The EarFun Air Pro 4+ stands out in the crowded true wireless earbud market by combining cutting-edge audio technology with an accessible price point. At just $76, this flagship model from EarFun packs a hybrid dual-driver design featuring a 10mm dynamic driver and a balanced armature unit, delivering sound that rivals much more expensive alternatives.
One of the most notable features is its wide codec support, including aptX Lossless—a rare inclusion at this price tier. While compatibility with aptX Lossless was limited during testing due to smartphone constraints, the earbuds still impressed with LDAC and other high-fidelity codecs like LC3 with Auracast. This level of versatility ensures a consistent listening experience across different devices and settings.
Design-wise, the Air Pro 4+ maintains the sleek dual-tone aesthetic of its predecessor but introduces a redesigned case with a vertically opening hatch that adds both functionality and style. The earbuds themselves are slightly chunkier, which improves grip without sacrificing comfort. With an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance, they’re built to withstand everyday wear while maintaining durability.
Comfort is another strong suit, thanks to soft ear tips that minimize discomfort during extended use. Whether for long listening sessions or daily commutes, the Air Pro 4+ sits securely in the ear without causing fatigue—a common issue with many budget earbuds.
The software experience is straightforward and user-friendly, with the EarFun Audio app providing all the essential controls, including a new AI Translation feature. While this tool aims to replicate real-time language translation seen in higher-end models like the AirPods Pro 3, its performance remains sluggish and unreliable for practical use. It’s a promising addition that may see significant improvements in future updates.
Audio quality is where the Air Pro 4+ truly shines. EarFun has fine-tuned its signature Harman target curve, delivering balanced bass with weight but not excess, clear mids with strong vocal and instrumental separation, and precise treble that avoids shrillness. The result is a sound profile that works seamlessly across genres, from intricate classical pieces to dynamic pop tracks.
However, there’s a subtle nitpick: the timbre occasionally feels slightly nasal or metallic, a common trait in balanced armature units. While this doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment for most listeners, it’s a nuance that separates technically impressive audio from truly immersive soundscapes.
Microphone performance is decent in quiet environments, with clear voice pickup and reasonable background noise suppression. In noisier settings, the earbuds maintain intelligibility but at the cost of some vocal quality. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is present but underwhelming, offering better isolation in lower frequencies while leaving higher ranges largely unaffected. This means ambient sounds still intrude, making it less effective than competitors in this price range.
Transparency mode performs adequately, with the Default setting providing the best clarity, albeit with an unnatural sound signature. The Natural mode is quieter and feels muffled, adding to the frustration when switching between modes—especially since pulling out one earbud doesn’t automatically trigger transparency, unlike most modern earbuds.
Battery life claims 12 hours without ANC, but real-world testing revealed shorter durations, with LDAC and aptX Adaptive delivering around 6.5 to 8.25 hours. This discrepancy highlights the impact of codec choice on power consumption, a common issue in high-performance audio devices.
In conclusion, the EarFun Air Pro 4+ is a standout for audiophiles who prioritize sound quality over ancillary features like noise cancellation or battery life. It’s a product designed for those who appreciate the finer details of audio tuning and aren’t deterred by minor quirks in ANC performance. For $76, it offers a compelling balance of performance and affordability, making it a strong contender in the budget earbud market.
