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AirPods Max: Apple introduces over-ear headphones
by Livia Gamper
Apple AirPods Max: our review roundup
30.12.2020
Translation: Patrik Stainbrook
Apple's first over-ear headphones have been available to order for a few days now. However, only a handful are even available. I've rounded up some reviews, then you can decide whether the headphones are worth it.
Many a consumer may get turned off by how much Apple's new headphones cost: 600 francs. That's quite steep when compared to similar over-ear headphones. This inevitably leads to the question of whether such expensive headphones are really worth it.
As I haven't been able to get my hands on the new over-ear headphones yet, I've summarised the data from other reviewers.
If you want to check out the specs for the AirPods Max, you can find them in the post below.
What the trade press thinks: What Hifi
According to What Hifi, the AirPods Pro Max justify their high price. The magazine writes that the headphones are better than the current competition and even cross the line from wireless audio to wireless hi-fi quality. The quality of the material is also praised, in comparison with the Sony WH-1000XM4 the price difference is said to be clearly apparent – the Sony headphones look almost cheap next to them according to What Hifi. Despite weighing in at a rather portly 385 grams, the Apple earpiece doesn't feel like a burden while being worn.
When it comes to noise cancelling, however, the magazine does rank the AirPods Pro Max similarly to the Sony WH-1000XM4. According to their verdict, Sony's headphones are slightly better at reducing constant, consistent noise. When it comes to sound, again, they find Sony's headphones can't keep up. What Hifi was thrilled by the crisp and spacious sound imaging and finds Apple's headphones to be more engaging and authentic than Sony's.
Techradar: the best-sounding headphones yet
Techradar also finds the AirPods Max to be one of the best-sounding headphones they've tested to date. Noise cancellation also rivals that of the Sony WH-1000XM4, according to writer Olivia Tambini. However, due to the high price, she only recommends the headphones to iOS users with a large budget to boot. For Android users, the high price isn't justified, as many functions only work on iOS. She also criticises the lack of a 3.5-mm audio jack. The case appears ineffective at best.
On the other hand, the author liked that the headphones are very comfortable and that Apple didn't use touch controls but physical ones. She describes pairing the headphones as incredibly easy, and she never had any disconnects.
The Verge: not for everyone, but top-notch
The Verge summed it up nicely: luxury sound at a luxury price. Author Chris Welch believes that the headphones aren't worthwhile for everyone, only for certain users. For the average headphone user, he doesn't recommend the AirPods Pro Max. He describes the comfort and feel as first-class, the sound as wonderful, and the soundstage as wider than Sony and Bose headphones.
Chris Welch also concludes that the noise cancellation can keep up with the best. For simplicity's sake, though, he wishes Apple hadn't done away with the power button – although the lack of one didn't put him at a disadvantage. Even when left in the case for several nights, the headphones barely lost any charge. On the other hand, he praises the simplicity of the headphones when pairing and the fact that with the latest macOS software update it's possible to switch automatically between an iPhone, iPad and Mac without having to do anything – listeners themselves notice on which device the music is playing. However, according to the author, the case is an abomination and a failure on every level.
And here's what you had to say!
A few of you have already been able to try Apple's new headphones. Your reviews are mixed, with an overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars as of December 30. You can find all user reviews on this page.
Verdict
The solid workmanship as well as the material quality of the headphones was praised amongst all reviewers. The sound quality convinced everyone and the active noise cancelling can also keep up with the competition according to many. The fact that the headphones don't have a power button doesn't seem to be a drawback. In contrast, the special case scores even worse across the board.
In short, the headphones aren't worth it for everyone. Mostly for Apple users with a high budget, rather than Android users or people with less money to spare.
Testing devices and gadgets is my thing. Some experiments lead to interesting insights, others to demolished phones. I’m hooked on series and can’t imagine life without Netflix. In summer, you’ll find me soaking up the sun by the lake or at a music festival.
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