I first got my hands on the AirPods 2 back in 2022 and can still remember my first thought—‘second to none’—the moment I heard the deep bass. Now that the AirPods Max have been released, you might be wondering, as I am, if switching to headphones makes sense and how they compare to the AirPods Pro 2. The truth is, AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro 2 deliver drastically different experiences and suit users with different needs. Read on as I break down the differences to help you find the right fit.
AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro: Which One is Right For You?
From the get-go, let me tell you this—neither model is objectively better. Both AirPods are designed for users with different listening habits and needs. Here’s what I think might be the right fit for you:
Choose AirPods Max if:
- You want the best sound quality with immersive audio.
- Noise cancellation is a priority for you in any environment.
- You’re looking for a premium over-ear design.
- Longer battery life (20 hours) is important for extended use.
Choose AirPods Pro 2 if:
- Portability and convenience are important for on-the-go use.
- You need effective noise cancellation in compact earbuds.
- You prefer a lighter, more exercise-friendly design.
- You want seamless integration with Apple devices at a lower price.
Now, I’ll cover a generic comparison between AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro 2 with specific categories to help you decide.
Best Overall: AirPods 2
Both models have their strengths, but I think the AirPods Pro 2 work better for most situations. They’re compact, lightweight, and deliver great sound with excellent noise cancellation. The AirPods Max have some advanced features, but the Pro 2 offer solid performance and are convenient to use.
Best Budget-Friendly: AirPods Pro 2
The AirPods Pro 2 come in at a much lower price point of around $249 compared to the $549 AirPods Max. For those who want quality without breaking the bank, the Pro 2 offer impressive sound and features like active noise cancellation at a fraction of the cost. If you’re looking for value, these earbuds deliver excellent performance for everyday use.
Best Connectivity: AirPods Pro 2
Both the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Max connect easily with Apple devices, but they do have some connectivity issues at times. While switching between devices is usually simple, users have reported occasional connection drops in crowded areas or when moving between spaces. This can be annoying, especially during calls or while listening to music. Despite this, I’d still choose the Pro 2 for its portability and convenience.
Best for Sound Quality: AirPods Max
When it comes to sound, it really depends on what you like. The AirPods Max give you a richer, more immersive sound thanks to their over-ear design. But the AirPods Pro 2 stand out for their punchy bass and clear vocals. If you’re an audiophile but don’t want to break the bank, the Pro 2 might be your winner.
Best Battery Life: AirPods Max
Battery life is another key factor. The AirPods Max give you up to 20 hours of playback, so you can enjoy long sessions without needing to charge often. On the other hand, the AirPods Pro 2 last around 6 hours per charge, but their charging case adds a lot more listening time. If battery life is what matters most to you, the Max takes the lead.
Best Noise Cancellation: AirPods Max
Both models offer great noise cancellation, but the AirPods Max have a slight edge thanks to their closed-back design, which blocks out more outside noise. That said, many people are surprised by how well the Pro 2 perform in real-life situations, considering their design. Either way, both will help block out distractions when you’re surrounded by noise.
Best Portability: AirPods Pro 2
If you’re constantly on the move, the AirPods Pro 2 are clearly the winner here. Their compact size makes them easy to carry around, fitting snugly in pockets or small bags. The AirPods Max, while luxurious and comfortable for home use, can be cumbersome to transport due to their larger size.
For a technical, more detailed comparison, keep reading.
AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro 2: Detailed Breakdown of Features
Just to clarify: While I’ve used the AirPods Pro 2 for over two years and know all of its quirks and advantages inside and out, I haven’t tested the AirPods Max.
| Feature | AirPods Pro 2 | AirPods Max |
| Type | In-ear | Over-ear |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes (Adaptive ANC) | Yes (Active Noise Cancellation) |
| Transparency Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Chipset | H2 chip | H1 chip |
| Battery Life (Playback) | Up to 6 hours (ANC on) | Up to 20 hours (ANC on) |
| Charging Case | MagSafe, Lightning, or USB-C | No charging case (direct USB-C or Lightning) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Spatial Audio | Yes | Yes |
| Siri | Yes (hands-free) | Yes (hands-free) |
| Weight | 5.3g (each earbud) | 384.8g (headphones) |
| Design | Compact, portable | Premium, larger, not as portable |
| Price | $249 | $549 |
| Other Features | Adaptive Transparency, Precision Finding, Lossless Audio (via Apple Lossless) | Digital Crown, high-fidelity sound, mesh canopy for comfort |
Let’s break down two key differences that could influence your decision.
AirPods Pro vs AirPods Max: Design and Portability
The AirPods Pro 2 are small and light, so you can easily toss them in your bag or pocket. On the other hand, the AirPods Max are bulkier and feel more suited for staying put. So, when you’re out and about, I’d recommend grabbing the Pro 2s—they’re just easier to carry.
AirPods Pro vs AirPods Max: Sound Quality
The AirPods Pro 2 are great for genres like EDM and pop, with strong bass that keeps you energized. I haven’t used the AirPods Max, but based on what I’ve read, they provide a fuller sound, making them ideal for immersive listening sessions at home. While the Pro 2s offer clear and enjoyable sound for things like movie soundtracks, they also work perfectly for a quick jam session when I’m running errands.
2 Great Alternatives to AirPods Max and AirPods Pro 2
Here are two fantastic alternatives to the AirPods Max and AirPods Pro 2 that might fit your lifestyle even better.
1. Sky Infinity NC
Link to Product: Prelaunch
Price: $149.99 $79.99 (Pre-order now for 50% off)
The Sky Infinity NC is designed for travel, featuring two pairs of noise-canceling earbuds and a Bluetooth adapter that connects to any AUX-enabled audio source. You can use each pair for up to 8 hours, while the other stays charged for seamless swaps. It also offers hybrid ANC, Transparency Mode, aptX-Adaptive for lag-free audio, and crystal-clear calls with 6 built-in microphones.
Looking to discover more innovative products? Check out Prelaunch Marketplace for the latest projects and exclusive offers!
2. JBL Live 670NC
Link to Product: JBL Live 670NC
Price: £119.99
If you want solid sound quality without giving up on features, I think the JBL Live 670NC is worth a look. Its Active Noise Cancellation does a good job of blocking out distractions, and the battery life is impressive—up to 40 hours with ANC and 50 hours without. I like that you can customize the sound through the JBL app, and the lightweight design with soft ear cups makes it comfortable for longer use. Plus, with a price range of $84-129, it offers great value for what it delivers.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, the decision between the AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro 2 really depends on what matters most to you. If you’re after exceptional sound, noise cancellation, and longer listening sessions, the AirPods Max will be your go-to. But if you need something more portable, with solid noise-canceling features and great Apple integration, the AirPods Pro 2 offer a more convenient and budget-friendly option.