I struggled for a while to convince myself I should pay the massive premium for the AirPods Max. I pulled the trigger and don't really regret it.
The major, major pro is they actually seamlessly switch from my MacBook to iPad to iPhone. Connectivity is very reliable. I recently switched from windows to Mac, and not sure that was the right call, but some of MacBook features maybe make up for the 30 years of windows familiarity. I say that because without a MacBook for daily work use, I'd have less conviction on the reason to spend so much on headphones. The switching is super valuable for teams/zooms on laptop and then phone calls, or listening to podcasts on laptop or tv shows on iPad then phone calls.
In terms of ease of use, they are super easy. Just put on your head and all your devices activate and are ready to use. They are also comfortable. Other headsets I've had issues at the top of my head with the crossbar becoming uncomfortable after a while, which isn't the case with these.
Sound quality is quite good. Is it worth the premium to other high end headphones like Bose or Sony that get rated high, I'm not sure. My guess is not really. The Spatial Audio is weird. I love the idea, but not sure it seems immersive when my eyes are looking at a 13" laptop or 11" iPad, though it's fun to play with and hear the sound exclusively in my left ear when I look right and vice versa.
Noise cancelling is very good. Again, worth the premium, probably not. Music is great to listen to, but while I have a decent ear for sound, I'm certainly not an audiophile.
Transparency mode is incredible. First few times I used it I was very impressed. Genuinely feels like you don't have headphones on. One subtle exception is on a plane. That's where you can tell it's done with microphones because when using it, the ambient noise can somewhat drown out the person you actually want to talk to. It can be better just to take it off one ear.
Color and styling are great, as you would expect from Apple.
It's probably stating the obvious, but all all attributes are significantly better than ear buds. I've had AirPod pros, Beats Studio and cheap ones and there just is no comparison. I fly almost weekly and also decided that the large form factor was worth it because I'm 99% confident I won't leave them behind, which I have done with buds. They also never fall off like buds.
It's quite possible I have an odd shaped head, but the buds never EVER work for phone calls unless I'm in a stationary quiet place. Outside or hotel lobby, forget it I have to use wired or the handset. So I'm done with them. Doesn't seem to be an issue with the AirpodMax. Though I can definitely say they are not 100% reliable when in movement in places like a dog walk or airport, where I've experienced issues being heard. Not as bad as the buds, but still frustrating given the price point.
| Headphones Jack | USB-C |
|---|---|
| Model Name | AirPods Max |
| Connectivity Technology | Wireless, Bluetooth, Wired |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
| Included Components | USB-C Charge Cable, Smart Case, Documentation, AirPods Max (USB‑C) |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Specific Uses For Product | Travel, Entertainment, Gaming |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Cycling, Calling, Recording, Exercising, Gaming |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphones, Tablets, Music Production Equipment, Laptops, Desktops |
| Control Type | Siri |
| Cable Feature | Without Cable |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Style | USB-C |
| Control Method | Touch, Voice |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Controller Type | Button, Siri |
| Battery Life | 20 Hours |
| UPC | 195949544033 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 30195949544034 |
| Manufacturer | Apple |
| Product Dimensions | 24.35 x 23.99 x 8.1 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.44 pounds |
| ASIN | B0DGJKT2X9 |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Item model number | MWW53AM/A |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) |
| Date First Available | September 9, 2024 |
