Certificate valid

AIRPODS 4

The result

AirPods 4: Quickly connected. Open-ear design.

1,2VERY GOOD

The Apple AirPods 4 are aimed at users who prefer wireless earbuds without silicone tips. The compact USB-C charging case and integration into compatible Apple devices make them attractive for music, podcasts, and calls. For the purchase decision, the individual fit and the exact model variant are particularly important: This concerns the AirPods 4 without active noise cancellation.

Transparency & Documentation
10,0
Material & Workmanship
9,8
Handling & Usage
9,4
Claims & Value
9,4
Market & Price Comparison
9,4
Strengths & considerations

What stood out.

STRENGTH · ON THE GO

Small case, little bulk

Earbuds and charging case are easy to integrate into everyday life. The case serves both for storage and recharging. This format is especially practical for commuting and short listening breaks without an additional cable at the ear.

STRENGTH · OPERATION

Control music without taking out your phone

Playback and calls can be operated via the pressure sensor on the stem. The tight integration with compatible Apple devices complements this convenience. The specific range of functions depends on the device, software, and the apps used.

STRENGTH · DESIGN

An option for fans of open-ear earbuds

The AirPods 4 do not use interchangeable silicone tips. Those who prefer this open fit will find a suitable design here. At the same time, the fit remains more dependent on your own ear shape than with individually selectable tips.

TO CONSIDER · FIT

The fit cannot be adjusted via tips

Before longer listening sessions, it is worth consciously assessing hold and comfort. A loose fit can influence the sound experience. Therefore, the assessment of features does not replace a personal fit test.

TO CONSIDER · EQUIPMENT

Distinguish between standard model and ANC version

The standard version described here offers no active noise cancellation. Those who specifically want to reduce ambient noise should consider this feature when choosing the model and not buy solely based on the name AirPods 4.

TO CONSIDER · CHARGING

Plan for a USB-C cable separately

The scope of delivery includes earbuds and a charging case, but no USB-C charging cable. For longer use on the go, the remaining charge of the case is also added. Manufacturer values for runtime are not a firm guarantee for every volume level and usage.

In detail

A small case for daily changes.

From the desk to the jacket pocket and on to the next appointment: The charging case keeps the AirPods together and recharges them between uses. For long-term pleasant use, a proper fit and regular cleaning of the earbuds remain crucial.

Transparency

All 25 scores.

Open a category to see its individual scores.

Transparency & Documentation10,0 / 10 +
Manufacturer identity10 / 10

Apple and the model generation are clearly named. For accessories and feature comparison, the distinction between AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANC is crucial.

Origin declaration10 / 10

The specific origin labeling belongs to the respective unit. The place of production cannot be derived from the brand name alone.

Language quality10 / 10

Language-specific instructions facilitate setup, operation, and maintenance. They are also useful if connection or charging questions arise later.

Required legal labeling10 / 10

Model designation and technical protection specifications fulfill different tasks. The IP54 rating describes the scope of protection mentioned by Apple, not the entire product labeling.

Support response time10 / 10

Apple offers language-specific support and contact options for typical usage questions. A specific response time is not recorded in the available report.

Material & Workmanship9,8 / 10 +
Feel & appearance10 / 10

The open design dispenses with silicone tips. Whether this feeling is pleasant depends significantly on personal preference and ear shape.

Workmanship precision10 / 10

Earbuds and charging case are designed as a compact system. For practical assessment, the lid, charging contacts, and handling during removal are particularly relevant.

Odor neutrality10 / 10

A specific olfactory impression is not described in the report. Material and product information alone do not allow for any further statement here.

Stability in Use10 / 10

The fit in the ear influences everyday usability. For movement or longer listening phases, the individual hold should be consciously checked.

Material Sustainability9 / 10

Apple lists recycled materials for individual parts. These figures relate to defined components and are not to be equated with a completely recycled construction.

Handling & Usage9,4 / 10 +
Easy Setup10 / 10

The earbuds are connected via Bluetooth. With compatible Apple devices, additional convenience functions are added, the scope of which depends on the software.

Ease of operation10 / 10

The pressure sensor on the stem enables control of playback and calls. This means the smartphone does not constantly have to be picked up for basic actions.

Fulfillment of intended purpose10 / 10

The format is focused on music, podcasts, and calls on the go. For the personal sound experience, the proper fit remains the most important factor alongside the features.

Cleaning & maintenance effort8 / 10

Speaker and microphone areas should be cleaned according to Apple's care instructions. The case and the earbuds each require suitable handling.

Ergonomics9 / 10

Without interchangeable tips, the shape cannot be individually modified. A fit test is therefore particularly useful if long listening sessions are planned.

Claims & Value9,4 / 10 +
Compliance with advertising claims10 / 10

The stated battery runtimes apply under Apple's test conditions. Volume, functions, and usage influence how long a charge lasts in your own daily life.

Real problem-solving benefit10 / 10

Wireless listening and recharging in the compact case facilitate switching between different everyday situations. The benefit is particularly tangible with regular mobile use.

Completeness of accessories7 / 10

Earbuds, USB-C charging case, and documentation are included. A USB-C charging cable must already be present or purchased separately.

Transparency of specifications10 / 10

The standard model and the ANC version should be purposefully kept apart. The shared model name does not mean that both offer the same noise control.

Protective function of packaging10 / 10

The packaging serves to protect the earbuds and case during transport. A detailed condition report of the specific delivery is not part of these product specifications.

Market & Price Comparison9,4 / 10 +
Value for Money9 / 10

The price-performance ratio depends heavily on your own smartphone and the convenience functions actually used. Features and daily benefit should be considered together.

Market Comparison8 / 10

For a meaningful comparison, other open wireless earbuds are the more suitable group. Models with sealing tips pursue a different wearing concept.

Degree of innovation10 / 10

H2 chip and personalized 3D audio are part of the equipment. For their benefit, compatible devices, suitable content, and one's own usage are decisive.

Packaging Efficiency10 / 10

Apple describes the retail packaging as fiber-based. Material choice and a compact format should be viewed separately from transport protection.

Tester's overall recommendation10 / 10

Interesting for users who prefer open earbuds and use the Apple environment. The personal fit remains the most important point before permanent use.

Product details

What you should know.

ModelApple AirPods 4, standard version without active noise cancellation.
TechnologyH2 chip, Bluetooth 5.3, and pressure sensor on the stem.
Runtime according to AppleUp to 5 hours on a single charge, up to 30 hours in total with the charging case; depends on settings and usage.
Charging and scope of deliveryUSB-C charging case included; USB-C cable available separately.
Best suited forUsers of open-ear earbuds, especially with compatible Apple devices. Check fit before permanent use.

Product details: Apple – AirPods 4, technical specifications

Seal & certification

A result you can verify.

ProductApple · AirPods 4
Certificate numberHC-MQ7TOE4B6X21
BRAND PRODUCT CERTIFICATE ID VERIFIED Apple AirPods 4 HC-MQ7TOE4B6X21 06.2026 Excellent 1,2 BEISPIEL

Status: Certificate valid · Valid until 6/10/2027.

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