KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 8* — Fake AirPods are rampant on Malaysian social media, but Apple’s AirPods 4, now available in versions with and without active noise cancellation (ANC), remain the go-to choice for many. 

I’ve spent a week testing them, and while I’m not an audiophile, I find the sound quality decent for casual listening. The AirPods 4 offer noticeable improvements over previous models, particularly in bass, though the midrange and higher frequencies can vary.

The fit is better than before, although they may need occasional readjusting during workouts or hot days. Battery life is adequate, lasting around four hours, and features like Head Gestures and Personalised Spatial Audio add convenience. However, only the ANC model includes the Find My feature.

The ANC is surprisingly effective for an open-ear design but doesn't completely block out background noise, especially in noisier environments. 

Priced at RM599 for the non-ANC model and RM829 for the ANC version, the AirPods 4 are a solid option for Apple users seeking compatibility with their devices. However, considering the minor price difference, the AirPods Pro 2 may be a better choice for those prioritizing sound quality and battery life.