AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Wearable technology: Apple AirPods Pro (4th generation) vs. Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses

Quick Verdict

The Apple AirPods Pro (4th generation) are a solid choice for users seeking good audio quality, comfort, and seamless integration with Apple devices, especially at a competitive price point. The Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses, on the other hand, cater to users interested in combining fashion with technology, offering unique features like hands-free livestreaming and voice command functionality, but at a higher price.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeApple AirPods Pro (4th generation)Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses
Audio QualityNew acoustic architecture with a custom-designed, low-distortion driver and a high dynamic range amplifier, delivering deep bass and clear highs. Emphasize upper mids and treble. Very good for the price range, close to AirPods Pro 2 but slightly less clean and full.Temple-tip speakers with higher max volume, double the bass, and better directional audio. Immersive audio with a five-speaker setup. Clear audio for calls.
Noise Cancellation PerformanceAirPods 4 with ANC provide reliable noise cancellation for an open-ear design, cutting out a good amount of noise, but not as isolating as the AirPods Pro 2. Adaptive Audio combines Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode, adjusting noise control based on the environment.Microphone array effectively filters background sounds.
Comfort and FitRedesigned for exceptional all-day comfort and greater stability. Refined contour and shorter stem. Open-ear fit may be preferable. Some users find them about 60% more comfortable than AirPods Pro 2.Lightweight comfort. Available in two sizes (medium and large) and two classic silhouettes with various lens/frame combinations.
Battery LifeAirPods 4: Up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge. The case provides up to 30 hours of total listening time. AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation: Up to 4 hours of listening time with ANC enabled. The case extends total usage to 20 hours with ANC. 5-minute charge provides around 1 hour of listening time.Approximately 4-6 hours of active use on a full charge. Standby time extends to approximately 14-16 hours.
Charging Case FeaturesUSB-C charging capabilities, smaller than previous generations. Can be charged with an Apple Watch charger or Qi-certified charger. Includes a speaker for use with the Find My app.Sleek design, provides up to 32 hours of use. Fully charged in 3.5 hours using a USB-C cable. Provides up to 8 additional charges.
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.3 wireless technology. Pair instantly with Apple devices.Upgraded wireless connectivity with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.
Microphone QualityAdvanced computational audio and Voice Isolation to minimize background noise and clarify your voice during calls. Good microphone pickup with crisp and loud voice quality, even in noisy conditions.Five-microphone array for capturing audio-rich, immersive videos. Effective at picking up voice, even in noisy environments.
Smart FeaturesSiri can be activated by voice ('Hey Siri' or just 'Siri') or by pressing and holding the stem. Siri Interactions allow you to respond by nodding or shaking your head. A skin-detecting sensor plays audio only when the AirPods are worn.Meta AI conversational assistant activated by saying 'Hey Meta'. Voice commands for calls, texts, feature control, and finding answers. Hands-free livestreaming. Live translation for French, Italian, Spanish, and English.
Durability and Water ResistanceRated IP54 for dust, sweat, and water resistance. Can withstand rain and heavy workouts but are not suitable for water sports or swimming.IPX4 water resistance (protected from splashes of water).
Design and AestheticsRedesigned with a refined contour and shorter stem. Compact charging case.Combine wearable tech with authentic Ray-Ban design. Available in two classic silhouettes with over 150 lens and frame combinations.
AR/VR CapabilitiesNot availableNot available
PriceAirPods 4: $129. AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation: $179. AirPods Pro 2: $249.$299

Overall Comparison

Apple AirPods Pro (4th generation): Starting at $129, up to 5 hours battery life. Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses: $299, 4-6 hours battery life.

Pros and Cons

Apple AirPods Pro (4th generation)

Pros:
  • Good audio quality for the price
  • Reliable noise cancellation (AirPods 4 with ANC)
  • Exceptional all-day comfort and stability
  • Good microphone quality
  • IP54 dust, sweat, and water resistance
  • Instant pairing with Apple devices
  • USB-C charging
Cons:
  • Noise cancellation not as isolating as AirPods Pro 2
  • No specific AR/VR capabilities mentioned
  • Not suitable for water sports or swimming

Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses

Pros:
  • High-quality audio for calls
  • Effective noise cancellation
  • Lightweight and comfortable design
  • Convenient charging case
  • Hands-free livestreaming
  • Voice command functionality
Cons:
  • Bass response can be weak due to the open-ear design
  • Some users find they may pinch after longer periods
  • Battery life is limited to 4-6 hours of active use
  • AR/VR capabilities are not available

User Experiences and Feedback