Looking for an honest Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 vs Soundcore Liberty 4 NC comparison in 2026? We scored both earbuds on the same six-dimension framework — performance, battery, display, camera, design and value — using identical methodology, so the numbers below are directly comparable. In our overall scoring the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC comes out ahead 47/100 to 81/100 — a 34-point gap. The widest gap is in performance, where the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC pulls noticeably ahead. On price the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC undercuts the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 by 45% ($46.99 vs $68), which materially changes the value calculus for budget-conscious buyers.
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Soundcore Liberty 4 NC clearly outperforms the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 in the earbuds category, especially in performance, scoring 81 vs 47. If you want the better overall earbuds, Soundcore Liberty 4 NC is the recommended choice.
Picking Soundcore Liberty 4 NC over Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 means trading these off.
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 | Soundcore Liberty 4 NCW |
|---|---|---|
| Type | In-ear (TWS) | In-ear (TWS) |
| Driver Type | Dynamic | Dynamic 11mm |
| Driver Size | 11mm✓ | 10mm |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz | 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz |
| ANC | Active Noise Cancelling | Active Noise Cancelling (-25dB) |
| Transparency Mode |
Buy Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 if…
The Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
Buy Soundcore Liberty 4 NC if…
Buy the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC if you want the best performance in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
Soundcore Liberty 4 NC clearly outperforms the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 in the earbuds category, especially in performance, scoring 81 vs 47. If you want the better overall earbuds, Soundcore Liberty 4 NC is the recommended choice.
No, Soundcore Liberty 4 NC scores higher (81 vs 47).
Soundcore Liberty 4 NC is cheaper at $46.99 vs $68 for the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024.
The Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
Buy the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC if you want the best performance in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
Soundcore Liberty 4 NC lasts longer with 9 hours vs 5 hours for the other.
Reviewed by VersusMatrix Editorial Team
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Methodology: AI-powered analysis of technical specifications from manufacturer data. Scores are calculated by comparing products across multiple dimensions and normalized relative to the full category database. Our editorial process is independent and not influenced by affiliate partnerships.
Scores are relative within the earbudscategory. Percentages show each dimension's weight in the overall score. A difference of less than 0.5 points is considered a tie.
| Yes (Transparency mode) |
| Yes (Transparency mode) |
| Spatial Audio | Yes (Dolby Atmos) | true |
| EQ App | AirPods app | Soundcore app |
| Touch Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Siri, Google |
| Battery Life | 5hrs | 9hrs✓ |
| Case Battery | 30hrs✓ | 28hrs |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (MagSafe) | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC |
| Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Fit | In-ear | — |
| Weight | 4.3g✓ | 5g |
| Colors | White, Black | Black, White |
| Price | 68$ | 46.99$✓ |

