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Head-to-head · Best Over-ear Headphones

Apple AirPods Max vs Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Apple AirPods Max and Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X score essentially the same (4.4 vs 4.4). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Apple AirPods Max
Ranked #5 in Best Over-ear Headphones
Apple AirPods Max
6 sources$429.99as of Aug 1

Top-tier active noise cancellation and audio quality make the Apple AirPods Max an easy call for Apple ecosystem users who want over-ear headphones. SoundGuys called them 'a perfect pair of headphones,' and What Hi-Fi? praised their 'superb audio and noise-cancelling' and 'exceptional build quality.' Both also listed the drawbacks: no 3.5mm jack, poor compatibility outside Apple devices, and a smart case that does nothing useful. Dedicated iOS users willing to pay a premium for luxury design and tight integration are the fit, not Android users or anyone shopping on value.

Strengths
  • — Best-in-class active noise canceling (ANC) performance
  • — Superb audio quality with natural tone and cinematic spatial audio
  • — Exceptional build quality with sturdy all-metal construction
Watch-outs
  • — No 3.5mm headphone jack or USB-C audio cable included
  • — Proximity sensors and voice assistant activation do not work on Android or Windows
  • — Smart case provides no protection and is considered terrible by reviewers
$429.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X
Ranked #4 in Best Over-ear Headphones
Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X
7 sources$319.99as of Aug 1

Studio-grade accuracy is what the Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X is built for, with excellent detail and a balanced soundstage that suits audio producers and audiophiles. SoundGuys praised the heavy-duty construction and replaceable components, and What Hi-Fi? noted its musical articulation and how well it works with low-end devices. They are heavy, they don't travel well, and the premium price won't suit casual listeners or anyone who wants wireless convenience. This is a professional-grade tool for dedicated audio work rather than general consumer use.

Strengths
  • — Excellent detail and musical articulation with a balanced, accurate soundstage
  • — Robust build quality with replaceable parts including cables, padding, and internals
  • — Strong passive noise isolation suitable for recording and monitoring environments
Watch-outs
  • — High price point at $299 with limited portability and no waterproofing
  • — Heavier than average at 350g, and not suitable for commuting or travel use
$319.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

Apple AirPods Max

The Apple AirPods Max delivers best-in-class ANC and audio quality that surpasses the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless, but it's significantly more expensive than the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X. Unlike the Sony WH-1000XM5, it lacks IP rating and is incompatible with Android devices, while the Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X offers better value for professional audio work but lacks wireless convenience.

Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X

The Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X provides studio-grade audio accuracy and build quality that exceeds the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless and Apple AirPods Max, but it's significantly heavier and lacks wireless convenience compared to the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort 45. While it offers better sound quality than the Sony WH-1000XM5, it's more expensive and less portable, making it less suitable for casual users compared to the more affordable Sennheiser model.

Specs side-by-side

SpecApple AirPods MaxBeyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X
Weight386g350g
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.0Mini-XLR cable
Driver40mm dynamic45mm Stellar.45
ANCBest-in-classNone
Battery LifeUp to 24 hoursNone
Charging MethodLightningNone
Dimensions24.35 x 23.99 x 8.1 inches—
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