The AirPods Max are Apple’s premium over-ear wireless headphones, currently available in two main versions: the original 2020 Lightning model and the updated 2024 USB-C version, with prices typically ranging from $449 to $549 (£499 to £549). These headphones are defined by their high-fidelity audio, industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem through the H1 chip. The latest 2024 refresh introduced USB-C charging, lossless audio support via wired connection, and a new palette of colors including Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Orange, and Purple.
Design and Build Quality
The AirPods Max feature a distinct aesthetic that blends industrial design with luxury materials, utilizing a stainless steel headband frame and anodized aluminum ear cups. The “breathable knit mesh canopy” is engineered to distribute weight across the head to reduce pressure, while the telescopic arms allow for a precise, stay-in-place fit.
Unlike many plastic competitors, the AirPods Max weigh approximately 385 grams, making them significantly heavier than the Sony WH-1000XM5. However, the custom-designed mesh ear cushions use acoustically engineered memory foam to create a superior seal, which is critical for both passive noise isolation and the delivery of the immersive Spatial Audio experience.
Audio Technology and H1 Chip
At the core of the AirPods Max experience is the Apple H1 chip, located in each ear cup, which powers “computational audio.” This technology allows the headphones to perform 9 billion operations per second to adjust the Adaptive EQ, which tunes the low and mid-frequencies based on the specific fit and seal of the ear cushions.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
The system uses eight of the nine built-in microphones to continuously monitor environmental noise and cancel it out with anti-noise. This results in “Pro-level” cancellation that is particularly effective at silencing the low-frequency drone of airplane engines or the hum of an office.
Transparency Mode
By pressing the dedicated noise control button, users can switch to Transparency Mode, which lets outside sound in so you can interact naturally with your surroundings. It is widely considered the most natural-sounding transparency mode on the market, lacking the “hiss” or robotic processing found in cheaper alternatives.
The 2024 USB-C Refresh
In late 2024, Apple updated the AirPods Max to align with modern charging standards and audio requirements. The primary hardware change was the transition from Lightning to USB-C, which simplified the charging ecosystem for users with newer iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
Beyond the port change, the USB-C model introduced Wired Lossless Audio support. When connected via a compatible USB-C to USB-C cable, the headphones can bypass Bluetooth compression to deliver high-resolution audio from sources like Apple Music. This model also debuted five new colors: Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Orange, and Purple, replacing the original 2020 color lineup.
Spatial Audio and Dynamic Head Tracking
One of the most praised features of the AirPods Max is Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. This technology creates a theater-like experience for movies and music recorded in 5.1, 7.1, or Dolby Atmos.
Using built-in gyroscopes and accelerometers, the headphones track the movement of your head relative to your device (iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV). This ensures that even if you turn your head, the sound feels like it is coming from the screen, providing a consistent and immersive three-dimensional soundstage.
Practical Information and Buying Guide
When purchasing AirPods Max in 2026, it is important to understand the pricing tiers and what is included in the box.
Standard Price: The MSRP remains $549 / £549, though retailers like Amazon and Best Buy frequently offer discounts during sales events, bringing the price down to $450 – $480.
Battery Performance: You can expect up to 20 hours of listening time with ANC or Spatial Audio enabled. A quick 5-minute charge provides roughly 1.5 hours of playback.
Connectivity: While optimized for Apple (Bluetooth 5.0), they can function as standard Bluetooth headphones for Android and Windows, though you lose features like Automatic Switching and “Hey Siri.”
Smart Case: Included in the box, the case puts the headphones into an “ultra-low-power state” to preserve battery, as there is no physical power button on the device.
Maintenance: The ear cushions are magnetic and can be easily replaced if they become worn or dirty; official Apple replacements cost approximately $69 / £69.
FAQs
How do I turn off my AirPods Max?
There is no power button. To save battery, place them in the Smart Case, which triggers a low-power mode. If left out, they eventually enter a sleep state after a period of inactivity.
Are AirPods Max waterproof?
No, they do not have an official IP rating for water or sweat resistance. It is recommended to avoid using them in heavy rain or during intense workouts.
Does the USB-C version support lossless audio?
Yes, the USB-C model supports wired lossless audio when using a high-quality USB-C to USB-C cable connected to a compatible source.
How do I reset my AirPods Max?
Press and hold the Noise Control button and the Digital Crown simultaneously for 15 seconds until the status light on the bottom of the right ear cup flashes amber, then white.
Can I use AirPods Max with an Android phone?
Yes, they pair via Bluetooth. However, you will miss out on Automatic Switching, Ear Detection, and Spatial Audio customization.
What is the difference between the 2020 and 2024 models?
The 2024 model features a USB-C port (instead of Lightning), support for wired lossless audio, and new color options. The internal H1 chips and audio drivers remain identical.
Is the “condensation issue” fixed in 2026?
While Apple has not officially acknowledged a hardware change, users report fewer issues with the newer USB-C models, likely due to subtle manufacturing refinements in the ear cup seals.
How do I check the battery level?
On an iPhone or iPad, bring the headphones close and open the case, or check the Batteries Widget. You can also ask Siri, “How’s my battery?”
Do they work with a wired 3.5mm jack?
Yes, but you need a specific bidirectional cable (Lightning to 3.5mm or USB-C to 3.5mm depending on your model), which is usually sold separately.
Are the ear cushions washable?
Apple recommends cleaning them with a damp cloth and a small amount of liquid laundry detergent, then letting them air dry completely before reattaching.
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