AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds
Open-fit TWS · ANC · 5h/30h · H2 chip · BT 5.3
MSRP
Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds
In-ear TWS · ANC · 8h/30h · Tensor A1 · BT 5.4
MSRP
Our verdict
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds takes the performance lead with a 8% higher overall score, driven by its more shader cores, more of memory, and higher TFLOPS of compute power. In gaming benchmarks at 1440p, it delivers roughly 0% more frames per second across demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Alan Wake 2.
However, the AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds tells a compelling value story. At $180 versus the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds's $230 price tag, it costs 28% less while delivering performance that's only 8% behind. Its of memory is still more than enough for 1440p and even 4K gaming in most titles.
Our recommendation: for the majority of gamers targeting 1440p or even 4K with upscaling enabled, the AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds is the smarter purchase. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds only makes sense if you need the absolute maximum performance for native 4K ray tracing, professional 3D rendering, or AI workloads where the extra VRAM and compute power provide a tangible advantage.
Performance winner
Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds
8% faster overall
Best value for money
AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds
0% better value per dollar
AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds best for
Value for money
0% better value per dollar
Audio
Battery
Comfort
Connectivity
Noise Cancellation
Frequently asked questions
Is the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds worth $50 more than the AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds?
It depends on your needs. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds scores 84 overall vs 78 for the AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds. If you need the extra performance for demanding tasks, the premium is justified. For most users gaming at 1440p or below, the AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds offers better value.
Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds or Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds?
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds provides more headroom for ray tracing and future titles, while the AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds still maintains smooth gameplay in current games.
Can the AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds handle 4K gaming?
The AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds can handle 4K gaming in less demanding titles and with upscaling technologies like DLSS or FSR. For native 4K at ultra settings in demanding games, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.
Which should I buy, the AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds or Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds?
Choose the AirPods 4 ANC Earbuds if you want the best value for money and primarily game at 1080p or 1440p. Choose the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds if you need maximum performance, play at 4K, or do professional workloads like video editing and 3D rendering.
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