The AirPod 3 case is not the same as the AirPod 4 case; they differ in design, size, and charging features.
Understanding the Design Differences
The charging cases for AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 might look similar at a glance, but they are distinctly different in several key aspects. Apple refined the case design with the release of AirPods 4, focusing on usability and charging efficiency. The AirPods 3 case is slightly wider and taller compared to the more compact and rounded AirPods 4 case. This difference affects not only aesthetics but also how comfortably each fits in pockets or bags.
The hinge mechanism on both cases remains similar in function but differs slightly in build quality and feel. The AirPods 4 case introduces a sturdier hinge that feels more durable during repeated openings and closings. Moreover, the LED indicator placement has shifted between models, with the AirPods 4 case featuring a more prominent front-facing status light, making it easier to check charging status at a glance.
Size and Portability Comparison
Portability is a big selling point for wireless earbuds, so case size plays an important role. The AirPods 3 charging case measures approximately 53.5 mm tall by 44.3 mm wide and about 21.3 mm thick. In contrast, the AirPods 4 case is more compact at roughly 50 mm tall by 42 mm wide and thinner at around 19 mm thick.
This reduction in size means the AirPods 4 case slips into pockets more effortlessly without adding bulk. For many users who carry their earbuds all day, this subtle difference enhances comfort significantly. The weight difference between both cases is minimal but noticeable; the AirPods 4 case feels lighter due to its smaller volume and refined internal components.
Charging Capabilities: What Sets Them Apart?
Both cases support wireless charging via Qi-compatible chargers, but Apple enhanced charging features with the AirPods 4 case. The older AirPods 3 case supports standard Qi wireless charging and fast wired charging through a Lightning port.
The newer AirPods 4 case introduces MagSafe compatibility alongside Qi wireless charging. This magnetic alignment ensures the charger snaps perfectly into place, reducing misalignment issues that slow down or interrupt wireless charging sessions. MagSafe also supports faster wireless power transfer compared to traditional Qi chargers.
The Lightning port remains present on both cases for wired charging; however, Apple improved internal battery management on the AirPods 4 case to allow quicker recharge times and better battery health over prolonged use.
Material Quality and Durability
The build materials of these two cases share similarities but differ slightly in finish quality and durability enhancements. Both cases use glossy polycarbonate shells designed to resist scratches and minor impacts.
However, Apple upgraded the coating on the AirPods 4 case to be more fingerprint-resistant and less prone to surface scuffs over time. Users report that after months of daily handling, the older AirPods 3 cases tend to accumulate visible scratches faster than their newer counterparts.
Internally, subtle improvements were made in shock absorption within the AirPods 4 case’s construction to better protect earbuds during accidental drops or bumps. This upgrade boosts overall longevity without altering external appearance drastically.
Compatibility with Earbuds
One crucial factor when asking “Is Airpod 3 Case Same As 4?” lies in compatibility with earbuds themselves. The answer here is clear-cut: they are not interchangeable.
AirPods 3 earbuds fit snugly only inside their designated third-generation charging case due to precise internal molding tailored for their shape and size. Similarly, fourth-generation earbuds require their specific fourth-gen case for proper fitment and secure magnetic locking.
Attempting to use an AirPod 3 earbud with an AirPod 4 case (or vice versa) will result in loose fit or failure to charge properly because of mismatched internal contacts and shape differences inside each respective case.
Charging Time & Battery Life Comparison
Both generations offer impressive battery life when paired with their respective cases; however, there are slight improvements worth noting with generation four.
| Feature | AirPods 3 Case | AirPods 4 Case |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless Charging | Qi-compatible | Qi + MagSafe compatible |
| Wired Charging | Lightning port | Lightning port |
| Charging Time (Case) | About 1 hour | About 45 minutes |
| Earbud Playback Time | Up to 6 hours per charge | Up to 6 hours per charge |
| Total Battery Life | Up to ~30 hours (with case) | Up to ~30 hours (with case) |
The table above highlights that while playback times per earbud remain consistent across generations, the new MagSafe-enabled charging on the fourth-gen allows faster recharging of both earbuds and their cases overall.
Color Options & Aesthetic Updates
Apple has maintained its signature clean white finish across both models’ cases but introduced subtle aesthetic tweaks with generation four. The new model sports a slightly glossier finish with smoother edges around its perimeter compared to generation three’s slightly boxier look.
There have been no major color additions yet beyond classic white for either model’s standard release worldwide; however, rumors suggest Apple may expand colors or finishes in future releases based on market demands.
Price Point Differences Affecting Purchase Decisions
Retail prices for these two models vary due to feature upgrades found in generation four’s design enhancements like MagSafe compatibility and improved durability coatings.
At launch:
- AirPods 3 generally retailed around $179.
- AirPods Pro (considered “generation four” by some sources) retail closer to $249 due to active noise cancellation features which complicates direct price comparison purely based on cases alone.
For just replacement or standalone charging cases:
- The AirPods 3 replacement charging case costs roughly $79.
- The AirPods Pro (or generation four equivalent) replacement case runs about $99-$109 depending on region and retailer availability.
These price differences reflect upgraded tech inside newer models rather than just cosmetic changes alone.
How These Differences Affect User Experience
Even though both cases serve fundamentally identical purposes—charging earbuds while protecting them—the changes between generation three’s and four’s designs impact everyday usability noticeably:
- Smaller size makes carrying easier.
- MagSafe compatibility reduces frustration during wireless charge sessions.
- Improved durability means fewer scratches or damage over time.
- Enhanced hinge mechanism feels sturdier.
- Improved LED visibility means quick status checks without fiddling around.
Users upgrading from third-gen might find these refinements worthwhile despite no radical redesigns being present outright because convenience adds up over months of daily use.
Key Takeaways: Is Airpod 3 Case Same As 4?
➤ AirPod 3 and 4 cases differ in design.
➤ Charging compatibility varies between models.
➤ AirPod 4 case supports MagSafe charging.
➤ Dimensions of cases are not identical.
➤ Cases are not interchangeable between AirPod 3 and 4.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the AirPod 3 case the same size as the AirPod 4 case?
No, the AirPod 3 case is slightly larger than the AirPod 4 case. The AirPod 3 case measures about 53.5 mm tall by 44.3 mm wide, while the AirPod 4 case is more compact at roughly 50 mm tall by 42 mm wide, making it easier to carry.
Do the AirPod 3 and AirPod 4 cases have different designs?
Yes, they differ in design. The AirPod 4 case is more rounded and compact compared to the wider and taller AirPod 3 case. Apple also improved the hinge quality and LED indicator placement on the AirPod 4 case for better usability.
Can I use an AirPod 3 case for AirPods 4 earbuds?
The cases are not interchangeable due to differences in size and design. The AirPods 4 earbuds require their specific charging case, which is smaller and has enhanced features like MagSafe compatibility that the AirPods 3 case lacks.
What are the charging differences between AirPod 3 and AirPod 4 cases?
Both support Qi wireless charging and wired charging via Lightning port. However, the AirPods 4 case adds MagSafe compatibility, allowing magnetic alignment for faster and more reliable wireless charging compared to the standard Qi charger on the AirPods 3 case.
Does the weight of the AirPod cases differ between models?
The weight difference is minimal but noticeable. The smaller volume and refined internal components make the AirPods 4 case feel lighter than the slightly bulkier AirPods 3 case, enhancing portability for everyday use.