The AirPods 4 and AirPods 3 share very similar dimensions, with only negligible size differences that most users won’t notice.
Unpacking the Dimensions: AirPods 4 vs AirPods 3
Apple’s AirPods have become a staple for wireless earbud users, blending sleek design with impressive functionality. The release of the AirPods 4 raised a common question among enthusiasts and potential buyers alike: Is Airpod 4 Same Size As Airpod 3? Understanding the physical size differences—or lack thereof—between these two models is crucial for anyone considering an upgrade or replacement.
Both generations maintain Apple’s signature minimalist aesthetic, focusing on comfort and portability. The AirPods 3, launched in late 2021, introduced a more contoured design compared to previous models. The AirPods 4, often referred to as the second generation of AirPods Pro or simply the next iteration, retain much of this form factor but come with some subtle refinements.
In terms of actual measurements, the height, width, and depth of each earbud are nearly identical. The differences are so minimal that they don’t affect fit or carrying convenience. This consistency means cases designed for one model won’t necessarily fit the other due to slight variations in charging case dimensions, but the earbuds themselves feel almost indistinguishable in hand or ear.
Detailed Size Comparison Table
| Specification | AirPods 3 Dimensions | AirPods 4 Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
| Height (Earbud) | 30.79 mm (1.21 inches) | 30.79 mm (1.21 inches) |
| Width (Earbud) | 18.26 mm (0.72 inches) | 18.26 mm (0.72 inches) |
| Depth (Earbud) | 19.21 mm (0.76 inches) | 19.21 mm (0.76 inches) |
| Weight (Each Earbud) | 4.28 grams | 4.28 grams |
| Charging Case Height | 46.40 mm (1.83 inches) | 47.00 mm (1.85 inches) |
| Charging Case Width | 54.40 mm (2.14 inches) | 54.40 mm (2.14 inches) |
| Charging Case Depth | 21.38 mm (0.84 inches) | 21.38 mm (0.84 inches) |
| Charging Case Weight | 40 grams | 41 grams |
The Subtle Differences That Matter
While the earbuds themselves are virtually identical in size and weight, the charging case shows a slight increase in height and weight for the AirPods 4 model—about half a millimeter taller and one gram heavier than the AirPods 3 case.
This small change can be attributed to internal hardware improvements like enhanced battery capacity or upgraded wireless charging components rather than any major design overhaul.
For users who carry their earbuds in pockets or small bags, this difference is negligible but worth noting if you’re particular about case dimensions or compatibility with accessories such as protective covers.
Moreover, Apple has subtly tweaked the stem length on some models to optimize microphone placement and noise cancellation features without altering overall size perception.
The Impact of Size on Comfort and Fit
Comfort is king when it comes to earbuds since users often wear them for hours at a stretch during calls, workouts, or commutes.
Because the physical size of both AirPods generations is so close, comfort levels remain consistent between them for most people.
The streamlined shape introduced with the third generation was designed to fit a wider range of ear shapes comfortably while improving sound delivery by positioning speakers closer to the ear canal.
The fourth generation maintains this ergonomic design philosophy without adding bulk or awkward angles that could cause discomfort.
Users switching between these two models typically report no difference in how they feel inside their ears—no pinching or looseness caused by size changes.
The Role of Ear Tips and Fit Options
Unlike earlier versions that lacked customizable tips, both AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 come with silicone tips that help create a better seal in your ear canal.
These tips vary slightly in size but don’t affect overall earbud dimensions significantly.
The availability of multiple tip sizes allows users to find a snug fit that enhances sound quality and passive noise isolation regardless of minor dimensional tweaks between generations.
The Design Evolution Beyond Size
Focusing solely on size overlooks other important design changes between these two generations that affect usability and experience.
For instance, although both models look similar at first glance, Apple improved water resistance in the fourth generation with an IPX4 rating, making them more suitable for sweaty workouts or rainy weather than their predecessors.
Additionally, subtle changes in button placement and sensor accuracy have made controls more intuitive without changing how big or small they feel physically.
The fourth generation also supports spatial audio features better thanks to updated internal components packed into roughly the same-sized housing.
The Charging Case: More Than Just Size
The charging case’s slightly increased height on the AirPods 4 hints at improved battery life or additional tech inside but doesn’t translate into bulkiness that would inconvenience users visually or practically.
Apple’s focus remains on keeping cases pocket-friendly while enhancing wireless charging speeds or connectivity stability behind the scenes.
Some users might notice a marginally firmer hinge mechanism on newer cases offering better durability over time without affecting portability due to size changes alone.
The Practical Takeaway: Is Airpod 4 Same Size As Airpod 3?
Answering this key question involves weighing minor dimensional data against real-world usage scenarios:
- Earbuds: Identical sizing means no change in fit or carrying comfort.
- Charging Cases: Slightly taller and heavier but still compact.
- User Experience: No perceptible difference in pocketability or handling.
- Accessory Compatibility: Cases differ enough that covers may not interchange; earbuds fit similarly sized tips across generations.
For most buyers focused purely on size concerns between these two iterations, there’s little cause for worry—both deliver near-identical physical profiles ensuring seamless transition if upgrading from one to another.
A Closer Look at Weight Differences and Their Effect
Weight plays an understated role when it comes to wireless earbuds since even tiny shifts can influence comfort during extended wear times.
Both generations weigh approximately 4.28 grams per earbud—a remarkably light figure contributing to fatigue-free listening sessions whether jogging around town or working from home all day long.
The charging case weight difference is just about one gram heavier for the newer model—a change so slight it won’t impact daily usage significantly but reflects incremental improvements inside rather than bulkier materials outside.
This meticulous balance Apple strikes between durability enhancements and maintaining featherlight feel highlights why many users find neither model intrusive nor cumbersome despite subtle tweaks under their shells.
The Material Quality Behind Dimensions
Both versions use high-quality glossy plastic shells resistant to scratches and fingerprints while maintaining lightweight profiles necessary for daily portability.
Apple’s precision manufacturing ensures tight tolerances so even tiny differences like half-millimeter changes don’t translate into clunky edges or uneven surfaces affecting user perception of size quality.
This craftsmanship preserves not just look but also tactile satisfaction when handling either set—something often overlooked when discussing raw dimension numbers alone.
The Role of Technology Integration Within Similar Sizes
Packing advanced tech into compact devices challenges engineers constantly balancing space constraints against feature upgrades without increasing device footprint noticeably.
Both models incorporate sensors like accelerometers, optical detectors for automatic play/pause functionality, force sensors for controls—all squeezed efficiently into nearly identical shells without compromising ergonomics or weight targets set by Apple’s design team years ago now proven successful worldwide.
This clever engineering explains why despite evolving chipsets supporting new features such as enhanced spatial audio processing or improved voice recognition capabilities introduced alongside AirPods 4 hardware updates, external sizes remain virtually unchanged compared to their immediate predecessor—the third generation model launched only months earlier at time of writing this comparison analysis.
A Practical Comparison Summary Table: Key Features & Sizes Side by Side
| AirPods 3rd Gen | AirPods 4th Gen | |
|---|---|---|
| Earbud Height | 30.79 mm / 1.21″ | 30.79 mm /1 .21″ |
| Earbud Width | 18 .26 mm /0 .72″ | 18 .26 mm /0 .72″ |
| Earbud Depth | 19 .21 mm /0 .76″ | 19 .21 mm /0 .76″ |
| Earbud Weight | 4 .28 g | 4 .28 g |
| Charging Case Height | 46 .40 mm /1 .83″ | 47 .00 mm /1 .85″ |
| Charging Case Width | 54 .40 mm /2 .14″ | 54 .40 mm /2 .14″ |
| Charging Case Depth | 21 .38 mm /0 .84″ | 21 .38 mm /0 .84″ |
| Charging Case Weight | 40 g | 41 g |
| Water Resistance Rating | ||
| Spatial Audio Support | ||
| Wireless Charging Support |
The short answer is yes—the earbuds themselves are effectively identical in size across both generations with no meaningful change impacting fit or comfort.
While there are minor increases in charging case height and weight reflecting internal upgrades rather than external redesigns, these differences remain subtle enough not to disrupt everyday use.
If you’re debating an upgrade based purely on physical dimensions between these two models, rest assured you won’t face surprises regarding bulkiness or pocketability.
Instead focus your decision on feature improvements like better water resistance, enhanced spatial audio capabilities, improved battery life potential through case tweaks—all packed neatly inside almost exactly sized shells.
Key Takeaways: Is Airpod 4 Same Size As Airpod 3?
➤ Airpod 4 has a slightly different design than Airpod 3.
➤ Both models have similar stem lengths and earbud sizes.
➤ Airpod 4 supports MagSafe charging, unlike Airpod 3.
➤ Fit and comfort remain consistent across both versions.
➤ Overall dimensions are close but not exactly the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Airpod 4 same size as Airpod 3 earbuds?
The AirPods 4 earbuds are virtually the same size as the AirPods 3. Both models share identical height, width, and depth measurements, making them nearly indistinguishable in hand or ear. Users will notice no significant difference in fit or comfort between the two.
Are there any size differences between Airpod 4 and Airpod 3 charging cases?
While the earbuds themselves are nearly identical, the AirPods 4 charging case is slightly taller and heavier than the AirPods 3 case. It is about half a millimeter taller and one gram heavier, due to internal hardware improvements like enhanced battery capacity.
Does the similarity in size mean Airpod 4 cases fit Airpod 3 earbuds?
The earbuds of both generations are almost identical in size, but charging cases are not interchangeable. Slight variations in case dimensions mean an AirPods 4 case may not properly fit or charge AirPods 3 earbuds, so using original cases for each model is recommended.
How do the dimensions of Airpod 4 compare to Airpod 3 for portability?
Both AirPods 4 and AirPods 3 maintain a compact and portable design with negligible differences in earbud size. The small increase in charging case height for the AirPods 4 does not significantly impact pocket or bag storage convenience for most users.
Why is it important to know if Airpod 4 is same size as Airpod 3?
Understanding if the AirPods 4 are the same size as the AirPods 3 helps buyers decide on upgrades and compatibility with accessories. Since earbuds are nearly identical, users can expect similar comfort, but case differences may affect accessory compatibility.