Wings of Enneagram 4: 4w3 vs 4w5 | Key Differences and How to Identify Yours

Trying to decide between Enneagram 4w3 (The Aristocrat) and 4w5 (The Bohemian)? It makes sense—they're both deeply creative, introspective, and emotionally rich, thanks to their core Type 4 foundation. But while they share those traits, their approach to the world, relationships, and self-expression couldn’t be more different. 

However, these two Enneagram wings have subtle yet important differences. For example, while 4w3s are more externally focused, seeking validation and success, 4w5s turn inward, prioritizing knowledge, self-exploration, and self-sufficiency.

In this article, we’ll help you identify which wing resonates with you most—because it can be challenging, especially if both wings are well-developed.

If you’re unfamiliar with the specific traits of each wing, it would help if you first read our in-depth articles on Enneagram 4w3 and Enneagram 4w5. Meanwhile, let’s keep the drumroll going and dive deeper into the differences between these two wing types.

Still not sure about your dominant Enneagram Type? Take our Enneagram Test to find out!

Enneagram 4w3 vs 4w5 Comparison Chart

Before exploring the similarities and differences between Type 4w3 and 4w5, let’s first get a clear picture of what sets them apart. The comparison chart below outlines their key traits, offering a concise understanding of how each wing adds its distinct influence to the core Type 4 personality.

While the differences between 4w3 and 4w5 are worth examining, it’s essential to recognize that these two wings share more similarities than differences. Their motivations, values, and behaviors often overlap due to their common Type 4 core. 

Let’s take a closer look at these shared traits to understand their intricate dynamic better.

Enneagram 4w3 vs 4w5: What Unites These Two Distinctive Wings?

At their core, 4w3 and 4w5 embody the depth, introspection, and individuality defining Type 4. Let’s dive deeper into these two wings’ similarities:

• Introversion: Both 4w3 and 4w5 wings are predominantly introverts, needing introspection and reflecting on their emotions, thoughts, and motivations. The only exception here might be an extroverted MBTI type, such as an ENFP 4w3 or ENFJ 4w5.
• Creativity: Both 4w3s and 4w5s have an active imagination and strong artistic expression, often leaning toward Holland’s Artistic personality type. 4w3s are more outwardly expressive through appearance, possessions, and achievements. In contrast, 4w5s tend to express themselves more inwardly through writing or other creative outlets.
• Uniqueness and authenticity: Both 4w3s and 4w5s crave authenticity and uniqueness. They don’t want to be like anyone else, nor do they want to conform to societal norms or expectations. This desire is why both are often drawn to alternative or unconventional lifestyles, beliefs, careers, and creative pursuits.
• Self-focus: Perhaps the most significant similarity between 4w3s and 4w5s is their tendency towards self-absorption and getting caught up in their bubbles. This trait can hold them back from overcoming obstacles and developing healthy relationships.

Enneagram 4w3 vs 4w5: How Can You Tell Them Apart?

Because 4w3s have an Enneagram 3 wing and 4w5s have an Enneagram 5 wing, they differ in how they present themselves and interact with the world. The differences can become even more prominent in times of stress versus growth phases, so it is paramount to understand the Enneagram Arrows and their impact. These are the main dissimilarities:

1. Levels of Introversion

For 4w3s, their 3 Wing balances their dominant introverted feeling and demands ambition and attention. They want to interact with others and be known. In other words, 4w3s are likely to be extroverted introverts (or ambiverts).

On the other hand, 4w5s’ introverted feeling is complemented by the introspective nature of their 5 Wing. They may shy away from social interactions and prefer to remain in their inner worlds, reading or engaging in hobbies to reduce stress.

2. Focus on Image vs. Inner World

Both Enneagram 4w3 and 4w5 seek authenticity. Yet, 4w3s tend to prioritize external validation and maintaining a desirable image, as many famous Type 4s do.

On the flip side, the 4w5s focus more on their inner world and personal growth. They may not care as much about how others perceive them or if they fit in with societal expectations.

3. 4w3 vs 4w5: Ambition vs. Information

4w3s are driven by ambition and success. They crave recognition and appreciation from others for their achievements.

For 4w5s, their 5 wing drives them to seek knowledge and understanding. They are curious and analytical, always seeking to learn more about themselves and the world around them.

4. Struggle with Emotions vs. Control of Emotions

4w3s’ desire for attention may lead to a heightened sensitivity to criticism or rejection. They may struggle to manage their emotions as they may need external validation to cope with their feelings.

4w5s are more likely to have greater control over their emotions due to their introspective and logical nature. They tend to analyze and process their feelings internally rather than seeking outside validation or comfort.

5. People-Pleasing Tendencies

The people-pleasing tendency is stronger for 4w3s. Here’s why. Typically, Type 3s like networking. So, they have to attract the very best. This tendency spills over into the 4w3 wing, making them more likely to adapt or adjust to fit others’ expectations.

Interestingly, 4w5s are less likely to display people-pleasing tendencies. Their focus on individuality and authenticity means they may be more resistant to adapting. They may even see this behavior as a betrayal of their true selves. They seek compatibility, not conformity.

6. Soft Power vs. Independence

4w3s use what is known as “soft power” to gain attention and admiration from others. They rely on charm and persuasion to get what they want.

4w5s, on the other hand, are a true definition of independence. How? Type 4 craves uniqueness, and Type 5 craves self-sufficiency. So, with this duo, they are very sovereign thinkers. They do not want to burden people with their issues—they want to have the capacity to handle them themselves.

7. Core Motivation

If you’re a 4w3, you are driven by a desire for recognition, admiration, and success. You always want to stand out and be known as special or exceptional.

And if you’re a 4w5, you are driven by a quest for self-knowledge, understanding, and personal growth. You always want to understand yourself fully and find meaning in your life.

Are You an Enneagram 4w3 or 4w5 Type?

If you’re unsure whether you relate more to 4w3 or 4w5, we designed questions and example responses that can help clarify your tendencies.

How do you typically express your individuality?

• 4w3: I want my uniqueness to be seen and appreciated by others. I often express it through how I dress or showcase my achievements.
• 4w5: My individuality is more internal. I focus on developing unique perspectives, deep knowledge, or creative work.

How do you respond to social expectations?

• 4w3: I am aware of social norms and may adapt to them while maintaining my distinctiveness.
• 4w5: I resist social expectations and prefer to operate outside the mainstream. I often feel like an outsider.

What motivates you in your personal and creative pursuits?

• 4w3: I want my work to be recognized and admired. Success, status, and influence are important to me.
• 4w5: I create for myself, valuing depth and originality over external approval.

How do you typically handle rejection or criticism?

• 4w3: It stings, but I may adapt or improve to win approval. I care about how I’m perceived.
• 4w5: I withdraw and analyze the criticism privately, sometimes becoming more detached or defensive.

How do you approach relationships and socializing?

• 4w3: I enjoy socializing and can be charming, but I also want to stand out and be admired.
• 4w5: I prefer deep, meaningful connections and may struggle with small talk or surface-level interactions.

What is more important to you: personal depth or external success?

• 4w3: I want both, but if I had to choose, I’d lean toward external success and making an impact.
• 4w5: Personal depth and knowledge matter more to me than public recognition.

How do you recharge when feeling drained?

• 4w3: I might seek validation to feel better.
• 4w5: I retreat into solitude, read, or immerse myself in deep thought.

When facing challenges, do you process them more through external action or internal reflection?

• 4w3: I channel my struggles into achieving something significant or expressing myself outwardly.
• 4w5: I retreat inward, analyzing my emotions and experiences before taking action.

What Do Your Answers Reveal?

If you resonated more with the 4w3 responses, you likely align with The Aristocrat—a creative, expressive individual who balances emotional depth with ambition. You seek recognition for your uniqueness and strive to leave a lasting impact through your artistry, style, or achievements.

If the 4w5 responses felt more familiar, you may connect with The Bohemian—a deeply introspective and intellectual type who prioritizes personal meaning over external success. You embrace solitude, unconventional ideas, and knowledge, often carving your own path outside societal expectations.

It’s natural to relate to aspects of both wings, but ask yourself: Do I desire external validation and influence (4w3), or do I focus on depth, independence, and intellectual pursuits (4w5)? Understanding your dominant wing can help you harness your strengths and embrace your personal growth journey.

Conclusion: 4w3 vs. 4w5

While both types share many similarities, their differences lie in their secondary wings and how they manifest certain traits. Understanding these differences can help you better identify your Enneagram type and discover more about yourself.

Remember, each individual is unique and complex, so don’t box yourself into one specific type.

Keep exploring and learning, and always be true to yourself. Now, go forth and embrace your wing! Enneagram is just one piece of the puzzle. If you want to understand your strengths, values, and career preferences, as well as ways you relate to others, check out our tests, such as Emotional Intelligence (EQ), the 16 Personality Test (MBTI), the Big Five, the Holland Career Interests Test, or Love Languages test. 

Cheers to personal growth and authenticity!