Apple’s release of the AirPods 4 shook up its audio lineup in a big way. For the first time, Apple released **two different versions** of the base-model AirPods: a standard entry-level version and a premium version featuring Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
If you are currently rocking the older AirPods 3 (released in 2021) or are trying to decide which model to buy right now in India, here is exactly how they stack up.
Pricing in India (INR)
Here is how the pricing currently breaks down in India:
AirPods 4 (Standard): ₹12,900
AirPods 4 (with ANC): ₹17,900
AirPods 3 (Lightning Charging Case): ₹14,900
AirPods 3 (MagSafe Charging Case): ₹15,900
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Audio
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds
AirPods 4 deliver practical upgrades for Apple ecosystem users: H2 chip enables Voice Isolation for call clarity, Personalized Spatial Audio adapts to your listening geometry, and 30-hour total battery life (6 hours per charge + case) covers extended workdays. USB-C charging and IP4 water resistance add durability without eliminating real tradeoffs in fit customization.
1. Design and Fit
* **AirPods 4:** The 4th generation features a slimmer, contoured acoustic design intended to fit a wider variety of ear shapes securely. The case is smaller, and the physical pairing button has been replaced by a hidden capacitive touch sensor. They also offer upgraded **IP54** durability, making them dust, sweat, and water-resistant.
* **AirPods 3:** These have a slightly bulkier shape and are IPX4 rated, which covers sweat and water but lacks official dust resistance.
2. Audio and Smart Features (H1 vs. H2)
* **AirPods 4:** Powered by the newer **H2 chip**, these offer better overall audio clarity and richer bass. A major addition is **Voice Isolation**, which actively filters out background noise during phone calls. They also support new Siri Interactions, allowing you to simply nod your head "yes" or shake it "no" to respond to Siri prompts. Both AirPods 4 models also feature a modern **USB-C** charging case.
* **AirPods 3:** Powered by the older H1 chip, these still sound great but lack the advanced computational audio processing and Siri head-tracking interactions of the newer models. They also rely on a Lightning cable.
Audio
Apple AirPods Pro 3
AirPods Pro 3 deliver measurable upgrades: 2x noise cancellation improvement over Pro 2, 8-hour battery with ANC enabled, and built-in health sensors (heart rate, workout tracking across 50 types). The addition of Live Translation and Apple Intelligence integration makes these genuinely useful for knowledge workers who travel or work across languages.
3. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
* **AirPods 4 (₹17,900 model):** This is the game-changer. By paying a bit more for the premium AirPods 4, you get full **Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, and Adaptive Audio**—features previously reserved only for the AirPods Pro line.
* **AirPods 3:** These do not offer any form of noise cancellation or transparency modes.
4. Battery Life
* **AirPods 3:** The older generation actually wins here, offering up to **6 hours** of listening time on a single charge.
* **AirPods 4:** The newer models offer up to **5 hours** of listening time, dropping to **4 hours** if you are actively using ANC. Both generations provide around 30 total hours of battery life when factoring in the charging case.
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The Verdict for Indian Buyers
**If you are buying new:** There is no compelling reason to purchase the AirPods 3. The standard **AirPods 4 (₹12,900) are ₹2,000 cheaper** than the base AirPods 3 while offering a better processor, USB-C, and better durability.
**The Best Value:** The **AirPods 4 with ANC at ₹17,900** is arguably the best deal in Apple's current audio lineup. It bridges the gap by giving you Pro-level noise cancellation without forcing you to use silicone ear tips.