Apple AirPods Pro drop 33%, iPhone's best ANC buds

No matter your budget, Apple has AirPods to suit your needs. The latest AirPods models are currently discounted, including our top pick for iPhone users - the AirPods Pro. The second-generation AirPods Pro with USB-C charging has seen a 32% price drop, now available for just $169 (originally $249). The mid-range AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) has been reduced to $149 (from $179), while the budget-friendly AirPods 4 without ANC now costs only $99 (down from $129).

Apple AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C for $169

The AirPods Pro stand out as the premium wireless earbuds for iPhone users, featuring excellent noise cancellation, high-quality sound reproduction powered by the Apple H2 chip, and an in-ear design that provides superior passive isolation. These second-generation models boast useful features like Adaptive Transparency Mode for hearing your surroundings and Conversation Boost for clearer voice pickup. The inclusion of USB-C charging and MagSafe compatibility eliminates cable clutter.

AirPods 4 Options: With ANC ($149) and Without ($99)

Released in September 2024, the AirPods 4 come in two versions. Both models represent significant upgrades from the AirPods 3, featuring the newer H2 chip, Bluetooth 5.3, improved IP54 dust/water resistance, USB-C charging, and optical in-ear detection instead of skin sensors. The primary difference lies in the ANC functionality offered by the premium model.

Choosing Between AirPods Pro and AirPods 4 with ANC

The AirPods Pro delivers superior audio quality and more effective noise cancellation at just $20 more than the ANC-equipped AirPods 4. This performance gap stems from their different designs - the Pro's in-ear fit with customizable tips provides better passive isolation compared to the AirPods 4's open-ear design. The AirPods 4 ANC might be preferable only for users who find in-ear buds uncomfortable.

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