The AirPods 4 and AirPods 3 share very similar dimensions, with only minor size and weight differences that are barely noticeable in everyday use.
Comparing Dimensions: Are AirPods 4 The Same Size As AirPods 3?
Apple’s AirPods lineup has evolved steadily, with each generation bringing subtle changes in design, functionality, and performance. When the AirPods 4 were introduced, many users immediately wondered: Are AirPods 4 The Same Size As AirPods 3? This question is crucial for those considering upgrades or replacements, especially for fit and case compatibility.
In terms of physical size, the AirPods 4 (officially called the second-generation AirPods Pro) and the AirPods 3 (third generation standard model) are very close but not identical. The third-generation AirPods feature a stem design similar to the second generation but with a shorter stem than the originals. Meanwhile, the AirPods 4 have a more compact design influenced by the original Pro models but refined to be smaller.
The differences are subtle enough that they rarely affect user comfort or fit significantly. However, tiny variations in length, width, and weight can influence how they sit in your ear or fit inside charging cases.
Detailed Dimension Breakdown
Here’s an accurate comparison of their physical specifications to clarify these differences:
| Specification | AirPods 3 | AirPods 4 (AirPods Pro Gen 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Earbud Height | 30.79 mm (1.21 inches) | 30.9 mm (1.22 inches) |
| Earbud Width | 18.26 mm (0.72 inches) | 21.8 mm (0.86 inches) |
| Earbud Depth | 19.21 mm (0.76 inches) | 24 mm (0.94 inches) |
| Weight per Earbud | 4.28 grams | 5.1 grams |
| Charging Case Dimensions (Height x Width x Depth) | 46.40 x 54.40 x 21.38 mm | 48 x 60.6 x 21.7 mm |
| Charging Case Weight | 41.91 grams | 52.2 grams |
From this table, you can see that while the earbuds’ height is almost identical, the AirPods 4 are slightly wider and deeper due to their in-ear silicone tips and noise-canceling hardware components.
The Impact of Design Differences on Size Perception
The slight increase in width and depth of the AirPods 4 is primarily due to their active noise cancellation technology and customizable silicone ear tips, which add bulk compared to the open-fit design of the AirPods 3.
AirPods 3 use a universal hard plastic tip designed for a one-size-fits-most approach, making them feel lighter and less intrusive in the ear canal for many users.
On the other hand, AirPods 4 feature three sizes of soft silicone tips that create a seal inside your ear canal for better sound isolation and bass response but make them feel bulkier even if their overall length remains comparable.
This difference affects how users perceive size more than raw measurements do—AirPods 4 might feel slightly bigger or heavier due to this added depth and material.
The Charging Case: More Than Just a Storage Box?
The charging cases also differ noticeably in size between these two models:
- The AirPods 3 case is sleek and compact with smooth rounded edges.
- The AirPods 4 case is larger overall because it houses more advanced internal components like improved battery cells supporting longer playback time, enhanced Find My features with speakers for audible alerts, and MagSafe compatibility.
This means if you’re switching between these models, cases won’t be interchangeable despite earbuds being somewhat close in size.
User Experience: Fit and Comfort Considerations Between Models
Fit plays a huge role in how comfortable an earbud feels during long listening sessions or workouts.
Since Are AirPods 4 The Same Size As AirPods 3?, many users ask about comfort differences as well as physical size comparisons.
- AirPods 3 offer an open-fit design that rests just inside your ear without sealing off your ear canal completely.
- AirPods 4 provide an in-ear fit with silicone tips creating a snug seal inside your ear canal.
This fundamental difference means some people find one model more comfortable than the other depending on their ear shape:
- Those who dislike having something inserted deeply into their ears might prefer the lighter feel of AirPods 3.
- Users wanting better noise isolation or improved bass may lean towards AirPods 4 despite slightly increased bulk.
Both models have been praised for comfort by most reviewers but personal preferences vary widely here.
The Weight Factor & Long-Term Wearability
Although both earbuds are lightweight by industry standards, even small weight differences add up over hours of use:
- At approximately 5.1 grams, each AirPod Pro Gen 2 bud weighs about 0.8 grams heavier than its counterpart.
- This difference may seem trivial but can contribute to fatigue during extended wear for sensitive ears.
Still, Apple’s ergonomic designs ensure both remain comfortable enough for daily wear without causing discomfort or pain under normal conditions.
The Technical Reasons Behind Size Variations Between Generations
The slight size increase from AirPods 3 to AirPods 4 stems from several technical enhancements Apple integrated into its latest model:
- Noice Cancellation Technology: Active Noise Cancellation requires additional microphones and internal hardware inside each bud.
- Sensors: Advanced sensors such as skin-detect sensors and pressure equalization vents add complexity.
- Batteries: Improved battery cells designed for longer listening times demand more space.
- Eartip Mechanism: Silicone tips require extra housing structures to securely attach while maintaining water resistance.
- Sweat & Water Resistance: Enhanced IPX4 rating involves sealing components tightly within each bud’s casing.
All these factors contribute to making each bud slightly bigger without compromising overall comfort or aesthetics too much.
A Quick Look at Compatibility: Charging Cases & Accessories
A common concern when switching between generations is whether accessories like charging cases or ear tips can be shared across devices since sizes differ marginally but noticeably.
- Charging Cases: The charging case sizes differ enough that cases from one model won’t work properly with earbuds from another model.
- Ear Tips: Only compatible with respective models; silicone tips on AirPods Pro Gen 2 (AirPods 4) won’t fit on standard open-fit buds like those on the third generation.
- Wireless Charging: Both support wireless charging standards such as MagSafe but require their own specific cases.
This means if you upgrade from one generation to another expecting seamless accessory interchangeability based purely on size similarity might lead to disappointment.
The Verdict: Are AirPods 4 The Same Size As AirPods 3?
To sum it all up clearly:
No, the AirPods 4 are not exactly the same size as the AirPods 3.
They come very close in height but differ notably in width, depth, weight per earbud, and charging case dimensions due to design tweaks related to active noise cancellation features and ergonomic improvements.
However, these differences are subtle enough that most users won’t notice a drastic change during everyday use unless comparing side-by-side carefully or swapping accessories between models.
If you prioritize compactness above all else—especially if you dislike anything inserted deeply into your ears—the lighter open-fit design of the third generation might appeal more despite lacking ANC technology found in Gen two Pros (AirPods 4).
On the other hand, if superior sound quality combined with noise cancellation matters most—and you don’t mind slightly larger buds—the second-gen Pro earbuds represent a worthy upgrade despite minor size increases.
A Final Comparison Table For Quick Reference
| AirPods 3rd Generation | AirPods Pro Gen 2 (AirPods 4) | |
|---|---|---|
| Buds Height | 30.79 mm /1.21″ | 30.9 mm /1.22″ |
| Buds Width | 18.26 mm /0.72″ | 21.8 mm /0.86″ |
| Buds Depth | 19.21 mm /0.76″ | 24 mm /0.94″ |
| Buds Weight | 4.28 g each | 5.1 g each |
| Casing Dimensions (H x W x D) | 46 .40 x54 .40×21 .38mm | 48×60 .6×21 .7mm |
| Case Weight | 41 .91 g | 52 .20 g |
| Noise Cancellation Support | No | Yes |
| Ear Tip Type | Hard Plastic Open Fit | Silicone In-Ear Seal |
| Wireless Charging Case Support | Yes – MagSafe Compatible | Yes – MagSafe Compatible + Find My Speaker Alerts |
Key Takeaways: Are AirPods 4 The Same Size As AirPods 3?
➤ AirPods 4 have a slightly updated design compared to AirPods 3.
➤ Size differences between AirPods 4 and 3 are minimal and subtle.
➤ Comfort and fit remain largely consistent across both models.
➤ Charging cases for AirPods 4 may differ slightly in dimensions.
➤ Overall usability is similar despite minor size variations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are AirPods 4 the same size as AirPods 3 earbuds?
The AirPods 4 earbuds are very close in height to the AirPods 3, but they are slightly wider and deeper. This is mainly due to the AirPods 4’s in-ear silicone tips and noise-canceling hardware, which add some bulk compared to the open-fit design of the AirPods 3.
Are AirPods 4 charging cases the same size as AirPods 3 cases?
The charging case for AirPods 4 is a bit larger than that of the AirPods 3. The difference in dimensions and weight is noticeable, with the AirPods 4 case being taller, wider, and heavier due to accommodating additional features like MagSafe and wireless charging enhancements.
Are AirPods 4 the same size as AirPods 3 when worn?
While both models are designed for comfort, AirPods 4 feel slightly bulkier in the ear because of their silicone tips and noise cancellation components. However, these size differences rarely affect overall fit or comfort during everyday use for most users.
Are AirPods 4 and AirPods 3 interchangeable in terms of size compatibility?
The two models are not exactly interchangeable due to subtle size differences. For example, the silicone tips on AirPods 4 prevent direct tip swaps with the hard plastic tips on AirPods 3, and their charging cases differ enough that cases are not cross-compatible.
Are AirPods 4 considered bigger than AirPods 3 because of design changes?
Yes, the design changes in AirPods 4 make them slightly bigger than AirPods 3. The addition of active noise cancellation and customizable silicone tips adds width and depth, making them bulkier despite having nearly identical height measurements.