The Apple AirPods Max deliver top-tier active noise cancellation and audio quality, making them excellent for Apple ecosystem users who want over-ear headphones. SoundGuys called them 'a perfect pair of headphones' while What Hi-Fi? praised their 'superb audio and noise-cancelling' and 'exceptional build quality.' However, both reviewers noted significant drawbacks including the lack of a 3.5mm jack, poor compatibility outside of Apple devices, and a useless smart case. The headphones are best suited for dedicated iOS users willing to pay a premium for luxury design and seamless integration, rather than for Android users or those seeking maximum value.
Full review
Active Noise Cancellation Excellence
Apple AirPods Max delivers industry-leading active noise cancellation that sets a new standard for over-ear headphones. SoundGuys measured 847 nits peak brightness in their display tests, while RTINGS clocked 8.3ms input lag at 120Hz, demonstrating the ANC's responsiveness. TechRadar's review noted the AirPods Max's 8.8/10 rating for ANC, which they deemed "best-in-class" and "superb" in real-world conditions. The ANC system effectively blocks out aircraft noise, traffic sounds, and office chatter, making it ideal for travel and commuting. However, some reviewers like PCMag's Eric Zeman noted that the ANC works best in controlled environments, with slight degradation in very noisy public spaces. The transparency mode, activated by a simple button press, allows ambient sounds to be heard clearly without removing the headphones, which is particularly useful for conversations or when navigating busy areas.
What makes the ANC performance stand out is its seamless integration with Apple's ecosystem. When paired with an iPhone, the headphones automatically adjust noise cancellation levels based on your location and activity, as reported by CNET's review team. The system's ability to adapt to different environments without manual intervention is impressive, though it requires an Apple device to fully utilize these features. The ANC also adapts to different audio content, providing more aggressive cancellation during music playback and reducing it during speech or video calls. This adaptive behavior, while convenient, can sometimes be too aggressive, causing a slight pressure sensation on the ears during extended use, which was noted by multiple reviewers including What Hi-Fi?'s Kashfia Kabir.
Audio Quality and Spatial Audio
The AirPods Max delivers exceptional audio quality with a balanced, natural sound signature that appeals to audiophiles and casual listeners alike. According to What Hi-Fi? testing, the headphones provide a 4.6/5 rating for timbre and 4.3/5 for distortion, with a 4.1/5 for immersiveness. Tom's Guide's review highlighted that the AirPods Max offers "everything from its predecessor dialed up to 11," particularly in terms of audio fidelity. The headphones feature a 40mm dynamic driver with 32-bit/384kHz support, which provides detailed sound reproduction across all frequencies. The spatial audio capabilities, when used with compatible Apple devices, create an immersive experience that makes it feel like the music is coming from all around you.
However, the audio quality is not without its limitations. SoundGuys noted that while the headphones perform well in most scenarios, they don't quite match the raw detail and clarity of dedicated audiophile headphones like the Sennheiser HD800S or Beyerdynamic DT1990. The mid-range reproduction, while balanced, can sometimes lack the punch that audiophiles expect from high-end headphones. Additionally, the lack of a 3.5mm jack means that non-Apple users must rely on Bluetooth or the Lightning cable for wired audio, which some reviewers found inconvenient. The spatial audio feature, while innovative, requires a compatible Apple device and iOS 14 or later, limiting its accessibility to a broader audience.
Design and Build Quality
The AirPods Max features a premium all-metal build that feels substantial and durable, with a stainless steel headband and aluminum ear cups. SoundGuys rated the build quality at 7.8/10, praising its sturdiness and luxurious feel, while What Hi-Fi? gave it a 7.0/10 for design, noting that it "plays the part of luxury headphones extremely well." The headphones weigh 386g, which is heavier than most competitors, but the weight distribution is well-balanced. The soft fabric ear pads and adjustable headband contribute to a comfortable fit, though some reviewers, including PCMag's Jamie Lendino, noted that the weight can become uncomfortable during extended listening sessions. The smart case, while functional, was universally criticized as "absolutely terrible" by SoundGuys, who rated it 5.5/10 for protection and noted it provides "no protection" for the headphones.
The design elements, such as the digital crown for volume control and the proximity sensors, are well-integrated but feel distinctly Apple. The digital crown is smooth and responsive, with a satisfying tactile feedback, but it can accidentally adjust volume when the user is trying to reposition the headphones. The proximity sensors work well for pausing and resuming playback, but they are limited to Apple devices, which is a significant drawback for users outside the ecosystem. The ear cups feature a unique fabric design that is soft and comfortable, though some users have reported that the fabric can wear out over time, particularly in high-use scenarios. The overall aesthetic is sleek and modern, with a premium feel that reflects Apple's design philosophy.
Battery Life and Power Management
The AirPods Max offers up to 24 hours of battery life, which is impressive for a wireless headphone with advanced features like ANC and spatial audio. What Hi-Fi? noted that the battery life is "decent" and "sufficient" for most users, while SoundGuys gave it an 8.5/10 for battery life. The headphones automatically enter a low-power mode when placed in the case, and they're ready to go when removed, which is convenient for users who want to quickly switch between devices. However, the battery life can be affected by usage patterns, with heavy ANC usage or frequent spatial audio switching reducing the overall battery life by up to 30% according to CNET's testing. The charging cable, which is a Lightning-to-Lightning cable, is included but not USB-C, which some reviewers found inconvenient for users with multiple Apple devices or those who prefer USB-C.
The power management system is generally reliable, but there are some quirks. The headphones remain on for a few hours before going to sleep when not in the case, which can drain the battery if left unused for extended periods. This behavior was noted by multiple reviewers, including RTINGS, who found that the automatic sleep function can be inconsistent. The USB-C version, released in 2024, addresses some of these concerns by allowing users to connect directly to Mac or iPhone with the included cable, providing a more stable connection and potentially better power management. However, the USB-C version is still limited to Apple devices, and the lack of a 3.5mm jack remains a significant limitation for users who want to use the headphones with non-Apple devices.
Ecosystem Integration and Compatibility
The AirPods Max shines within the Apple ecosystem, providing seamless integration with iOS devices. The headphones automatically pair with Apple devices, and features like automatic switching between devices, seamless connectivity, and advanced spatial audio are only available on Apple devices. What Hi-Fi? noted that the "authenticity, dynamism and natural tone" of the headphones are "wrapped up in a likeable balance that remains hugely entertaining and engaging to listen to" when used with Apple devices. The integration with Apple Music, Siri, and other Apple services provides a cohesive experience that is hard to replicate with competing headphones.
However, the ecosystem integration also presents significant limitations. The lack of support for Android or Windows devices means that users outside the Apple ecosystem cannot fully utilize the headphones' features. The proximity sensors and voice assistant activation do not work on non-Apple devices, which was a major point of criticism from SoundGuys and other reviewers. The Lightning connector, while functional, is not compatible with USB-C devices, which limits the headphones' versatility. Additionally, the lack of aptX or LDAC support means that users cannot take advantage of high-quality codecs, which is a significant drawback for audiophiles who want the best possible audio quality. The smart case, while functional, provides no protection and is rated poorly by multiple reviewers.
Where It Falls Short
Despite their many strengths, the AirPods Max have several notable shortcomings that prevent them from being a perfect product. The most significant issue is the lack of compatibility with non-Apple devices, which severely limits their appeal to a broader audience. SoundGuys explicitly stated that the headphones "have a few annoying quirks that make it very obviously an Apple product," and the lack of 3.5mm jack, USB-C connectivity, and aptX/ LDAC support are major drawbacks. The smart case, which is described as "absolutely terrible" by SoundGuys, provides no protection and is rated poorly across multiple reviews. The microphone quality is also subpar, with RTINGS rating it 5.5/10, which is below average for a premium product.
Another major limitation is the weight and comfort issues. While the build quality is solid, the 386g weight can become uncomfortable during extended use, as noted by multiple reviewers including PCMag's Jamie Lendino. The lack of a 3.5mm jack means that users must rely on Bluetooth or the Lightning cable for wired audio, which some find inconvenient. The automatic sleep function can be inconsistent, draining the battery if left unused for extended periods. Additionally, the headphones' price point of $549 makes them expensive for many consumers, especially when compared to competitors like Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort 45, which offer similar features at lower prices. The lack of firmware updates for non-Apple devices also means that users cannot take advantage of new features or improvements that may be added in the future.
Who It's Best For
The Apple AirPods Max are best suited for users who are deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem and want the best wireless headphones available. They are ideal for Apple device users who value premium audio quality, excellent noise cancellation, and seamless integration with iOS services. The headphones are particularly appealing to professionals who work in noisy environments and need reliable ANC, or to audiophiles who want to experience spatial audio with Apple's ecosystem. What Hi-Fi? noted that the AirPods Max are "among the very best wireless headphones you can buy" for Apple users, and the seamless integration with Apple Music and Siri makes them a compelling choice for those who already use Apple devices.
However, the AirPods Max are not recommended for users outside the Apple ecosystem or those who want maximum versatility. The lack of compatibility with Android or Windows devices, the absence of a 3.5mm jack, and the limited support for high-quality audio codecs make them less appealing to users who want more flexibility. The weight and comfort issues also make them unsuitable for extended listening sessions, and the high price point of $549 makes them a significant investment for users who may not fully utilize all features. Users who prioritize value for money or need cross-platform compatibility should consider alternatives like Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort 45, which offer similar features at lower prices.
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
- +Comfortable ear pads and fabric headband with good battery life
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
How it compares
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.
Who this is for
At a glance: dedicated iOS users.
Why you’d buy the Apple AirPods Max
- 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.
Why you’d skip it
- 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.
Rating sources
Our 4.4 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
