EarFun Air Pro 4: Unmatched budget value, but microphone struggles in noise
Released 2024 · 31 sources analyzed · Also known as: EarFun Air Pro 4+, EarFun AirPro 4
EarFun Air Pro 4: High-res audio and ANC for less
The EarFun Air Pro 4, released in 2024, stands out in the budget earbud market by offering an impressive array of flagship-level features at a significantly lower cost. It caters to commuters and casual audiophiles seeking advanced audio technology, including high-resolution codecs and multipoint pairing. While it delivers exceptional value, its main trade-off involves minor compromises in call quality in noisy environments and occasional sensor inconsistencies.
EarFun Air Pro 4
Summary
The EarFun Air Pro 4 is a masterclass in value, offering flagship-level features like aptX Lossless, LDAC, and multipoint pairing for a fraction of the cost of premium competitors. Its robust ANC and highly customizable app experience make it a versatile choice for both commuters and casual audiophiles who want modern tech without the 'brand tax.' While call quality in noisy areas and occasional sensor glitches prevent a perfect score, the sheer performance-per-dollar is currently unmatched in the budget segment. It is an easy recommendation for anyone seeking a feature-packed daily driver under $100.
Pros
- The EarFun Air Pro 4 offers an industry-leading suite of high-resolution Bluetooth codecs including LDAC, aptX Lossless, and aptX Adaptive, ensuring audiophile-grade wireless transmission that is rarely found at this sub-$100 price point. This allows users with compatible Android devices to experience CD-quality audio without the typical compression artifacts of standard SBC or AAC codecs.
- Equipped with the advanced Qualcomm QCC3091 SoC and Bluetooth 5.4 (upgradable to 6.0 in the Plus model), these earbuds provide exceptionally stable multipoint connectivity for seamless switching between two devices. The inclusion of LE Audio and Auracast support future-proofs the investment, allowing users to tap into next-generation public broadcasting and shared audio experiences.
- The active noise cancellation (ANC) is remarkably potent for a budget-friendly device, effectively neutralizing low-frequency environmental drones like airplane engines or office HVAC systems. While it may not fully match the high-frequency isolation of flagship Sony or Bose models, it punches well above its weight class by offering multiple specialized ANC modes via the companion app.
- Battery performance and charging convenience are top-tier, featuring both rapid USB-C charging and Qi-certified wireless charging capabilities for the case. This versatility, combined with an IPX5 water-resistance rating, makes them an ideal daily driver for commuters and gym-goers who need a reliable pair of buds that won't die mid-workout.
- The EarFun Audio companion app provides a surprisingly deep level of customization, including a fully adjustable 10-band equalizer and the ability to remap touch controls. This allows users to correct the slightly recessed treble 'sparkle' noted by some reviewers and tailor the sound signature to their specific musical preferences.
Cons
- Microphone performance in loud environments remains a notable compromise, as the voice isolation technology can struggle to separate speech from heavy traffic or wind noise. While perfectly adequate for indoor Zoom calls or quiet streets, the 'grainy' output in chaotic settings makes them less than ideal for professional outdoor use.
- The charging case is slightly bulkier than competitors like the AirPods Pro or Samsung Galaxy Buds, which may make it less comfortable to carry in tight jeans pockets. While the extra size accommodates a larger battery and wireless charging coils, it sacrifices some of the ultra-portability found in sleeker rivals.
- The default sound signature features a powerful, rich bass that some purists may find slightly over-emphasized out of the box. Although this is easily fixed via the app's EQ, users who prefer a perfectly flat, analytical reference sound may find the initial tuning a bit too 'fun' or consumer-oriented.
Common Issues Reported
Sources
Should you buy it? Depends who you are.
A flat yes/no/maybe by buyer profile, instead of one universal verdict.
- Daily commuter seeking strong ANC✓Yes
Its effective ANC and IPX5 rating make it ideal for noisy commutes and gym use.
- Audiophile on a budget✓Yes
LDAC and aptX Lossless codecs offer high-resolution audio rarely found under $100.
- Professional needing clear outdoor calls✕No
Microphone performance in loud environments is a significant drawback.
- User prioritizing ultra-portable charging case?Maybe
The charging case is bulkier than some competitors, which might be an issue for tight pockets.
EarFun Air Pro 4: Weighing the Qualcomm QCC3091's trade-offs
The EarFun Air Pro 4 presents a compelling value proposition, delivering a suite of premium features typically found in much more expensive earbuds. Its inclusion of aptX Lossless, LDAC, and robust multipoint pairing makes it an ideal choice for users prioritizing high-fidelity audio and seamless device switching without the 'brand tax.' Commuters and gym-goers will appreciate its effective ANC, IPX5 water resistance, and versatile charging options, including Qi wireless charging. However, those who frequently make calls in very noisy outdoor environments or demand perfectly flat, analytical sound out of the box might find its microphone performance and default bass emphasis less than ideal. While occasional sensor glitches and multipoint inconsistencies have been reported, the EarFun Air Pro 4 remains an easy recommendation for anyone seeking a feature-packed daily driver under $100, especially considering its 2024 release year ensures modern connectivity and codec support.
AInalyzer Score Breakdown
Sub-scores are derived from the source analysis below. See our scoring methodology.
The EarFun Air Pro 4 excels with high-resolution codecs and strong ANC for its price point.
It delivers flagship features like aptX Lossless and multipoint connectivity at a budget-friendly cost.
Inconsistent in-ear detection and occasional multipoint glitches affect long-term reliability for some users.
The EarFun Air Pro 4 largely lives up to its feature claims, though microphone performance is a clear limitation.
What this analysis can miss
Specific caveats about the source coverage behind this page. Worth knowing before you act on the verdict.
Most reviews focused on initial release performance; long-term durability issues, like reported right earbud charging problems, may not be fully captured.
The analysis does not differentiate between the standard EarFun Air Pro 4 and the 'Plus' model's specific features, such as upgradable Bluetooth 6.0.
Microphone tests were predominantly subjective; no objective metrics for voice isolation in noisy environments were provided across sources.
What reviewers actually say
Themes synthesised across 31 sources — agreement % shows how aligned reviewers were on each point.
- Audio CodecsPositive100%
Reviewers universally praise the inclusion of LDAC, aptX Lossless, and aptX Adaptive for audiophile-grade wireless sound at this price.
- Active Noise CancellationPositive95%
The ANC is considered remarkably potent for a budget device, effectively neutralizing low-frequency noise, though not matching premium models for high frequencies.
- Microphone PerformanceNegative85%
Call quality in loud environments is a notable compromise, with voice isolation struggling against heavy traffic or wind noise.
- ConnectivityPositive90%
The Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint connectivity is generally stable, and LE Audio/Auracast support is seen as future-proofing.
- Sound SignatureMixed70%
The default sound has a rich, powerful bass that some find over-emphasized, though the app's EQ allows for easy customization.
Common questions about the EarFun Air Pro 4 earbuds
What advanced audio codecs does the EarFun Air Pro 4 support?
The EarFun Air Pro 4 supports an industry-leading suite of high-resolution Bluetooth codecs, including LDAC, aptX Lossless, and aptX Adaptive. This allows users with compatible Android devices to experience audiophile-grade wireless audio quality.
How effective is the active noise cancellation (ANC) on the EarFun Air Pro 4?
The active noise cancellation (ANC) on the EarFun Air Pro 4 is remarkably potent for a budget-friendly device, effectively neutralizing low-frequency environmental drones. It offers multiple specialized ANC modes via the companion app, punching well above its weight class despite not fully matching flagship models for high-frequency isolation.
Are there any known issues with the in-ear detection sensors on the EarFun Air Pro 4?
Yes, some users of the 4+ variant of the EarFun Air Pro 4 have reported inconsistencies with the in-ear detection sensors. These occasional glitches can lead to music pausing or ANC modes switching while the earbuds are still firmly seated.
Is the EarFun Air Pro 4 suitable for calls in noisy outdoor environments?
While perfectly adequate for indoor calls or quiet streets, the microphone performance of the EarFun Air Pro 4 in loud environments is a notable compromise. The voice isolation technology can struggle to separate speech from heavy traffic or wind noise, resulting in 'grainy' output.