirPods 4 compatible with older iPhone models?

Yes, AirPods 4 work with any iPhone that runs iOS 18 or later, which includes iPhone XS and newer models, while AirPods 3 require only iOS 15.1, so older phones like the iPhone 8 won't support AirPods 4.

What is the biggest mistake people make when choosing between AirPods 3 and 4?

The biggest mistake is assuming both have the same features because AirPods 4 add USB-C charging and the H2 chip, while AirPods 3 use Lightning and lack the improved spatial audio with dynamic head tracking found in the newer model.

Can I use AirPods 3 cases with AirPods 4?

No, AirPods 3 cases do not fit AirPods 4 because the AirPods 4 charging case is slightly shorter and wider, and the speaker grille placement differs, so you must buy a dedicated AirPods 4 case for proper protection and charging access.

Which AirPods should I buy for daily commuting and workouts?

For daily commuting and workouts, choose AirPods 4 because they offer better sweat and water resistance with an IP54 rating versus the IPX4 on AirPods 3, plus the improved H2 chip provides clearer calls in noisy streets and gyms.

Can I switch from AirPods 3 to AirPods 4 without losing my settings?

Yes, you can switch from AirPods 3 to AirPods 4 easily because both use the same iCloud sync system, so your device pairing, ear tip fit test results, and personalized spatial audio settings transfer automatically when you connect the new AirPods 4.

Do AirPods 4 have better battery life than AirPods 3?

No, AirPods 4 offer the same 5 hours of listening time per charge as AirPods 3, but the AirPods 4 case provides 30 total hours versus 30 hours on AirPods 3, so battery performance is essentially identical between the two models.

Difference Between

Difference Between Airpods 3 and 4

Written byNex Virox Team

Editorial Team

Reviewed byVarshal Nirbhavane

Senior SEO & Organic Growth Professional · 5+ years

Published: September 2, 202622 min read

Quick answer

The main difference between Airpods 3 and 4 is that the AirPods 4 feature the H2 chip, USB-C charging, and improved audio, while AirPods 3 use the H1 chip and Lightning port. Airpods 3 is a semi-open fit model with spatial audio, while 4 is a newer, lighter version with better call clarity and active noise cancellation on the Pro variant.

Key takeaways

Core distinction: AirPods 4 introduce the H2 chip, while AirPods 3 use the H1 chip, enabling better audio processing.
How they work: AirPods 4 offer optional active noise cancellation, whereas AirPods 3 feature only passive, open-ear fit.
Performance and cost: AirPods 4 deliver improved voice isolation and battery life, but they cost more than AirPods 3.
Best-fit use case: Choose AirPods 4 for noisy commutes, but pick AirPods 3 for budget-friendly, everyday listening.
Common decision mistake: Buyers often overlook that AirPods 4 have a redesigned, smaller case incompatible with AirPods 3.

Table of Contents18 sections

Difference Between Airpods 3 and 4: Comparison Table

Aspect	Airpods 3	4
Definition	Semi-open earbuds released in 2021 with spatial audio and sweat resistance.	Entry-level AirPods 4 released in 2024, replacing AirPods 2 with USB-C and improved fit.
Purpose	Designed for everyday listening with comfort-focused contoured shape and adaptive EQ.	Aims to deliver core AirPods features at lower cost, adding USB-C and better call quality.
Core Mechanism	Uses Apple H1 chip for seamless device switching and "Hey Siri" voice activation.	Employs Apple H2 chip enabling faster pairing, improved audio processing, and better power efficiency.
Audio Driver	Features custom high-excursion Apple driver with amplified sound and low distortion.	Includes updated low-distortion driver with stronger bass response and clearer high frequencies.
Chipset	H1 chip supports Bluetooth 5.0 and handles computational audio for spatial sound.	H2 chip supports Bluetooth 5.3, offering lower latency and enhanced computational audio capabilities.
Active Noise Cancellation	Lacks ANC entirely; relies on passive seal from semi-open ear design.	Base model lacks ANC; AirPods 4 with ANC adds active cancellation for louder environments.
Spatial Audio	Supports dynamic head tracking with personalized spatial audio for immersive listening.	Delivers spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, plus improved virtual surround for video content.
Battery Life	Offers up to 6 hours listening per charge, 30 hours total with case.	Provides up to 5 hours listening per charge, 30 hours total with case; ANC model gets 4 hours.
Charging Case	MagSafe-compatible case with Lightning port and wireless charging support.	USB-C charging case with wireless charging; smaller case footprint than AirPods 3.
Water Resistance	Rated IPX4 for sweat and water resistance during workouts and light rain.	Both AirPods 4 models rated IP54, adding dust resistance alongside sweat and water protection.
Weight	Each earbud weighs 4.28 grams; case weighs 37.91 grams total.	Each earbud weighs 4.3 grams; case weighs 32.6 grams, making it lighter overall.
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.0 with Apple's proprietary H1 chip for stable multi-device connections.	Bluetooth 5.3 with H2 chip, supporting improved range and reduced audio dropouts.
Voice Detection	Uses beamforming microphones with inward-facing mic for voice pickup during calls.	Enhanced voice recognition with better wind noise reduction and clearer call transmission.
Force Sensor	Includes force sensor stem for media controls: press once, twice, or hold.	Retains force sensor stem but adds gesture support for Siri interactions and call management.
Skin-Detect Sensor	Equipped with skin-detect sensor to auto-pause when earbuds are removed from ears.	Features updated skin-detect sensor that works more reliably with varied skin types and conditions.
Adaptive EQ	Adjusts sound in real time using inward-facing microphone based on ear shape.	H2 chip enables more responsive Adaptive EQ, tuning frequencies 480 times per second.
Find My Support	Supports Find My network with precision finding for case and individual earbuds.	Full Find My integration with Precision Finding for case and built-in speaker for audio alerts.
Case Speaker	Case lacks built-in speaker; locating relies on Bluetooth proximity only.	AirPods 4 case includes speaker for louder Find My alerts, aiding location in tight spaces.
Price Range	Launched at $179; often discounted to $149 or lower at major retailers.	Starts at $129 for base model; $179 for ANC version, undercutting AirPods 3 pricing.
Release Date	Announced October 2021 alongside Apple Music Voice Plan and MacBook Pro.	Released September 2024 with USB-C transition and iOS 18 features like gestures.
Compatibility	Works with iPhone 8 or later, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac with iCloud sync.	Requires iPhone SE 2nd gen or later, iOS 18, and supports full features on Apple devices only.
Android Support	Functions as standard Bluetooth earbuds on Android; no spatial audio or Siri.	Pairs via Bluetooth on Android; limited to basic playback, no H2 chip features accessible.
Case Dimensions	Case measures 46.2 x 54.0 x 21.3 mm, slightly bulkier than predecessor.	Case measures 45.2 x 50.1 x 21.2 mm, more compact and pocket-friendly design.
Microphone Quality	Dual beamforming mics with decent noise reduction for calls in moderate noise.	Improved microphone array with better wind shielding and clearer voice pickup in loud settings.
Charging Speed	5-minute charge provides roughly 1 hour of listening time via fast charge.	5-minute charge yields about 1 hour playback; case charges fully in under 1.5 hours.
Firmware Updates	Receives periodic updates via iOS; no manual update option for users.	Gets automatic firmware updates through iOS 18; supports new features like head gestures.
Accessory Support	Compatible with MagSafe chargers, Qi pads, and Lightning cables for case charging.	Uses USB-C cables and works with MagSafe; no Lightning compatibility on new model.
Durability	IPX4 rating covers sweat and splashes but not dust or submersion in water.	IP54 rating adds dust protection; still not waterproof but more resilient for daily wear.
Best-Fit Scenario	Ideal for budget-focused Apple users wanting spatial audio without ANC needs.	Best for new iPhone owners wanting USB-C, dust resistance, and optional ANC at lower price.

What Is Airpods 3?

Airpods 3 are Apple's third-generation wireless earbuds, released in October 2021. They deliver spatial audio, adaptive EQ, and sweat resistance. These earbuds exist to bridge the gap between the standard Airpods 2 and the Pro model, offering premium features without silicone ear tips.

Definition of Airpods 3

Airpods 3 are Apple's open-fit, semi-in-ear true wireless earbuds featuring the H1 chip, skin-detect sensors, and force sensor controls. They support Dolby Atmos spatial audio with dynamic head tracking and offer up to 30 hours of total listening time with the MagSafe charging case.

Key Characteristics of Airpods 3

Characteristic	What It Means in Practice
H1 chip	Provides faster device switching, lower latency gaming audio, and efficient power management for extended battery life.
Spatial audio	Tracks your head movement to create a 360-degree soundstage, making movies and music feel immersive and three-dimensional.
Adaptive EQ	Automatically tunes low and mid frequencies in real time based on the shape of your ear for consistent sound quality.
Skin-detect sensor	Pauses playback instantly when you remove an earbud and resumes when you reinsert it, preventing accidental music continuation.
Force sensor	Enables squeeze controls for play/pause, track skipping, and call management without needing to touch your phone.
IPX4 rating	Resists sweat and light water splashes, making these earbuds suitable for intense workouts and outdoor runs in rain.
MagSafe case	Charges wirelessly using magnetic alignment with Apple's MagSafe charger, plus supports standard Qi wireless charging pads.
Open-fit design	Rest gently in your ear without silicone tips, allowing ambient sound in for greater situational awareness during daily activities.
30-hour battery	Delivers 6 hours per charge with the case providing four additional full charges, totaling 30 hours of playback.
Bluetooth 5.0	Offers stable wireless connectivity up to 30 feet from your paired device, with support for AAC and SBC codecs.

Common Examples of Airpods 3

Daily commuter - Ideal for listening to podcasts on crowded trains thanks to the open-fit design that keeps you aware of surroundings.
Casual gym user - IPX4 sweat resistance handles moderate workouts, though heavy sweaters might prefer the Pro's ear tips.
iPhone owner - Seamless pairing and automatic switching between iPhone, iPad, and Mac make these a natural Apple ecosystem choice.
Movie enthusiast - Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking creates a theater-like experience when watching Dolby Atmos content.
Voice call user - Beamforming microphones filter background noise, delivering clearer conversations in busy environments like offices.
Battery-conscious listener - The 30-hour total battery life outperforms Airpods 2's 24 hours and matches many competitors in this price range.
Wireless charging adopter - MagSafe and Qi compatibility offer flexible charging options at home, in cars, or on the go.
Comfort seeker - The contoured shape fits a wider range of ear sizes than Airpods 2, reducing pressure during extended wear.
Siri user - "Hey Siri" voice activation lets you control music, check weather, or send texts hands-free while moving.
Find My network user - Precision Finding via the U1 chip in the case helps locate misplaced earbuds using your iPhone's ultra-wideband.

Advantages and Limitations of Airpods 3

Advantages	Limitations
Delivers spatial audio with head tracking for immersive entertainment without paying Pro-level prices.	Lacks active noise cancellation, so loud environments like subways or planes still let significant ambient noise through.
Offers IPX4 sweat and water resistance, making them more durable for workouts than the non-rated Airpods 2.	Open-fit design means bass response is weaker than sealed in-ear models, disappointing bass-heavy music fans.
Provides 30 hours total battery life with the case, matching Airpods Pro and exceeding standard Airpods by 6 hours.	No ear tip sizes are available, so people with very small or large ear canals may struggle to get a secure fit.
Supports MagSafe wireless charging, offering faster and more convenient charging than the Lightning-only Airpods 2.	Lacks wireless charging on the case itself; you must use a separate MagSafe or Qi pad, not included in the box.
Integrates seamlessly with Apple devices, enabling instant pairing, automatic switching, and Find My tracking.	Requires an Apple device for full functionality; Android users miss out on spatial audio and automatic ear detection.
Features skin-detect sensors that pause music automatically when removed, preventing battery drain from accidental playback.	Force sensor controls are less intuitive than touch controls on competitors, requiring a learning curve for new users.
Delivers clear voice calls with beamforming microphones, reducing background noise for the person on the other end.	No volume control on the earbuds themselves; you must use Siri or your connected device to adjust loudness.
Uses the H1 chip for lower latency, making them responsive for gaming and video playback without audio lag.	Battery life drops to 4 hours with spatial audio enabled, significantly reducing runtime for immersive content.
Weighs only 4.28 grams per earbud, making them among the lightest true wireless earbuds for all-day comfort.	Case is bulkier than Airpods 2's case due to the larger battery, taking up more pocket space.
Supports Bluetooth 5.0 with AAC codec, ensuring reliable connection and decent audio quality for most listeners.	No ear detection for Android users; the skin sensor only works when paired with Apple devices running iOS 14 or later.

What Is 4?

The AirPods 4 is Apple's standard open-ear wireless earbuds model released in September 2024. It replaces the AirPods 2 and AirPods 3 with a redesigned universal fit, USB-C charging, and the H2 chip. It exists to deliver improved sound and call quality without active noise cancellation in the base version.

Definition of 4

The AirPods 4 is a non-isolating, open-fit Bluetooth earbud pair powered by the Apple H2 chip, featuring a pressure-relieving acoustic vent and a skin-detect sensor. It supports Personalized Spatial Audio, Adaptive EQ, and IP54 dust and sweat resistance. Unlike the AirPods 4 with ANC, this base model lacks noise cancellation and wireless charging.

Key Characteristics of 4

Characteristic	What It Means in Practice
H2 chip	Delivers computational audio, better power efficiency, and faster Bluetooth 5.3 pairing with Apple devices.
USB-C charging	Uses the same cable as modern iPads and MacBooks; replaces the older Lightning port found on AirPods 3.
Open-fit design	Sits outside the ear canal without silicone tips; offers all-day comfort but no passive noise isolation.
IP54 rating	Resists sweat, dust, and light water splashes; suitable for workouts but not swimming or heavy rain.
No ANC	Lacks active noise cancellation; ambient sounds remain audible, which is safer for running or commuting.
Adaptive EQ	Automatically tunes low and mid frequencies in real time based on the fit and seal of the earbud.
Skin-detect sensor	Pauses playback automatically when you remove one earbud; stops music if placed on a non-skin surface.
Force sensor stem	Controls playback, calls, and Siri with squeezes; replaces the touch controls found on AirPods 3.
Charging case	Compact case with a speaker for Find My alerts; offers up to 30 hours total battery life with the case.
Voice isolation	Uses the H2 chip to reduce background noise during calls; your voice sounds clearer to the listener.

Common Examples of 4

Daily commuter - The open-fit design lets you hear train announcements and traffic while listening to podcasts or music.
Office worker - Use them for Zoom meetings and Teams calls; voice isolation keeps your speech clear in open-plan spaces.
Casual jogger - The IP54 rating handles sweat and light rain; no ear tips means no ear fatigue during long runs.
iPhone user - Seamless pairing, automatic device switching, and Find My support work best within the Apple ecosystem.
Podcast listener - Adaptive EQ boosts speech clarity; the H2 chip keeps dialogue crisp even at low volumes.
Traveler - USB-C charging matches most modern laptops and tablets; the case fits in a small pocket or pouch.
Multi-device owner - Bluetooth 5.3 allows quick switching between an iPhone, iPad, and Mac without re-pairing.
Budget-conscious buyer - Priced below the AirPods 4 with ANC; you save money if you don't need noise cancellation.
Gift giver - The universal open-fit shape works for most ear sizes; no need to guess about silicone tip sizes.
Night owl - The charging case provides up to 30 hours of total playback; you can go days without a wall outlet.

Advantages and Limitations of 4

Advantages	Limitations
Comfortable for all-day wear due to the pressure-relieving open-ear design that never plugs the ear canal.	No active noise cancellation; loud environments like subways or planes will require you to raise volume significantly.
USB-C charging simplifies cable management for users who already own modern Apple laptops or Android devices.	No wireless charging on the standard case; you must plug in a cable, unlike the AirPods 3 with MagSafe.
H2 chip delivers noticeably clearer call quality and better bass response compared to the older AirPods 3.	Open-fit design leaks sound at high volumes; people nearby can hear your music in quiet rooms.
IP54 sweat and dust resistance makes them reliable for gym sessions and outdoor runs in light weather.	Not waterproof; heavy rain, pool use, or showering can damage the internals permanently.
Skin-detect sensor prevents accidental playback when earbuds are placed on a table or in a pocket.	No ear tips mean a loose fit for some users; intense exercise may cause them to shift or fall out.
Force sensor stem gives tactile, reliable controls for playback and Siri without needing to touch your phone.	No volume controls on the stem; you must use Siri, your phone, or the connected device to adjust loudness.
Charging case with built-in speaker supports Find My precision tracking, making lost earbuds easier to locate.	Case battery life is shorter than competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE in continuous playback tests.
Adaptive EQ automatically tunes sound to your ear shape, providing consistent audio across different users.	No customizable EQ in the Settings app; you cannot manually adjust bass or treble to your personal taste.
Bluetooth 5.3 offers stable connections and lower latency for video watching and gaming on Apple devices.	Features like Spatial Audio and Siri announcements require an iPhone or iPad; Android support is limited.
Lighter than AirPods 3 at 4.3 grams per earbud, reducing ear fatigue during long listening sessions.	Battery life is rated at 5 hours per charge, which is shorter than the AirPods 3's 6-hour rating.

Similarities Between Airpods 3 and 4

Shared Aspect	How Airpods 3 and 4 Are Alike
Primary Purpose	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 deliver wireless audio for music, calls, and Siri interactions on Apple devices.
Product Category	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 are open-ear true wireless earbuds that fit without silicone ear tips.
Audio Input	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 receive audio via Bluetooth from iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches.
Audio Output	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 output sound through custom high-excursion Apple drivers with dynamic head tracking.
Target Users	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 suit Apple users who prefer a non-sealing, comfortable all-day earbud fit.
Setup Workflow	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 use the same one-tap pairing process with iCloud sync across all Apple devices.
Control Scheme	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 use force sensor stems for play, pause, track skip, and call management.
Voice Commands	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 support hands-free "Hey Siri" for volume changes, calls, and music requests.
Water Resistance	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 carry an IPX4 rating, meaning they withstand sweat and light rain during workouts.
Charging Case	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 use a compact wireless charging case with Lightning connector and MagSafe support.
Battery Life	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 deliver up to 5 hours of listening time on a single full charge.
Total Playback	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 provide up to 30 hours of total listening time when including case recharges.
Quick Charging	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 give about 1 hour of playback after just 5 minutes inside the charging case.
Bluetooth Standard	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 use Bluetooth 5.3 for stable, low-latency connections with Apple devices.
Chip Processing	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 run on the Apple H1 chip, which powers audio processing and device switching.
Spatial Audio	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 support personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for immersive sound.
Adaptive EQ	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 use Adaptive EQ that tunes low and mid frequencies to the shape of your ear.
Automatic Switching	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 seamlessly switch audio between iPhone, iPad, and Mac based on active usage.
Audio Sharing	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 let you share the same song or movie audio with another pair of Apple earbuds.
Find My Support	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 integrate with Apple's Find My network for locating lost earbuds or the case.
Firmware Updates	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 receive automatic over-the-air firmware updates when connected to an iPhone.
Microphone System	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 use beamforming microphones that focus on your voice while filtering background noise.
Call Clarity	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 employ voice-detection accelerometers to improve call quality by reducing wind noise.
Comfort Design	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 feature a contoured shape with a short stem, designed for universal ear compatibility.
Weight Range	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 weigh approximately 4.3 to 4.7 grams per earbud, making them light for extended wear.
Compatibility Scope	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 work with iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watches, and Apple TVs running recent software.
Accessory Options	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 support optional accessories like silicone case covers, ear hooks, and lanyards.
Long-Term Support	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 receive ongoing Apple software updates and remain compatible with new iOS releases.
Replacement Parts	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 offer individually replaceable earbuds and charging cases through Apple's service program.
Environmental Impact	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 use recycled rare earth elements in their magnets and have similar carbon footprints.

Airpods 3 or 4: Which Should You Choose?

The deciding variable is your need for active noise cancellation. Choose AirPods 4 if you want ANC and a better fit; choose AirPods 3 if you prioritize a lower price and open-ear comfort.

When to Use Airpods 3

Choose Airpods 3 when your budget is under $169 and you prefer a completely open ear canal for maximum situational awareness. They are ideal for calls in quiet offices or runs on empty streets, where ANC is unnecessary and the shorter stem feels lighter. They lack wireless charging convenience found on the 4.

When to Use 4

Choose 4 when you need active noise cancellation for $179 or want the new USB-C case with better speaker separation. They suit noisy commutes, open-plan workspaces, and gym sessions where the redesigned acoustic architecture and force sensor controls justify the $10 premium. The 4 also offers a better fit for smaller ears.

Common Misconceptions About Airpods 3 and 4

Common Myth	The Reality
AirPods 4 have active noise cancellation like AirPods Pro.	Only the AirPods 4 with ANC model cancels noise; the base AirPods 4 lacks it entirely, unlike AirPods Pro 2.
AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 have identical sound quality.	AirPods 4 use a new low-distortion driver and Apple H2 chip, delivering clearer highs and richer bass than AirPods 3.
AirPods 4 fit exactly the same as AirPods 3 in your ears.	AirPods 4 have a redesigned, shorter stem and a new acoustic mesh, but the earbud shape is slightly thinner for better comfort.
AirPods 4 support wireless charging with any Qi pad.	AirPods 4 charge via USB-C or Qi-certified pads; the base model lacks MagSafe, unlike AirPods 3 which supported MagSafe.
AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 have the same Bluetooth version.	AirPods 4 use Bluetooth 5.3 with improved connection stability and lower latency, while AirPods 3 use Bluetooth 5.0.
AirPods 4 do not have any force sensor controls.	AirPods 4 keep the force sensor on the stem for play/pause and track skipping, but add a new skin-detect sensor for auto-pause.
AirPods 4 battery life is shorter than AirPods 3.	AirPods 4 offer up to 5 hours per charge (same as AirPods 3), but the ANC model drops to 4 hours with noise cancellation on.
AirPods 4 are waterproof and safe for swimming.	AirPods 4 have IP54 dust and sweat resistance, but they are not waterproof; AirPods 3 have only IPX4 sweat resistance.
AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 use the same H1 chip.	AirPods 4 use the Apple H2 chip, which enables faster device switching and improved computational audio over AirPods 3's H1.
AirPods 4 have a built-in heart rate monitor.	No AirPods model measures heart rate; AirPods 4 only track motion via the accelerometer for head gestures, not health metrics.
AirPods 4 require iOS 17 or later to work fully.	AirPods 4 require iOS 18 or later for all features like head gestures and voice isolation; AirPods 3 work with iOS 15.
AirPods 4 case is larger and heavier than AirPods 3 case.	AirPods 4 case is slightly smaller and lighter (34g vs 37g), but the ANC version adds a speaker for Find My alerts.
AirPods 4 do not support spatial audio with dynamic head tracking.	AirPods 4 support personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, just like AirPods 3, but with better virtual surround staging.
AirPods 3 have a better microphone for calls than AirPods 4.	AirPods 4 have a new voice isolation feature and improved beamforming mics, making calls clearer in noisy environments than AirPods 3.
AirPods 4 are not compatible with Android phones.	AirPods 4 work as standard Bluetooth earbuds on Android, but you lose spatial audio, head gestures, and automatic ear detection.
AirPods 4 have a removable ear tip for a custom fit.	AirPods 4 are one-size-fits-all with no ear tips; the ANC model uses a vent system to reduce pressure, not silicone tips.
AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 have the same charging speed.	AirPods 4 charge faster via USB-C (5 min gives 1 hour), while AirPods 3 with Lightning need 5 min for 1 hour but slower overall.
AirPods 4 do not have a stem at all, unlike AirPods 3.	AirPods 4 still have a stem, but it is 33% shorter than AirPods 3's stem, making them less obtrusive while retaining touch controls.
AirPods 4 are significantly more expensive than AirPods 3.	AirPods 4 start at $129, same as AirPods 3's launch price; the ANC version costs $179, but AirPods 3 are often discounted now.
AirPods 4 have a longer wireless range than AirPods 3.	Both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 have a Class 1 Bluetooth range of about 30 feet, but AirPods 4 maintain connection better through walls.
AirPods 4 do not support Siri voice activation.	AirPods 4 support "Hey Siri" and new head nod/shake gestures for Siri replies, a feature AirPods 3 lack entirely.
AirPods 3 have a better low-frequency response than AirPods 4.	AirPods 4's H2 chip and new driver produce deeper, more controlled bass at 20Hz, while AirPods 3 roll off below 50Hz.
AirPods 4 case is not compatible with MagSafe chargers.	The AirPods 4 ANC case supports MagSafe, but the base AirPods 4 case only supports Qi and USB-C, unlike AirPods 3's MagSafe case.
AirPods 4 have a higher volume limit than AirPods 3.	AirPods 4 reach a similar max volume, but the H2 chip reduces distortion at high output, so they sound cleaner at loud levels.
AirPods 4 do not have an accelerometer for fitness tracking.	AirPods 4 include a motion accelerometer that detects head gestures and taps, but it does not count steps like a fitness band.
AirPods 3 are more comfortable for small ears than AirPods 4.	AirPods 4 have a redesigned contour with a shorter stem, which Apple claims fits more ear shapes, but individual comfort varies widely.
AirPods 4 have a transparent mode like AirPods Pro.	Only the AirPods 4 with ANC has an Adaptive Transparency mode; the base AirPods 4 has no transparency or noise control at all.
AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 have identical latency for gaming.	AirPods 4 with H2 chip reduce audio latency by up to 30% compared to AirPods 3, making them better for fast-paced mobile gaming.
AirPods 4 do not come with a USB-C cable in the box.	AirPods 4 include a USB-C to USB-C charging cable, while AirPods 3 came with a Lightning to USB-C cable, so you need a new cable.
AirPods 4 are a direct replacement for AirPods 3 with no trade-offs.	AirPods 4 lose the wireless charging case on the base model and have shorter battery with ANC, but gain better sound and features.

Conclusion

Difference Between Airpods 3 and 4 comes down to fit, chip, and controls. Choose AirPods 3 for a universal fit and lower price. Choose AirPods 4 for the H2 chip, improved sound, and force sensor controls. Your ear shape and budget decide the winner.

FAQs on Difference Between Airpods 3 and 4

What is the difference between AirPods 3 and AirPods 4?: The AirPods 4 feature a redesigned open-ear fit with improved comfort, while the AirPods 3 use the older contoured design; the AirPods 4 also add USB-C charging and the H2 chip, which the AirPods 3 lack.
Which is better, AirPods 3 or AirPods 4?: The AirPods 4 are better because they deliver the H2 chip's enhanced audio processing, better call quality, and a more secure fit, while the AirPods 3 rely on the older H1 chip with less refined sound and weaker noise reduction during calls.
Do AirPods 4 cost more than AirPods 3?: Yes, AirPods 4 typically cost $129 compared to the AirPods 3's $169 launch price, but the AirPods 3 often sell for around $119 at retailers, making the newer AirPods 4 only slightly more expensive for significant upgrades.
Are AirPods 4 safe to wear for long periods?: Yes, AirPods 4 are safe for extended wear because they use an open-ear design that reduces ear canal pressure and include the same volume limits as AirPods 3, but you should take breaks every 90 minutes to prevent listening fatigue.
Are AirPods 4 compatible with older iPhone models?: Yes, AirPods 4 work with any iPhone that runs iOS 18 or later, which includes iPhone XS and newer models, while AirPods 3 require only iOS 15.1, so older phones like the iPhone 8 won't support AirPods 4.
What is the biggest mistake people make when choosing between AirPods 3 and 4?: The biggest mistake is assuming both have the same features because AirPods 4 add USB-C charging and the H2 chip, while AirPods 3 use Lightning and lack the improved spatial audio with dynamic head tracking found in the newer model.
Can I use AirPods 3 cases with AirPods 4?: No, AirPods 3 cases do not fit AirPods 4 because the AirPods 4 charging case is slightly shorter and wider, and the speaker grille placement differs, so you must buy a dedicated AirPods 4 case for proper protection and charging access.
Which AirPods should I buy for daily commuting and workouts?: For daily commuting and workouts, choose AirPods 4 because they offer better sweat and water resistance with an IP54 rating versus the IPX4 on AirPods 3, plus the improved H2 chip provides clearer calls in noisy streets and gyms.
Can I switch from AirPods 3 to AirPods 4 without losing my settings?: Yes, you can switch from AirPods 3 to AirPods 4 easily because both use the same iCloud sync system, so your device pairing, ear tip fit test results, and personalized spatial audio settings transfer automatically when you connect the new AirPods 4.
Do AirPods 4 have better battery life than AirPods 3?: No, AirPods 4 offer the same 5 hours of listening time per charge as AirPods 3, but the AirPods 4 case provides 30 total hours versus 30 hours on AirPods 3, so battery performance is essentially identical between the two models.