
Apple AirPods Max 2 Over-Ear Headphones
Price history
Editor scores (0–10) — not a manufacturer spec.
| Type | Over-ear |
|---|---|
| Noise cancellation | ✓ Yes |
| Battery life | 20 hr |
| Bluetooth | — |
| Weight | 390 g |
| Water resistance | — |
| Mic included | ✓ Yes |
| Foldable | — |
Editor's take
Apple's flagship over-ear AirPods Max 2 claims up to 1.5x more ANC than the previous generation, lossless audio over USB-C, and Live Translation, at $499 (down from $549) with 975 reviews at 4.5 stars.
The headline upgrade this generation is noise cancellation strength: Apple claims up to 1.5x more ANC than the previous AirPods Max, tested per IEC 60268-24 (a real, citable test standard rather than a vague marketing claim). Adaptive Audio automatically adjusts ANC levels to your environment, and pressing the listening-mode button activates Apple Intelligence-powered Live Translation. A new USB-C lossless audio mode lets you hear the full detail of the original recording when wired, rather than relying on Bluetooth compression.
Build quality carries over Apple's acoustic-first design: a breathable knit-mesh canopy, memory foam ear cushions, and telescoping arms rather than a folding hinge mechanism — this is a headphone designed to sit flat via its included smart case rather than fold compactly. Amazon confirms a device weight of 0.39kg (390g), consistent with the AirPods Max line's reputation as a heavier over-ear design. Battery life is rated at 20 hours with ANC and Spatial Audio both active.
With 975 reviews at 4.5 stars, this has a solid, credible review base for a premium product. At $499, it's the second most expensive headphone product in this comparison, behind only true high-end over-ear rivals. Bluetooth version and driver size weren't published in this listing's spec table.
Pros
- Claimed up to 1.5x stronger ANC than the previous generation, tested per IEC 60268-24
- USB-C lossless audio mode for wired listening at full quality
- 975 reviews at 4.5 stars — a solid, credible rating for a premium product
- Apple Intelligence-powered Live Translation built in
Cons
- At $499, one of the most expensive products in this entire comparison
- At 390g, notably heavier than every earbud-style product in this batch
- Doesn't fold flat via a hinge — relies on the included smart case for storage
- No published Bluetooth version or driver size in this listing
Ideal for: iPhone users who want Apple's strongest ANC and premium over-ear build, and are willing to pay a flagship price for it.
Reviews
975 reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5 — a solid, credible rating for a premium product.


