I’ve spent a bit of time getting a feel for both the Cleer ARC 4 and ARC 4 Plus, and they land in that growing category of open-ear earbuds that prioritize awareness and comfort over isolation. If you’ve ever felt boxed in by traditional in-ear tips, these are the kind of earbuds that feel more like they’re hovering near your ears rather than plugging into them.
Both models share the same core idea: a hook-style design that wraps securely around your ears, leaving your ear canal open. That makes them particularly appealing for workouts, outdoor runs, or even just staying tuned into your surroundings while working from home. The fit is lightweight and stable, and in my brief use, they stayed put without needing constant adjustment.
First Impressions: Familiar Shape, Subtle Refinements
At a glance, the ARC 4 and ARC 4 Plus look nearly identical. Same general silhouette, same earhook approach, same open-ear positioning. But once you start poking around the details, the Plus version starts to separate itself in ways that feel intentional rather than flashy.
For those curious about open-ear audio, the ARC 4 offers an easy entry point, while the ARC 4 Plus adds a layer of polish and flexibility.
The standard ARC 4 feels like the “just right” version for most people. It’s straightforward, comfortable, and easy to live with. Pairing was quick, controls were responsive, and the overall experience felt predictable in a good way.
The ARC 4 Plus, on the other hand, feels like Cleer took that same foundation and added a few quality-of-life upgrades for people who want a bit more from their earbuds without jumping into a completely different category. We’re talking a bit more battery life, Dolby Atmos support, and 6-axis gesture control for playback.
Sound and Everyday Use
Open-ear audio always comes with trade-offs, and both models handle that balancing act about as well as you’d expect.
In my short time listening, the ARC 4 ($99) delivered clear mids and highs, which is where most podcasts, calls, and casual listening live. Music comes through cleanly, but you’re not getting the same low-end punch you’d expect from sealed earbuds. That’s just the nature of the design. The upside is you can still hear what’s happening around you, whether that’s traffic, conversations, or the occasional “hey, are you listening?”
The ARC 4 Plus ($130) felt a bit more refined in its presentation. It’s not night-and-day different, but there’s a sense of slightly fuller sound and better balance. It comes across as more polished, especially when switching between different types of content like music and spoken audio. That Dolby Atmos stuff can definitely be noticed in the right conditions.
Features That Start to Separate Them
Where things get more interesting is in the feature set, particularly with the ARC 4 Plus.
With the standard ARC 4, you’re getting the essentials done right. Solid battery life, stable connectivity, and a design that’s easy to wear for extended periods. It’s the kind of product that doesn’t try to overreach. You put them on, hit play, and go about your day.
The ARC 4 Plus adds a layer of “extra” that feels geared toward more active or tech-curious users. A few more hours out of the case can be worth the price alone when it comes to routine charging. And if you’re into a quality music excperience, you’ll appreciate that Dolby Atmos support.
Fit, Comfort, and Stability
Both models lean heavily into comfort, and that’s arguably their biggest strength.
The earhook design distributes weight evenly, so there’s no pressure inside the ear canal. After wearing them for a while, it’s easy to forget they’re even there. That’s especially noticeable if you’re used to traditional earbuds that can start to feel fatiguing over time.
Stability is solid across both. I moved around a bit, including some quick head movements and light activity, and they stayed locked in. These feel purpose-built for movement, not just sitting at a desk.
Choosing Between ARC 4 and ARC 4 Plus
This really comes down to how you plan to use them.
ARC 4
This feels like the everyday pick. If you want open-ear earbuds for casual listening, calls, and general use, this covers the basics without overcomplicating things. It’s the version you grab if you just want something reliable that fits into your routine without demanding attention.
ARC 4 Plus
This is the one for people who want a bit more interaction and flexibility. The upgraded battery life, gesture control support, and Dolby Atmos tech is certainly justifiable for the difference in price.
Early Takeaway
Both the ARC 4 and ARC 4 Plus lean into a style of listening that’s less about immersion and more about integration. They’re not trying to block out the world. They’re designed to coexist with it.
The ARC 4 keeps things simple and dependable. The ARC 4 Plus adds a layer of polish and convenience that makes it feel more premium without straying too far from the core concept.
If you’ve been curious about open-ear audio, either of these is a solid entry point. The choice just depends on whether you want something straightforward or something with a bit more personality baked in.
