AirPods 4 Earbuds
Open-fit TWS · 5h/30h · H2 chip · BT 5.3
MSRP
WF-1000XM5 Earbuds
In-ear TWS · ANC · 8h/24h · LDAC · BT 5.3
MSRP
Our verdict
The WF-1000XM5 Earbuds takes the performance lead with a 20% 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 Earbuds tells a compelling value story. At $130 versus the WF-1000XM5 Earbuds's $230 price tag, it costs 77% less while delivering performance that's only 20% 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 Earbuds is the smarter purchase. The WF-1000XM5 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
WF-1000XM5 Earbuds
20% faster overall
Best value for money
AirPods 4 Earbuds
8% better value per dollar
AirPods 4 Earbuds best for
Power efficiency
8% better value per dollar
Audio
Battery
Comfort
Connectivity
Noise Cancellation
Frequently asked questions
Is the WF-1000XM5 Earbuds worth $100 more than the AirPods 4 Earbuds?
It depends on your needs. The WF-1000XM5 Earbuds scores 84 overall vs 70 for the AirPods 4 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 Earbuds offers better value.
Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the AirPods 4 Earbuds or WF-1000XM5 Earbuds?
The WF-1000XM5 Earbuds delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The WF-1000XM5 Earbuds provides more headroom for ray tracing and future titles, while the AirPods 4 Earbuds still maintains smooth gameplay in current games.
Can the AirPods 4 Earbuds handle 4K gaming?
The AirPods 4 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 WF-1000XM5 Earbuds is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.
Which should I buy, the AirPods 4 Earbuds or WF-1000XM5 Earbuds?
Choose the AirPods 4 Earbuds if you want the best value for money and primarily game at 1080p or 1440p. Choose the WF-1000XM5 Earbuds if you need maximum performance, play at 4K, or do professional workloads like video editing and 3D rendering.
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