AirPods 4 vs. Nothing Ear (A) vs. Beats Solo Buds: Which Wireless Earbuds Should You Choose?
Wireless earbuds have become everyday essentials, providing excellent sound and advanced features. This post compares three popular options: Nothing Ear (A) ($140), Beats Solo Buds ($150), and AirPods 4 ($235). Let’s see how they stack up!
Design and Build
Nothing Ear (A): These earbuds boast a sleek, transparent design that’s lightweight and ergonomic. With IP54 water and dust resistance, they’re built to last. The compact case supports USB-C and wireless charging, making them portable and convenient.
Beats Solo Buds: Known for their bold and sporty appearance, the Solo Buds feature an IPX4 rating for sweat and splash resistance. The USB-C charging case is compact but does not support wireless charging.
AirPods 4: AirPods 4 maintain Apple’s signature minimalist style. Their open-ear design is light and comfortable, but less secure for rigorous activities. The case supports USB-C, wireless charging, and even Apple Watch chargers.
Sound Quality
Nothing Ear (A): These earbuds emphasize balanced audio, offering crisp highs and rich mids. They feature customizable EQ settings, ensuring users can tweak the sound profile to their preference.
Beats Solo Buds: Focused on bass-heavy audio, Solo Buds are perfect for lovers of hip-hop and electronic music. While the sound stage is narrower, the bass output is deep and engaging.
AirPods 4: Designed for balanced sound, the AirPods 4 deliver clear mids and detailed highs. However, their open design may limit bass response, particularly in noisy settings.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Nothing Ear (A): Provides effective ANC with adjustable levels. Its Transparency Mode is decent but not as refined as the AirPods 4.
Beats Solo Buds: Offers strong ANC for everyday use but doesn’t match the clarity of AirPods 4. Transparency Mode works adequately.
AirPods 4: Feature advanced ANC technology with seamless transitions to Transparency Mode. They excel in adapting to noisy environments.
Battery Life
Nothing Ear (A): Delivers up to 6 hours of playback with ANC on, extending to 34 hours with the charging case. Wireless charging adds a layer of convenience.
Beats Solo Buds: Provide an impressive 8 hours of playback with ANC, and 24 hours with the case. Wireless charging is absent, but USB-C offers quick top-ups.
AirPods 4: Lasts about 6 hours with ANC active, and 30 hours with the case. They support multiple charging methods, including Apple Watch chargers.
Compatibility and Ecosystem Integration
Nothing Ear (A): Compatible with both iOS and Android, featuring dual-device pairing and a user-friendly app for sound customization.
Beats Solo Buds: Designed for Apple devices, but with good Android support through the Beats app. Features like Find My and one-touch pairing enhance usability.
AirPods 4: Offer the best experience for Apple users, including Spatial Audio, automatic device switching, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
Which One Should You Buy?
For Apple Ecosystem Users: AirPods 4 deliver premium features and integration, making them the top choice if you’re willing to spend more.
For Budget-Conscious Buyers: The Nothing Ear (A) offers excellent value with balanced sound, robust ANC, and wireless charging.
For Bass Enthusiasts: The Beats Solo Buds shine with their powerful bass and sporty design, ideal for workouts and casual listening.
Each of these earbuds serves different priorities—choose the one that fits your lifestyle!