Beats Studio Buds + vs Apple AirPods 4

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

For most buyers the Beats Studio Buds + is the better pick — it scores 63/100 to the Apple AirPods 4's 57, leading on Noise Cancelling. Choose the Apple AirPods 4 instead if audio and calls matter 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

Beats Studio Buds + leads overall

Beats Studio Buds +

Apple AirPods 4

Why it stands out

Battery Life per Charge: 6 h (20% more)

Winner by category for Beats Studio Buds + vs Apple AirPods 4
Category	Beats Studio Buds +	Apple AirPods 4	Winner
Audio	4	96	Apple AirPods 4
Noise Cancelling	96	4	Beats Studio Buds +
Battery	50	50	Tie
Connectivity	79	79	Tie
Calls	0	100	Apple AirPods 4
Build	56	74	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.

Beats Studio Buds +

The Beats Studio Buds + are true wireless noise-canceling earbuds released in May 2023, designed for users seeking broad compatibility across both Android and iOS devices. Powered by dual-layer 8.2mm drivers and Bluetooth 5.3, these earbuds offer Active Noise Cancelling and Transparency modes in a lightweight design. They deliver up to 6 hours of continuous battery life per charge, extending to 24 hours total when paired with the included charging case.

Best for Workouts and active use requiring an IPX4 splash resistance ratingBest for Daily commuting with active noise cancellation on iOS or Android devices

Pros

Active Noise Cancelling and Transparency modes for flexible listening environments
Lightweight build with IPX4 sweat and water resistance
Modern Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity for stable wireless pairing

Cons

Charging case does not support wireless charging
Lacks spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
Audio codec support is limited to standard SBC and AAC

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

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Beats Studio Buds +

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Apple AirPods 4

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Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

Beats Studio Buds +

49g

Weight

Apple AirPods 4

32.3g

Weight

Beats Studio Buds +

Weight

Apple AirPods 4

4.3g

Weight

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Audio

Feature	Beats Studio Buds +	Apple AirPods 4
Driver Type	Dual-layer	N/A
Driver Size	8.2 mm	N/A
Frequency Response	N/A	N/A
Spatial Audio with Head Tracking	No	Yes

Noise Cancelling

Feature	Beats Studio Buds +	Apple AirPods 4
Active Noise Cancelling	Yes	No
Transparency Mode	Yes	No

Battery

Feature	Beats Studio Buds +	Apple AirPods 4
Battery Life per Charge	6 h20% more	5 h
Total Battery Life with Case	24 h	30 h25% more
Quick Charge	Yes	Yes
Wireless Charging Case	No	No

Connectivity

Feature	Beats Studio Buds +	Apple AirPods 4
Bluetooth Version
Supported Codecs	SBC, AAC	N/A
Multipoint Connection	N/A	N/A

Calls

Feature	Beats Studio Buds +	Apple AirPods 4
Microphones per Earbud	N/A	3

Build

Feature	Beats Studio Buds +	Apple AirPods 4
IP Rating
Weight per Earbud	5 g	4.3 g14% less
Case Weight	49 g	32.3 g34% 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 Beats Studio Buds + vs Apple AirPods 4 comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Beats Studio Buds + rates higher at 65/100 versus 59/100 for Apple AirPods 4 — a 6-point lead. Beats Studio Buds + 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.

Beats Studio Buds + and Apple AirPods 4 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 65/100 for Beats Studio Buds + and 59/100 for Apple AirPods 4.

If you want the higher-rated earbuds option overall, Beats Studio Buds + (65/100) edges out Apple AirPods 4 (59/100). But if Apple AirPods 4 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.