“In this episode of the Macworld Podcast, we review the new Apple Watch Series 10 and the AirPods 4. Are these new devices worth your money? We talk about what we like, dislike, and more!”
No publisher rating · 12mo ago
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AirPods 4
$129 · H2 · 2y 1m old
80
Positive consensus
Critic score · 3 publisher ratings
Quick recommendation
Shortlist
Worth shortlisting if the size, storage tier and release timing fit your upgrade plan.
callsgym bagscasual listening
Check first
Value 70Consensus80/100
Worth shortlisting if the size, storage tier and release timing fit your upgrade plan.
Lifecycle2y 1m old
Recent products usually age better, but older Apple gear can be compelling refurbished.
Value score70/100
Blends critic consensus, list price, lifecycle timing, and review confidence.
Managing Editor's Verdict
At $129, the AirPods 4 sit comfortably in the sweet spot for anyone who wants Apple’s seamless ecosystem without paying Pro‑level premiums. The new H2 chip delivers crisp, balanced audio that holds up well for calls, gym playlists, and casual listening, and the spatial‑audio support feels genuinely immersive for its price tier. Battery life is respectable—just shy of a full day of mixed use—and the case’s quick‑charge convenience means you’re rarely caught without a few extra minutes of playback. If you’re already entrenched in iOS, the automatic device switching and “Find My” integration are as smooth as they come, making these the most convenient true‑wireless earbuds you can buy under $180.
That convenience comes with trade‑offs. The ANC, while surprisingly competent, still lets a low‑level hiss through in louder environments, and it can’t match the Pro’s adaptive cancelation or the richer bass response you’ll find in competing premium models at a similar price point. Battery longevity lags just enough to be noticeable on long‑haul commutes, and the lack of interchangeable tips means a perfect seal is hit‑or‑miss for many ears. Bottom line: the AirPods 4 are an excellent, hassle‑free choice for everyday Apple users, but if you demand top‑tier noise isolation or a more immersive soundstage, the AirPods Pro or a rival brand will give you better bang for your buck.
Editorial Team
Sanjiv Sathiah
Managing Editor
Sanjiv is a veteran technology journalist and the Managing Editor across our network. With over 15 years of experience writing and reviewing consumer electronics, his bylines have appeared in top-tier tech publications including MacNN, Electronista, SlashGear, and Notebook Check. His deep industry knowledge and authoritative, buyer-focused insights drive our "Editor's Verdict" recommendations, ensuring you cut through the noise and buy the right tech.
Store options
Lowest recorded price: $99 at Amazon; record updated 13 Aug 2026; retailer check unverified.
Recorded value80.81
Review score per $100 from the lowest recorded price; record updated 13 Aug 2026; retailer check unverified.
📷B&H PhotoRecorded price · record updated 13 Aug 2026; retailer check unverified$119.95Check price →
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Spec sheet
Core product facts, grouped for quick comparison before you shortlist or buy.
Core product facts
- Starting price
- $129
- Chip
- H2
- Released
- Sep 20, 2024 (2y 1m old)
- Category
- AirPods
Buying context
- Best matched buyers
- calls, gym bags, casual listening
- Review coverage
- 5 critic reviews
- Value score
- 70/100
- Buying call
- Shortlist
Review takeaways
Shortlist
Macworld points to In this episode of the Macworld Podcast, we review the new Apple Watch Series 10 and the AirPods 4.
Critics agree on
Macworld source signalReference price around $129H2 performance context80/100 critic consensus
Best for
callsgym bagscasual listening
Watch-outs
- Check live pricing around $129 before buying.
- Compare this model against the nearest newer option before paying full retail.
- H2 performance is strong, but storage, display, and accessory needs still matter.
Decision
- Value score: 76/100 from price, age, and reviews.
- AirPods 4 is based on 5 tracked review sources.
Review confidence
How confident is the review picture?
Publisher ratings
3
Median score
80
Full review links
5
Score range
70-90
Publisher rating distribution
Positive
2
Mixed
1
Negative
0
Highest-rated review
“While we wish the battery life was a bit better, they're some of the best buds you'll find for under $180.”
Tom's Guide · 90
Lowest-rated review
“they're good, but you can do better for the price”
TechRadar · 70
Alternatives
Compare with nearby picks
Apple specialist reviews
Estimate65
“AirPods 4 with ANC no replacement for AirPods Pro”
Publisher did not issue a rating. This estimate is excluded from the Critic Score. · 25mo ago
Tech publication reviews
90
Tom's GuideRead review ↗
“While we wish the battery life was a bit better, they're some of the best buds you'll find for under $180.”
Publisher rating: 4.5/5 · 12mo ago
80
The VergeRead review ↗
“Both sound good, but the ANC works surprisingly well — most of the time.”
Publisher rating: 8/10 · 12mo ago
70
TechRadarRead review ↗
“they're good, but you can do better for the price”
Publisher rating: 3.5/5 · 25mo ago
Your take
Add your score and help other buyers compare.
80
AirPods 4
Recorded price: $119.95