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Not long after their September announcement, I got my mitts on some entry-levelApple AirPods 4.

Sadly, to get this effect, you pay a hefty price: detail.

AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2, held together to show the differences

The ‘open ear’ design on the left won’t suit all buyers, but the tiny case will

They pair perfectly with my Apple phone with a pop-up as soon as I flip launch the case.

This is Apple’s newest ‘open ear’ fit based on alotof ear-mapping research.

What is beautifully small is the case, which carries through to the packaging.

AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2, held together to show the differences

The ‘open ear’ design on the left won’t suit all buyers, but the tiny case will

And it’s very easy to underestimate how much I want that.

I think we all do.

So, despite the notable loss of detail in audio tracks, I like AirPods 4.

AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2, held together to show the differences

They’re just so agreeable to use and inconsequential when slipped into a pocket!

(Then again this is Apple, so they usually do…)

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AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2, held together to show the differences

The ‘open ear’ design on the left won’t suit all buyers, but the tiny case will

AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2, held together to show the differences