Nothing Ear (3) vs Apple AirPods 4

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

For most buyers the Nothing Ear (3) is the better pick — it scores 71/100 to the Apple AirPods 4's 54, leading on Noise Cancelling and Battery. Choose the Apple AirPods 4 instead if audio and build 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

Nothing Ear (3) leads overall

Nothing Ear (3)

Apple AirPods 4

Why it stands out

Battery Life per Charge: 5.5 h (10% more)

Winner by category for Nothing Ear (3) vs Apple AirPods 4
Category	Nothing Ear (3)	Apple AirPods 4	Winner
Audio	4	96	Apple AirPods 4
Noise Cancelling	96	4	Nothing Ear (3)
Battery	62	47	Nothing Ear (3)
Connectivity	98	68	Nothing Ear (3)
Calls	85	85	Tie
Build	58	77	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.

Nothing Ear (3)

The Nothing Ear (3) is a pair of true wireless earbuds designed for everyday media playback, hands-free calling, and portable audio. Built around Nothing's signature transparent aesthetic, these earbuds target listeners looking for a distinctive visual style combined with active noise cancellation. Companion software support allows users to adjust audio settings and control gestures to fit their personal preferences.

Best for Everyday audio listening and voice calls with custom sound personalizationBest for Users who prioritize eye-catching hardware design alongside active noise control

Pros

Distinctive transparent enclosure design offering a unique visual identity
Active noise cancellation to help lessen surrounding environmental sound
App-based equalizer options for tailoring audio playback profiles

Cons

Transparent polycarbonate exterior can be susceptible to surface scratches over long-term use
Pinch and touch control mechanisms may require an initial learning curve

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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Nothing Ear (3)

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Apple AirPods 4

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Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

Apple AirPods 4

32.3g

Weight

Nothing Ear (3)

5.2g

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	Nothing Ear (3)	Apple AirPods 4
Driver Type	Dynamic	N/A
Driver Size	12 mm	N/A
Frequency Response	20 Hz - 40,000 Hz	N/A
Spatial Audio with Head Tracking	No	Yes

Noise Cancelling

Feature	Nothing Ear (3)	Apple AirPods 4
Active Noise Cancelling	Yes	No
Transparency Mode	Yes	No

Battery

Feature	Nothing Ear (3)	Apple AirPods 4
Battery Life per Charge	5.5 h10% more	5 h
Total Battery Life with Case	22 h	30 h36% more
Quick Charge	Yes	Yes
Wireless Charging Case	Yes	No

Connectivity

Feature	Nothing Ear (3)	Apple AirPods 4
Bluetooth Version
Supported Codecs	SBC, AAC, LDAC	N/A
Multipoint Connection	Yes	N/A

Calls

Feature	Nothing Ear (3)	Apple AirPods 4
Microphones per Earbud	3	3

Build

Feature	Nothing Ear (3)	Apple AirPods 4
IP Rating
Weight per Earbud	5.2 g	4.3 g17% less
Case Weight	N/A	32.3 g

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 Nothing Ear (3) vs Apple AirPods 4 comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Nothing Ear (3) rates higher at 70/100 versus 57/100 for Apple AirPods 4 — a 13-point lead. Nothing Ear (3) 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.

Nothing Ear (3) 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 70/100 for Nothing Ear (3) and 57/100 for Apple AirPods 4.

If you want the higher-rated earbuds option overall, Nothing Ear (3) (70/100) edges out Apple AirPods 4 (57/100). 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.