Apple AirPods 5 vs AirPods 4: ANC comes to both, but AirPods 5 lead on price and features

whathifi.com

Apple announced the AirPods 5 on September 11, 2026, with both variants now featuring active noise cancellation (ANC), a feature previously exclusive to the pricier AirPods 4 model. The AirPods 5 start at £119/$129/AU$219, undercutting the AirPods 4 launch prices, and offer improved IP57 dust and water resistance. Apple claims 50% more effective ANC and better sound, though battery life remains unchanged at 4-5 hours with ANC enabled. The AirPods 4 remain available from third-party retailers while stocks last, but the AirPods 5's aggressive pricing and added features like on-bud volume controls make them the more compelling choice, pending full reviews.


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