Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th GenFrom real comments

Verdict distilled from 30 mentions across 15 aspects in comments under product review videos.

Positive sentiment39%
PROS 39%
CONS 61%

Rank based on 30 mentions across 15 aspects

View the verdict as

Buy this if...

  • You want measurable audio performance and a modern mixer/loopback for under $400
  • You need separate headphone and line outputs 3-4 without compromise
  • You're upgrading from an older Gen 2/Gen 3 Scarlett and want current-gen preamps and UI

What users love

Skip this if...

  • You rely on low-impedance headphones and need a strong, clean headphone amp
  • Your computer only has standard USB-C ports without sufficient wattage for bus power
  • You want a physical power switch or dislike an always-on status LED

What users complain about

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Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen
Improved mixer with loopbackReturn of top-mounted buttons and clean LED layoutSmart gain and UI inspired by Audient EVOWeak/high-impedance headphone ampUSB-C bus power issuesHigher price than some competitors
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen
Improved mixer with loopback
Return of top-mounted buttons and clean LED layout
Smart gain and UI inspired by Audient EVO
Weak/high-impedance headphone amp
USB-C bus power issues
Higher price than some competitors

Who wins on what

Ranked by what users actually praise

Overall Impression

A clear technical upgrade over previous Scarletts, inspired visibly by Audient's EVO design. Multiple commenters note Focusrite finally moved past the 'more of the same' feel of Gen 2/3, citing improved smart gain, LED indicators, and a UI that closely mirrors Audient's EVO series. The returning top-mounted buttons and improved mixer with loopback and monitor/headphone switching presets were called out as welcome, overdue changes making the workflow feel more modern and flexible.

The headphone output remains the interface's most criticized weak point. Several users flagged the still-high output impedance (11 ohms, versus 50 ohms on the smaller 2i2/Solo) and a headphone amp many said 'doesn't sound great,' especially with low-impedance headphones where audible bass differences were reported. Comparisons to SSL2+, Apogee Boom, and Clarett+ suggest users feel Focusrite has yet to catch up to competitors here, despite other gains.

USB-C bus power and missing power switch caused real practical friction. Multiple commenters ran into power issues traced to USB-C ports not supplying enough wattage/amperage, requiring Thunderbolt-rated ports or external power, with one troubleshooting for hours before finding a fix. Others criticized the lack of a physical power switch at this price point, and one reported an always-lit ring light even when the computer is off, calling it a corner-cutting design choice.

Outdated / Not-accurate data?