Apple AirPods 4 vs Beats Solo Buds

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Apple AirPods 4 is the better pick — it scores 65/100 to the Beats Solo Buds's 46, leading on Audio and Noise Cancelling. Choose the Beats Solo Buds instead if battery matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Sound quality isn't scored yet (we have no measured audio data), so the score covers features, battery, noise cancelling and build.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Apple AirPods 4 leads overall

Apple AirPods 4

Beats Solo Buds

Why it stands out

Calls Microphones per Earbud: 3 (200% more)
Build Weight per Earbud: 4.3 g (25% less)

Winner by category for Apple AirPods 4 vs Beats Solo Buds
Category	Apple AirPods 4	Beats Solo Buds	Winner
Audio	100	0	Apple AirPods 4
Noise Cancelling	21	15	Apple AirPods 4
Battery	63	85	Beats Solo Buds
Connectivity	79	50	Apple AirPods 4
Calls	96	4	Apple AirPods 4
Build	78	71	Apple AirPods 4

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Apple AirPods 4

The Apple AirPods 4 are open-style wireless earbuds powered by Apple's H2 chip, featuring a slightly smaller physical footprint than previous generations. Apple offers two distinct versions: a standard base model priced at $129 and a step-up variant at $179 that introduces Active Noise Cancellation. These earbuds target users who prefer an unsealed, open-fit design while taking advantage of Apple's latest audio processing platform.

Best for Listeners who dislike silicone ear tips but still want active noise cancellationBest for iPhone users looking for an affordable modern entry point into the AirPods lineu

Pros

Equipped with Apple's powerful H2 chip for advanced audio processing
Active noise cancellation option available in an open-ear form factor
Base model launched at a lower price point ($129) than its direct predecessor
Slightly smaller and updated physical design for improved ergonomics

Cons

Active Noise Cancellation is restricted to the more expensive $179 model variant

Beats Solo Buds

The Beats Solo Buds are budget-friendly true wireless earbuds designed for extreme portability and extended continuous listening. Featuring Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and custom dual-layer drivers, they offer up to 18 hours of earbud battery life in a minimal 22-gram carrying case.

Best for All-day continuous listening without taking breaks to rechargeBest for Commuters who prefer a minimal pocket-sized carrying case

Pros

Impressive single-charge earbud battery life lasting up to 18 hours
Ultra-lightweight case weighing only 22 grams
Seamless one-touch pairing and location tracking for both iOS and Android devices
Fast Fuel charging gives 1 hour of playback from a 5-minute charge

Cons

Charging cable and wall adapter are not included in the box

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

Enter today's price for each product to see which offers better value. Use the same currency for both.

Apple AirPods 4

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Beats Solo Buds

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Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

Apple AirPods 4

32.3g

Weight

Beats Solo Buds

22g

Weight

Apple AirPods 4

4.3g

Weight

Beats Solo Buds

5.7g

Weight

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Audio

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Beats Solo Buds
Driver Type	N/A	Dynamic
Driver Size	N/A	8.2 mm
Frequency Response	N/A	N/A
Spatial Audio with Head Tracking	Yes	N/A

Noise Cancelling

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Beats Solo Buds
Active Noise Cancelling	No	No
Transparency Mode	No	N/A

Battery

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Beats Solo Buds
Battery Life per Charge	5 h	N/A
Total Battery Life with Case	30 h	N/A
Quick Charge	Yes	Yes
Wireless Charging Case	No	N/A

Connectivity

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Beats Solo Buds
Bluetooth Version
Supported Codecs	N/A	SBC, AAC
Multipoint Connection	N/A	No

Calls

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Beats Solo Buds
Microphones per Earbud	3200% more	1

Build

Feature	Apple AirPods 4	Beats Solo Buds
IP Rating		N/A
Weight per Earbud	4.3 g25% less	5.7 g
Case Weight	32.3 g	22 g32% less

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Apple AirPods 4 vs Beats Solo Buds comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple AirPods 4 rates higher at 59/100 versus 46/100 for Beats Solo Buds — a 13-point lead. Apple AirPods 4 is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.

Apple AirPods 4 and Beats Solo Buds are compared side by side above across every spec in the earbuds category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 59/100 for Apple AirPods 4 and 46/100 for Beats Solo Buds.

If you want the higher-rated earbuds option overall, Apple AirPods 4 (59/100) edges out Beats Solo Buds (46/100). But if Beats Solo Buds is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.