Bose SoundSport, Wireless Earbuds, (Sweatproof Bluetooth Headphones
Score: 69/100
Apple AirPods 4
Score: 78/100$154.11
Rankings
The AirPods 4 deliver solid sound, excellent integration with Apple devices, and a comfortable fit, but they lack ANC and wireless charging. They are best suited for users deep in the Apple ecosystem who value spatial audio and fast charging.
The Bose SoundSport Wireless earbuds are neckband-style, sweat-proof earbuds designed for active users, offering balanced sound, a secure fit and quick charging, but they have modest battery life and lack ANC.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
6 hoursbest | 5 hours | |
9.1 mbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 22.68 gbest | 118 g |
12 monthsbest | 12 monthsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 22.68 g | 118 g |
IP Rating | IPX4 | IP54 |
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 6 hours | 5 hours |
Charging Port Type | Micro-USB | USB-C |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Macworld's Séamus Bellamy praised the SoundSport Wireless for their balanced, bass-enhanced sound, comfortable fit, situational awareness, and Tile tracking, while noting the bulky design, average 6-hour battery life, and lack of full waterproofing as drawbacks.
Everyday users commend the earbuds for staying in place during vigorous activity, the comfort of the StayHear+ tips, and the ability to hear surrounding traffic. Common complaints revolve around the weight, modest battery life, outdated Micro-USB port, occasional cable noise, and occasional Bluetooth dropouts.
“Balanced sound with extra bass keeps me motivated during runs.”
“The StayHear+ tips never fall out, even on intense workouts.”
“Quick charge is great, but I wish the battery lasted longer.”
Professional reviewers praise the sound quality that rivals the AirPods Pro, the comfort of the new contour, and the H2 chip's computational audio, while noting the missing ANC and limited appeal for non-Apple users.
Everyday users love the richer bass, clear call quality, secure fit during workouts, and immersive Spatial Audio, but complain about the lack of ANC, no wireless charging, and case durability.
