The verdict
The Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is the pick for Apple-native listeners — CNET 8.9/10, SoundGuys 8/10. The H2 chip integration, lossless USB-C audio, and Spatial Audio with dynamic head-tracking are features Sony and Bose can't fully match on Apple devices. The weight, the weird no-power-off case, and the $549 premium are the reasons most reviewers place it behind the WH-1000XM6 overall. Worth it if you're deeply committed to Apple and listen primarily through Apple Music.
Strengths
- +USB-C port in the 2nd gen supports lossless 24-bit/48kHz audio when tethered to an Apple device or Mac
- +All-aluminum chassis with memory-foam canopy is the most premium build in this category
- +Tight integration with Apple ecosystem — instant pairing, Find My, Spatial Audio with head tracking, H2 chip
- +Best-in-class transparency mode for natural-sounding passthrough
- +Supports Personalized Spatial Audio with Apple Music
Watch-outs
- −No low-power sleep mode — the carrying case is the power button and it's infamously floppy
- −Heavy (385g) — the most fatigue-inducing of the four after 1-2 hours
- −Weak on multi-device outside the Apple ecosystem (no LDAC, limited multipoint for Windows/Android)
- −Most expensive in this list at $549 MSRP
Rating sources
Our 4.3 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
