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AirPods 5 vs AirPods 4: New Features and Price

9to5Mac •
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Apple today unveiled AirPods 5, available to order now starting at just $129, the new version of its entry-level AirPods. The biggest takeaway is that — among a sea of Apple price increases — the new AirPods are actually cheaper than ever, despite coming with Active Noise Cancellation as standard, and a few other niceties.

Active noise cancellation is now available on all AirPods 5 models. Customers previously had to spend $179 for AirPods 4 with noise cancellation included, but that is now standard. Apple says the quality of noise cancellation is up to 50 percent better compared to AirPods 4, using new algorithms and a new acoustic architecture.

Transparency mode is also improved, more naturally representing voices and nearby sounds. Sound quality is richer and more detailed, thanks to a new multiport acoustic system and next-generation Adaptive EQ. The AirPods 5 also boast an IP57 rating, up from IP54, for better water, dust, and sweat resistance.

All these features are included in the base AirPods 5 at $129, the same price as AirPods 4 but now with ANC. The upgraded model with Wireless Charging Case is $149, $30 less than the old higher-end option. It adds wireless charging, a speaker for Find My, and better battery life.