
Apple
Excellent

Nothing
Good
Apple AirPods 4 (ANC)
A significant step up from AirPods 3 with improved bass, clearer mids, and better spatial audio — though sealed earbuds still deliver more impact.
Nothing Ear (open)
Surprisingly capable audio for an open-ear design, with good clarity and a wider soundstage than sealed earbuds.
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Apple AirPods 4 (ANC)
The open-ear design with no silicone tips is the AirPods 4's biggest advantage — supremely comfortable for all-day wear.
Nothing Ear (open)
The open design delivers supreme comfort — nothing in your ear canal means zero fatigue even after hours of wear.
Apple AirPods 4 (ANC)
Battery life is adequate at 5 hours with ANC on, with the USB-C case providing additional charges.
Nothing Ear (open)
Excellent battery life for the category at 8 hours per charge.
Apple AirPods 4 (ANC)
At $179, they sit in a competitive sweet spot — more affordable than AirPods Pro 2 while offering ANC that base AirPods 4 lack.
Nothing Ear (open)
Competitively priced for the open-ear category with better build quality and design than most alternatives.