Looking for an honest Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 vs Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) 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 Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 comes out ahead 47/100 to 34/100 — a 13-point gap. The widest gap is in design and build, where the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 pulls noticeably ahead. On price the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 undercuts the Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) by 266% ($68 vs $249), which materially changes the value calculus for budget-conscious buyers.
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Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 edges out the Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) in the earbuds category, especially in value ($68 vs $249), scoring 47 vs 34. If you want the better overall earbuds, Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 is the recommended choice.
Picking Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 over Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) means trading these off.
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
✓ Pros
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024W | Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | In-ear (TWS) | — |
| Driver Type | Dynamic | — |
| Driver Size | 11mm | — |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz | — |
| ANC | Active Noise Cancelling | true |
| Transparency Mode | Yes (Transparency mode) |
Buy Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 if…
Buy the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 if you want the best overall value in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
Buy Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) if…
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 edges out the Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) in the earbuds category, especially in value ($68 vs $249), scoring 47 vs 34. If you want the better overall earbuds, Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 is the recommended choice.
Yes, Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 scores higher overall (72 vs 91).
Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 is cheaper at $68 vs $249 for the Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C).
Buy the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 if you want the best overall value in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) lasts longer with 6 hours vs 5 hours for the other.
Reviewed by VersusMatrix Editorial Team
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Methodology: AI-powered analysis of technical specifications from manufacturer data. Scores are calculated by comparing products across multiple dimensions and normalized relative to the full category database. Our editorial process is independent and not influenced by affiliate partnerships.
Scores are relative within the earbudscategory. Percentages show each dimension's weight in the overall score. A difference of less than 0.5 points is considered a tie.
✗ Cons
| — |
| Spatial Audio | Yes (Dolby Atmos) | — |
| EQ App | AirPods app | — |
| Touch Controls | Yes | — |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | — |
| Battery Life | 5hrs | 6hrs✓ |
| Case Battery | 30hrs | 30hrs |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (MagSafe) | — |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 | — |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | — |
| Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | — |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | — |
| Fit | In-ear | — |
| Weight | 4.3g | — |
| Colors | White, Black | — |
| Price | 68$✓ | 249$ |