If you’re in the market for new wireless earbuds, you might be wondering whether to buy the AirPods 3 now or wait for the anticipated AirPods 4. This article will help you weigh your options by examining the potential features and improvements of the upcoming AirPods 4 compared to the current AirPods 3.
- Will There Be AirPods 4?
- Should I Buy the AirPods 3 Now?
- What is the Difference Between AirPods 3 and 4?
- Is the AirPods 4 Worth Waiting for?
Will There Be AirPods 4?
While there hasn’t been an official announcement yet, industry insiders and leaks indicate that Apple is working on the next generation of AirPods, which could be released within this year, most likely in September alongside the new iPhone 16. These rumors often point to incremental updates and new features that could make the AirPods 4 a worthwhile upgrade.
Should I Buy the AirPods 3 Now?
The AirPods 3, released in late 2021, have been well-received for their improved sound quality, extended battery life, and enhanced design. They offer a significant upgrade from the AirPods 2, including spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, sweat and water resistance, and a more comfortable fit. If you need a reliable pair of earbuds now, the AirPods 3 are a solid choice. However, if you’re not in a rush, it might be worth considering what the AirPods 4 could bring to the table, which is expected to be the best AirPods 2024.
What is the Difference Between AirPods 3 and 4?
While we don’t have all the details on the AirPods 4 yet, we can speculate based on Apple’s track record and industry leaks. Here are some potential differences:
AirPods 4 vs AirPods 3: Design
The AirPods 4 are rumored to feature a refined design. While the AirPods 3 have a shorter stem and more ergonomic shape compared to their predecessors, the AirPods 4 might introduce even more compact dimensions and potentially new color options. Another unsurprising upgrade is the USB-C port, which was also introduced in 2023 to the entire iPhone 15 series.
AirPods 4 vs AirPods 3: Sound Quality
Apple is likely to continue improving sound quality with each iteration. AirPods 4 are equipped with the H2 chip also used in AirPods Pro 2, which can provide crisper and louder sounds and more advanced spatial audio capabilities compared to AirPods 3.
AirPods Gen 3 vs Gen 4: Connectivity and Features
With each new release, Apple tends to incorporate the latest in Bluetooth technology. The AirPods 4 could feature Bluetooth 5.3, providing more stable connections and lower latency. In addition, new features such as active noise cancellation (ANC), “Find My Alert”, and conversation enhancement that are only available in the Pro version may also be introduced.
AirPods Gen 3 vs Gen 4: Battery Life
Battery life is always a key concern with wireless earbuds. The AirPods 3 already offer up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge. The AirPods 4 might push this even further, potentially offering up to 7 or 8 hours of listening time with improved battery efficiency.
AirPods 3rd Gen vs 4th Gen: Price
AirPods 4 may be launched in two versions, namely AirPods 4 and AirPods Lite. The former is expected to be priced at US$179, the same as the previous generation, and the latter at US$99. The AirPods 3 could see a price drop, making them a more affordable option for those who don’t need the latest features.
Is the AirPods 4 Worth Waiting for?
Deciding whether to wait for the AirPods 4 depends on your current needs and how urgently you need new earbuds. If you’re content with your current earbuds and can wait, the AirPods 4 might offer enough improvements to justify the wait. However, if you need new earbuds now, the AirPods 3 is still an excellent choice with a great balance of features, sound quality, and battery life.
Wrap Up
In summary, both the AirPods 3 and the upcoming AirPods 4 have their merits. The AirPods 3 are a fantastic choice if you need new earbuds right away, with great sound quality, battery life, and comfort. However, if you can afford to wait, the AirPods 4 might bring new features and improvements that could make them worth the anticipation. Keep an eye on official announcements from Apple to make the best decision based on the latest information.
