Specifications: Form factor: Over-ear, closed-back | Wireless protocol(s): Bluetooth 5.0 | Charging option(s): Lightning | Battery life: 20 hours (1.5 hours after 5 minutes of charging) | Feedback often: 10 Hz-20,000 Hz (estimated)
Before AirPods Max appeared, Apple’s small plastic earbuds were aimed at a very general audience. Apple AirPods Max are over-ear headphones with a mostly metal construction. They have a control scheme borrowed, quite unexpectedly, from the Apple Watch and a collection of internals that Apple believes will justify a price several times higher than the standard AirPods.
While the debate rages over whether wireless audio is worth considering, the AirPods Max have found a niche, vocal fan base. Many enthusiasts point out that AirPods Max combines exceptional sound with the same benefits that Apple device owners have enjoyed over the years in the AirPods line. This includes instant connection, multi-device switching, and the ability to adjust settings and view charge levels through another Apple device, including iPhone, iPad, etc.
Read reviews: AirPods Max Review
The AirPods Max is not without its haters, who often point to the weight, the widely rotated case (which our Jason Cipriani calls “a joke”), and the unusual control scheme. However, these complaints are largely drowned out by the chorus of relative praise for the sound quality. Some consider the AirPods Max not only the best of any Apple earphones available today, but also one of the best wireless earbuds of the time.
Combine this with ANC levels that meet or exceed what is currently offered by leaders like Sony and Bose, and you’ve got an entry that justifies its price tag to a number of users.
