Looking for an honest Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 vs JLab Epic 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 JLab Epic comes out ahead 47/100 to 81/100 — a 34-point gap. The widest gap is in performance, where the JLab Epic pulls noticeably ahead. On price the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 undercuts the JLab Epic by 46% ($68 vs $99), which materially changes the value calculus for budget-conscious buyers.

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JLab Epic 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, JLab Epic is the recommended choice.
Picking JLab Epic over Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 means trading these off.
$68
Scores are relative within the earbudscategory. Percentages show each dimension's weight in the overall score. A difference of less than 0.5 points is considered a tie.
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 | JLab EpicW |
|---|---|---|
| Type | In-ear (TWS) | — |
| Driver Type | Dynamic | — |
| Driver Size | 11mm✓ | 10mm |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz | — |
| ANC | Active Noise Cancelling | false |
| Transparency Mode | Yes (Transparency mode) | true |
| Spatial Audio | Yes (Dolby Atmos) | true |
| EQ App | AirPods app | — |
| Touch Controls | Yes | — |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Siri, Google |
| Battery Life | 5hrs | 10hrs✓ |
| Case Battery | 30hrs | — |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (MagSafe) | true |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | AAC, SBC |
| Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | false |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Fit | In-ear | — |
| Weight | 4.3g✓ | 8g |
| Colors | White, Black | Black, Green |
| Price | 68$✓ | 99$ |
Buy Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 if…
Choose the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 if budget is your top priority — it offers competitive specs at a lower price point.
Buy JLab Epic if…
Buy the JLab Epic if you want the best performance in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
JLab Epic 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, JLab Epic is the recommended choice.
No, JLab Epic scores higher (81 vs 47).
Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 is cheaper at $68 vs $99 for the JLab Epic.
Choose the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 if budget is your top priority — it offers competitive specs at a lower price point.
Buy the JLab Epic if you want the best performance in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
JLab Epic lasts longer with 10 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.