The AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 cases differ slightly in size, with the AirPods 4 case being marginally larger and thicker.
Understanding the Dimensions of AirPods 3 and 4 Cases
Apple’s AirPods have evolved over the years, with each generation bringing subtle design tweaks. When comparing the AirPods 3 and AirPods 4, one common question arises: Is Airpod 3 And 4 The Same Size Case? While they look similar at a glance, the cases are not exactly identical in size.
The AirPods 3 case measures approximately 46.4mm in height, 54.4mm in width, and about 21.38mm in depth. It is compact and lightweight, designed to fit comfortably in pockets or bags without adding bulk.
On the other hand, the AirPods 4 case is slightly taller and thicker. Its dimensions come in around 48.5mm height, 56.3mm width, and roughly 22mm depth. These differences might seem minor but can affect compatibility with certain accessories like cases or wireless chargers designed for earlier models.
The extra thickness on the AirPods 4 case accommodates enhanced internal components such as improved battery capacity or updated charging hardware. This means if you try to use an AirPods 3 case cover on an AirPods 4 charging case, it might not fit perfectly due to these small dimensional changes.
Design Differences Impacting Case Size
Apple’s design philosophy focuses on sleekness without compromising functionality. The slight increase in size from AirPods 3 to AirPods 4 cases reflects this balance.
AirPods 3 introduced a contoured shape that was more rounded compared to previous generations. This design made the charging case more ergonomic and easier to carry around.
With AirPods 4, Apple refined this shape further but also added internal improvements such as better battery management systems and possibly new sensors for enhanced features like spatial audio or adaptive EQ tuning.
These internal upgrades require additional space inside the case, leading to a slightly larger footprint overall. The external design remains minimalist but these subtle size changes are noticeable when placing both cases side by side.
Comparing Weight and Portability
Size isn’t everything when it comes to portability; weight plays a crucial role too. Both cases are light enough for daily carry without causing discomfort.
The AirPods 3 case weighs approximately 38 grams, which is already featherlight for a wireless earbud charging case. Meanwhile, the AirPods 4 case tips the scale at about 42 grams – just a few grams heavier but still highly portable.
This slight weight increase corresponds with the larger size and upgraded internal components mentioned earlier. For most users, this difference is negligible during everyday use but worth noting if you prefer ultra-light accessories.
Charging Capabilities Affecting Case Size
Charging technology can influence how big or small a wireless earbud case needs to be. Both AirPods models support wireless charging via Qi-certified pads and fast charging through Lightning cables.
The AirPods 3 case supports MagSafe charging as well, which allows magnetic alignment on compatible chargers for better charging efficiency.
AirPods 4 continue this trend but reportedly include enhanced wireless charging circuitry that may require additional space inside the casing — contributing to its slightly increased thickness.
This means while both cases offer similar charging options, their internal layouts differ enough to impact external dimensions subtly.
Material Quality and Finish Differences
Both generations feature glossy white plastic exteriors that resist fingerprints fairly well but can still show smudges over time.
The finish on both cases feels premium with smooth edges and solid hinge mechanisms. However, Apple may have tweaked materials or coatings between versions to improve durability or tactile feel.
These minor material changes don’t drastically affect size but contribute to how users perceive each model’s build quality overall.
Compatibility With Accessories: Cases & Skins
One practical consequence of differing sizes is accessory compatibility. If you’ve invested in protective skins or silicone covers for your AirPods case, knowing whether they fit both models matters greatly.
Because of their near-identical shapes yet slight dimensional differences:
- AirPods 3-specific cases may feel tight or fail to close properly over an AirPods 4 case.
- Conversely, an accessory designed for the slightly bigger AirPods 4 might be loose on an AirPods 3 case.
- This can lead to accidental drops or reduced protection.
Before purchasing any third-party accessory claiming universal compatibility across these two generations, double-check product dimensions against official Apple specs or trusted reviews focusing on fit accuracy.
Table: Side-by-Side Comparison of Key Case Specs
| Specification | AirPods 3 Case | AirPods 4 Case |
|---|---|---|
| Height (mm) | 46.4 | 48.5 |
| Width (mm) | 54.4 | 56.3 |
| Depth (mm) | 21.38 | 22 |
| Weight (grams) | 38 | 42 |
| Charging Method | Lightning / Qi Wireless / MagSafe Compatible | Lightning / Qi Wireless / Enhanced MagSafe Charging |
| Material Finish | Glossy White Plastic | Slightly Refined Glossy White Plastic with Improved Durability Coating* |
| *Material improvements are based on user reports; Apple does not officially specify coating changes. | ||
The Impact of Size Differences on User Experience
Though subtle, these size variations influence how users interact with their devices daily:
Easier Pocket Fit:
The slightly smaller footprint of the AirPods 3 case makes it marginally easier to slip into tight pockets without discomfort or bulging outlines showing through clothing fabrics.
Lid Opening & Handling:
Some users report that the increased thickness of the AirPods 4 case gives it a sturdier feel when opening lids or holding during quick access moments.
Aesthetic Preferences:
Fans of minimalism might prefer the sleeker profile of the older model’s case while those valuing robustness lean towards newer iterations.
In short: neither is drastically better — just different enough that personal preferences may dictate which one feels right in hand or pocket throughout daily routines.
The Role of Internal Components Driving Size Changes
Apple never reveals every detail about internal hardware tweaks between generations but some educated guesses can be made based on visible features:
- Batteries: Newer models often pack slightly bigger batteries for longer playback times requiring more room inside.
- Sensors: Added sensors for spatial audio tracking or improved proximity detection need extra internal space.
- Circuitry: Enhanced wireless chips supporting faster data transfer rates occupy additional volume.
These enhancements justify why Apple opted for marginally bigger cases instead of cramming everything into identical shells risking overheating or reduced longevity.
Key Takeaways: Is Airpod 3 And 4 The Same Size Case?
➤ Airpod 3 and 4 cases differ in size.
➤ Airpod 4 case is slightly slimmer and taller.
➤ Charging compatibility varies between models.
➤ Design changes affect case dimensions.
➤ Cases are not interchangeable between Airpod 3 and 4.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Airpod 3 And 4 The Same Size Case?
The AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 cases are not the same size. The AirPods 4 case is slightly taller, wider, and thicker than the AirPods 3 case. These differences are small but noticeable when comparing the two side by side.
How Do The Dimensions Differ Between Airpod 3 And 4 Cases?
The AirPods 3 case measures about 46.4mm in height, 54.4mm in width, and 21.38mm in depth. Meanwhile, the AirPods 4 case is approximately 48.5mm tall, 56.3mm wide, and around 22mm deep, making it marginally larger overall.
Does The Size Difference Affect Case Compatibility For Airpod 3 And 4?
Yes, the size difference can affect compatibility. Accessories like protective covers or wireless chargers designed for the AirPods 3 case may not fit perfectly on the slightly larger AirPods 4 case due to its increased dimensions.
Why Is The Airpod 4 Case Larger Than The Airpod 3 Case?
The larger size of the AirPods 4 case accommodates internal upgrades such as improved battery capacity and updated charging hardware. These enhancements require extra space, leading to a thicker and slightly bigger charging case design.
Do Size Differences Impact Portability Between Airpod 3 And 4 Cases?
While the AirPods 4 case is a bit larger and heavier than the AirPods 3 case, both remain lightweight and easy to carry daily. The slight increase in size does not significantly affect portability or comfort during everyday use.