The bottom line The Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation are the first open-fit AirPods to include Active Noise Cancellation at $179. The H2 chip (same as AirPods Pro 2) delivers ANC without requiring silicone ear tips, the open-fit design (no tips inserted into ear canal) preserves environmental awareness during walks and runs, the 5-hour earbud battery (30 hours with case) covers daily commute, the USB-C charging case replaces the Lightning case of AirPods 3, the Spatial Audio with head-tracking works seamlessly with Apple TV+ and Apple Music, the conversation awareness automatically lowers volume when speaking detected, the IP54 dust + water resistance covers gym workouts, and the Find My integration locates lost earbuds. The trade is the open-fit ANC that's weaker than AirPods Pro 2 sealed-tip ANC and a fit some users find slips during running.
Value
At $179 the AirPods 4 with ANC are the right open-fit Apple earbuds with ANC in 2026.
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Should you buy the Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation?
The Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation are the first open-fit AirPods to include Active Noise Cancellation at $179. The H2 chip (same as AirPods Pro 2) delivers ANC without requiring silicone ear tips, the open-fit design (no tips inserted into ear canal) preserves environmental awareness during walks and runs, the 5-hour earbud battery (30 hours with case) covers daily commute, the USB-C charging case replaces the Lightning case of AirPods 3, the Spatial Audio with head-tracking works seamlessly with Apple TV+ and Apple Music, the conversation awareness automatically lowers volume when speaking detected, the IP54 dust + water resistance covers gym workouts, and the Find My integration locates lost earbuds. The trade is the open-fit ANC that's weaker than AirPods Pro 2 sealed-tip ANC and a fit some users find slips during running.
Yes for iPhone users who hate silicone tips. The open-fit ANC delivers meaningful noise reduction while preserving environmental awareness.
📅 Update log
May 13, 2026Added 7-month observations.
Oct 8, 2025Initial review published.
TR
Author
Tom Reeves
Senior Electronics & TV Editor
Tom Reeves has reviewed consumer electronics for over a decade, with a focus on televisions, monitors, laptops, and smart home devices. He worked as a professional display calibrator before moving into editorial, and he brings that hands-on technical background to every TV and monitor review. At TheTestedHub, Tom covers display calibration, computer monitors, laptops and 2-in-1s, smart home platforms, home theater setups, and HDR performance.
