{"id":1857111,"date":"2026-03-31T13:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-03-31T10:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1857111"},"modified":"2026-03-31T13:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-03-31T10:00:00","slug":"apple-airpods-max-2-review-better-late-than-never","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1857111","title":{"rendered":"Apple AirPods Max 2 review: Better late than never"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/Qfdth6hfonK_REglQMzuIQ&#8211;\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD02NzU-\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/apm2_1702.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article id=\"article-7e5cbde1-bb67-4c81-a63f-08992e9b0f4c\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-row justify-between md:px-10 md:max-w-[1220px]\">\n<div class=\"min-w-0 flex-1 self-start\" data-i13n-boundary=\"true\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<nav class=\"relative mx-4 mb-4 border-b pb-4 md:mx-0 md:mb-6 md:max-w-[750px] md:pb-6\" aria-label=\"breadcrumbs\">\n<ol class=\"no-scrollbar overflow-scroll whitespace-nowrap text-battleship\">\n<li class=\"inline\">\n<li class=\"inline-block cursor-default last:pr-10 md:last:pr-20 font-bold\">Audio<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-block cursor-default last:pr-10 md:last:pr-20 ml-2 before:mb-0.5 before:mr-3 before:inline-block before:size-2 before:rotate-45 before:border-r-2 before:border-t-2 before:border-battleship\">Headphones<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<div class=\"px-4 md:max-w-[750px] md:px-0 disclosure\">\n<div class=\"commerce\" data-pw=\"disclosure\">\n<div class=\"mb-7 flex items-center rounded-lg p-3 w-fit flex-col md:flex-row\">\n<div class=\"flex items-center self-start md:self-center mb-[10px] pb-[18px] md:mb-0 md:py-2 mr-3 border-b border-bob pr-1 dark:border-dolphin md:border-b-0 md:border-r md:pr-3 w-full border-batcave md:w-fit\"><span data-pw=\"disclosureLogo\" class=\"mr-2 size-5 md:size-6\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/os\/creatr-uploaded-images\/2023-09\/72819a70-4d9b-11ee-97ef-bc308af496e0\" alt=\"Engadget\"><\/span><span class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap lg:w-[86px] text-xs font-bold text-batcave dark:text-grey-hair md:text-sm\">Why you can trust us<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"mt-[10px] [&amp;_p]:text-[12px] [&amp;_p]:font-[400] [&amp;_p]:text-batcave text-[12px] text-battleship dark:text-gandalf md:text-[13px] [&amp;_a]:text-batcave [&amp;_a]:underline dark:[&amp;_a]:text-grey-hair\">\n<p>Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<header class=\"mb-4 px-4 md:mb-6 md:max-w-[750px] md:px-0\">\n<h1 class=\"layout-h1 my-2 font-bold leading-tight\">Apple AirPods Max 2 review: Better late than never<\/h1>\n<h2 class=\"rightrail-h2-subheadline my-2 text-[18px] font-light leading-5 md:text-[20px]\/[28px]\">Overdue updates bring Apple&#8217;s priciest AirPods on par with its best earbuds.<\/h2>\n<div class=\"flex-col items-start lg:flex lg:flex-row lg:items-center lg:justify-between mt-6\">\n<div class=\"relative md:mr-[10px]\">\n<div class=\"flex items-center\">\n<div class=\"flex mr-2\">\n<div class=\"shrink-0 cursor-pointer inline-block size-[42px]\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt role=\"img\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-full rounded-full object-cover object-center shadow-[0_0_0_2px_#ffffff]\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/pt8Z5R0Liu.6bOJJHjXoEw--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-\/https:\/\/o.aolcdn.com\/images\/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.yimg.com%252Fos%252Fcreatr-uploaded-images%252F2024-01%252F504fbf30-b0ca-11ee-abfb-8bff3fa28202%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3Df1c6b436967af299263c321739180c8916a40e01&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=fe9ea835d858a96570c1f2b8ea1067337e93b331\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-block\">\n<div class=\"w-max text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] font-semibold flex items-center\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-col\">\n<div class=\"flex w-max items-center\">Billy Steele<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"font-normal sm:before:inline-block\">Deputy editor, reviews<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"text-[0.75rem] text-dolphin dark:text-shark md:text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] lg:pt-[5px]\">\n<div class=\"inline-block\"><span class=\"mr-1 hidden lg:inline\">Updated<\/span><time datetime=\"2026-03-31T13:00:00.000Z\">Tue, March 31, 2026 at 1:00 PM UTC<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ml-0 mt-4 flex items-center lg:ml-3 lg:mt-0\">\n<div class=\"ml-0 mr-2\">\n<div class=\"relative flex\">Add Engadget on Google<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"mx-4 md:mx-0\">\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-[[fullbleed-start_body-start]_minmax(auto,750px)_[body-end_fullbleed-end]]\">\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative overflow-hidden fig-image-round \"><img decoding=\"async\" alt class=\"object-cover object-center\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/MnYrn3t1MSFdLvDuzfY5dg--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02OTk-\/https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/uu\/api\/res\/1.2\/1VgM7N6zqBUj0Lg9FtgWTw--~B\/aD0xNDQwO3c9MjU2MDthcHBpZD15dGFjaHlvbg--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/apm2_1702.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">Apple AirPods Max 2<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-article-mobile md:max-w-[750px] md:grid-cols-article\" data-article-body=\"true\">\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">I\u2019m honestly shocked the AirPods Max 2 even exists. After Apple only added a USB-C port and a few new colors to its over-ear headphones in 2024, I thought it had given up on delivering a proper upgrade to its priciest AirPods model. I\u2019m happy to report that wasn\u2019t the case.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">The AirPods Max 2 is certainly an updated version of Apple\u2019s headphones, but the company is also catching it up to the AirPods Pro 3. The headphones now carry the company\u2019s powerful H2 audio chip, the component that enables features like Adaptive Audio and Live Translation. The USB-C AirPods Max may have barely been an update, but the AirPods Max 2 is worthy of the new numeral in its name. The price is still $549, due in part to the fact that Apple\u2019s products are exempt from Trump\u2019s tariffs, yet these remain some of the most expensive headphones I\u2019ve reviewed. Are the AirPods Max still worth it?<\/p>\n<div class=\"commerce productModule [&amp;+.productModule]:mt-9 [&amp;+.productModule]:border-t [&amp;+.productModule]:border-dirty-seagull [&amp;+.productModule]:pt-2 [&amp;+:not(.productModule)]:mt-10 col-body\" id=\"1fbda0a2-bbb8-4a72-aa24-856a52bb1375\">\n<div class=\"mt-6 text-batcave @container\/p dark:text-grey-hair\">\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"relative mb-4 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-lg border border-grey-hair pb-[75%] @xl\/p:pb-[56.25%]\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Image for the large product module\" class=\"mx-auto my-0 size-full bg-white object-contain @xl\/p:transition-transform @xl\/p:duration-300 @xl\/p:ease-in-out @xl\/p:group-hover:scale-110 @xl\/p:motion-reduce:group-hover:transition-none\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/uu\/api\/res\/1.2\/pyc4x6n0Hv9HsZ948TGE8w--~B\/Zmk9c3RyaW07aD03MjA7dz0xMjgwO2FwcGlkPXl0YWNoeW9u\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/airpodsmax2-rec_3302.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"absolute -right-0.5 bottom-0 rounded-bl-none rounded-br-lg rounded-tl-lg rounded-tr-none bg-white\/90 px-3 py-2 text-[10px]\/3 text-battleship\">Apple\/Engadget<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mx-0 my-auto overflow-visible @xl\/p:grow\">\n<div class=\"commerce-score ml-4 mt-1 inline-block rounded-lg bg-white [box-shadow:0_4px_8px_0_rgb(0_0_0\/10%)] @xl\/p:ml-5 @xl\/p:mt-0 dark:bg-batcave float-right mb-3\">\n<div class=\"relative m-4 flex h-[77px] w-[62px] flex-col items-center justify-end gap-0.5 @xl\/p:h-[92px] @xl\/p:w-[72px] @xl\/p:gap-1\"><span class=\"commerce-score-val text-2xl\/7 @xl\/p:text-[32px]\/9\">87<\/span><span class=\"w-6 border-t border-solid border-t-battleship text-center text-xs\/5 text-battleship dark:border-t-bob dark:text-bob\">100<\/span><span class=\"whitespace-nowrap font-['Yahoo_Sans_Cond'] text-xs\/none font-medium text-battleship dark:text-bob\">Expert Score<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class>\n<h3 class=\"mb-1 text-xl\/[1.3] font-bold @xl\/p:text-2xl\/tight\">Apple AirPods Max 2<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"commerce-desc mt-2 space-y-6 text-base\/relaxed md:text-lg\/8 [&amp;_li]:ml-4 [&amp;_ol&gt;li]:list-decimal [&amp;_ol]:space-y-6 [&amp;_ul&gt;li]:list-disc [&amp;_ul]:space-y-6\">\n<p>The H2 chip delivers a host of new features, but it\u2019s time for a comprehensive redesign on these pricey headphones.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col rounded-lg bg-marshmallow p-5 @xl\/p:flex-row dark:bg-batcave clear-right mt-5\">\n<div class=\"flex-1 border-solid border-dirty-seagull dark:border-charcoal border-b @xl\/p:border-b-0 @xl\/p:border-r-2 mb-6 mr-0 pb-6 pr-0 @xl\/p:mb-0 @xl\/p:mr-4 @xl\/p:pb-0 @xl\/p:pr-4\"><span class=\"space-x-2 text-lg\/6 font-bold uppercase\"><span>Pros<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"mt-2 pl-6 leading-relaxed @xl\/p:text-lg\/[30px]\">\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Comfortable<\/li>\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Excellent sound quality<\/li>\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Lots of new features<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex-1\"><span class=\"space-x-2 text-lg\/6 font-bold uppercase\"><span>Cons<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"mt-2 pl-6 leading-relaxed @xl\/p:text-lg\/[30px]\">\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Same design, again<\/li>\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Expensive<\/li>\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Only one hearing health feature<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mt-5\">$549 at Apple<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"whats-new-on-the-airpods-max-2\">What\u2019s new on the AirPods Max 2?<\/h2>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">All of the AirPods Max 2\u2019s major new features are here thanks to the upgrade to the H2 chip. It was baffling that Apple didn\u2019t swap out the H1 when it made the switch to USB-C, choosing instead to saddle its pricey headphones with very outdated silicon for another 16 months. So, in a lot of ways, the AirPods Max 2 is a lot more about getting up to date with the rest of the lineup, which means a host of new tools await.<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_26gb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Thanks to the H2 chip, the AirPods Max 2 has Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation, Personalized Volume, Siri Interactions (head gestures) and Live Translation. Adaptive Audio blends active noise cancellation (ANC) with transparency mode and automatically adjusts the mix based on your surroundings. Conversation Awareness can tell when you\u2019re talking and automatically lowers the volume and enables transparency mode for quick chats.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Voice Isolation helps improve your voice quality for calls when the AirPods Max 2 is used with compatible apps on an iPhone, iPad or Mac, and I think we\u2019re all well-aware of what Live Translation is. Lastly, Personalized Volume takes notes on your listening preferences over time and applies automatic adjustments based on those and your surroundings.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Unsurprisingly, these features all work as well as they do on the AirPods Pro 3. Of course, there will be some that you use often and others that you might not touch at all. For me, I don\u2019t like contending with unwanted volume changes due to Conversation Awareness, so I turn that one off. It\u2019s not as easily triggered as Sony\u2019s version, but I did trick it with an unexpectedly loud burp. I also don\u2019t use the Siri head gestures, although they work very well. I frequently use Adaptive Audio around the house, which allows me to enable transparency mode to hear what I need to while letting the headphones apply ANC if I encounter unwanted noise. Voice Isolation is also a big improvement to normal voice performance and Live Translation is certainly nice to have.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Two additional H2 features that I do use often on the AirPods Pro, and will do so on the AirPods Max 2 because they work well here, are studio-quality audio recording and Camera Remote. The first is self-explanatory, but it does offer a boost to clips recorded in Voice Memos and the Camera app (my main two uses). Meanwhile, Camera Remote allows you to use the Digital Crown to take a photo or start\/stop a video recording without reaching for your iPhone.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"et-tu-hearing-health\">Et tu, hearing health?<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"The fabric ear pads on the AirPods Max 2\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/NJh12KdLr5daRo0iQ_RM_g--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6099_5947.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">The fabric ear pads on the AirPods Max 2<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Apple\u2019s hearing health features are some of the most important tools on the AirPods Pro. However, you won\u2019t find them on the AirPods Max 2, despite the new H2 chip. While the headphones do offer loud sound reduction, the hearing test, hearing aid and automatic conversation boost tools are absent. There are several reasons for this, the primary one being that the cushions on the over-ear headphones don\u2019t seal off your ears the way the AirPods Pro ear tips do.<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_2egb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Still, loud sound reduction isn\u2019t nothing. This prevents exposure to loud ambient noise while making adjustments to keep the audio sounding good. It\u2019s particularly useful when you encounter blaring construction sounds during a commute or similar inconveniences.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"design-more-of-the-same\">Design: More of the same<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"The Digital Crown and the listening mode control on the AirPods Max 2\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/Ed4meZ4IJ6nLS0d2vCCyww--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6063_9300.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">The Digital Crown and the listening mode control on the AirPods Max 2<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">One thing that hasn\u2019t changed on the AirPods Max 2 is the design. For better or worse, Apple has kept the same look that it debuted in 2020. Aside from new colors and the switch from Lightning to USB-C in 2024, there are no other visible differences between this version and the original. I would argue it\u2019s time for the company to change things up, but I can also understand why it hasn\u2019t.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">First, let\u2019s discuss what\u2019s great about the AirPods Max\u2019s design. It\u2019s unique, especially the mesh headband, solid aluminum ear cups and fabric ear pads. The punches of color are nice too, and if you prefer something more subtle, the black and gold, er\u2026 Midnight and Starlight options fit that bill. From the start, I\u2019ve loved the simple controls that are comprised of the Apple Watch\u2019s Digital Crown and the lone additional button for listening modes (a press and hold will activate Live Translation). The controls are in a great location, and it\u2019s so satisfying to spin the Digital Crown for volume adjustments.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">So, why hasn\u2019t Apple redesigned the outside of the AirPods Max? I\u2019d argue it doesn\u2019t think it needs to yet. The AirPods Pro is still largely the same as it has been from the first version, and the regular AirPods only got its first big design overhaul in 2024. The original AirPods debuted in 2016, so if Apple keeps a similar timeline for aesthetic changes to both the Pro and Max lines, we might not see those until 2027 and 2028 respectively.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"sound-quality-anc-and-calls\">Sound quality, ANC and calls<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Like before, the ear pads are replaceable on the AirPods Max 2\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/aGiQCiTNgYibS_a7YKdeXQ--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6044_8765.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">Like before, the ear pads are replaceable on the AirPods Max 2<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Besides the H2 chip, the other big upgrade to the AirPods Max\u2019s internal components is a new high dynamic range amplifier. This improves overall sound quality by allowing you to listen at higher volumes with low distortion and excellent clarity. Apple also overhauled the digital signal processing (DSP) for better bass response and to enhance the locations of instruments in the mix.<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_2ogb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Those tweaks don\u2019t equate to a huge leap in audio performance on the AirPods Max 2, but the gains are noticeable. Sound quality wasn\u2019t an issue before, but you can definitely hear the improved instrument localization and enhanced bass performance across nearly all genres. On Ruston Kelly\u2019s \u201cWaiting to Love You (Piano Version\/Live From Salt Lick Sessions),\u201d the singer\u2019s unique voice and the keys completely fill your head. It\u2019s like a barrage of balladry in the best way. You get the texture of the vocals, the reverb of the piano and all the dynamics of the stripped-down live performance.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Jump to something a bit more energetic, like aya\u2019s \u201cnavel gazer,\u201d and the AirPods Max 2 deftly manages the vocals, synths and whatever else is happening in the mix (seriously, it\u2019s a lot). And there\u2019s still the sonic deluge that <em>hexed! <\/em>hits you with. Even with the multi-genre mash-up metal of Bilmuri, these headphones keep the vocals, guitars, drums and subtle sounds separate. There are a lot of delicate details in the artist\u2019s latest tracks \u2014 like \u201cMore Than Hate,\u201d for example \u2014 and the AirPods Max 2 ensures you\u2019ll catch them all. A screeching eagle? Hell yeah, brother.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">While wireless listening remains excellent, the AirPods Max 2 still offers lossless audio over USB-C. If you opt for wired use, you can get up to 24-bit\/48kHz quality from compatible streaming services or locally stored files. This is the same functionality that Apple delivered in 2025. As expected, it still works well and provides enhanced listening when needed. Personally, I like to use it when I\u2019m sitting at my desk. What\u2019s more, the wired USB-C connection can be used for low-latency audio \u2014 which is great when you\u2019re playing a game or mixing\/editing audio projects. I should note the rest of the AirPods Max features (Siri, Adaptive Audio, etc.) still work over Bluetooth in wired mode, and there\u2019s also a low-latency Game Mode for wireless use with a Mac, iPhone or iPad.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">In terms of ANC, Apple says the H2 unlocks up to 1.5x stronger performance than the previous generation. The company combined the audio chip with new computational audio algorithms to reduce more external sounds \u2014 like airplane engines, trains and the roar of a coffee shop. That difference is certainly noticeable, as I found constant sources of noise around my house (fans, white noise machines, HVAC system, etc.) were much less apparent when I had the AirPods Max 2 on. Plus, Adaptive Audio uses the ANC system to pick up any changes and make the necessary adjustments to keep your music, podcast or movie coming through clearly.<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_2tgb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Every AirPods model that has ANC is also equipped with transparency mode. Since the debut of the first AirPods Pro, I\u2019ve been continually amazed by the natural sound of this feature. No other audio company comes close to matching the clarity of the ambient sound here, nearly making you forget you&#8217;re wearing earbuds or headphones. This has a tremendous impact on calls, as you can hear yourself very well, so you never feel the need to speak loudly. Plus, Voice Isolation combines the AirPods Max 2\u2019s H2 chip with an iPhone, iPad or Mac to further improve your voice and reduce background noise. Most headphones offer average voice performance at best, but like it has in the past, Apple actually delivers.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"battery-life\">Battery life<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"The Smart Case puts the AirPods Max 2 in an &quot;ultra-low-power state&quot;\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/yh4mJfpjvuqowV3Hxq1OEg--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6040_8139.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">The Smart Case puts the AirPods Max 2 in an &#8220;ultra-low-power state&#8221;<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_31gb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">One of the areas I was hoping for an additional boost on the AirPods Max 2 is battery life. Sadly, I was headed for disappointment. This model offers the same 20-hour longevity as its predecessors, a figure that includes ANC and\/or Spatial Audio. While it\u2019s certainly enough to get you through a couple of work days or a trans-Atlantic flight, that number falls well short of the 30-50 hours much of the over-ear competition can muster these days.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">I haven\u2019t had the AirPods Max 2 long enough to do a full battery test; I chose to focus on the new features instead. However, based on the performance that I\u2019ve seen so far, I have no reason to doubt Apple\u2019s claims here. The company has a solid track record on battery life, and all indications are that it continues on the AirPods Max 2. I\u2019ll update this review when this test is complete.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"the-competition\">The competition<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"The AirPods Max 2's mesh headband\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/.dy9jQrHqiSEpdCWWqOJfw--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6054_5396.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">The AirPods Max 2&#8217;s mesh headband<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">If you\u2019re thoroughly invested in Apple\u2019s ecosystem, the AirPods Max 2 is worth considering. Most of the features are reserved for the iOS, iPadOS and masOS faithful, so it doesn\u2019t really make sense for Android users or Windows devotees to splurge on the $549 headphones. If you\u2019re still balking at that price tag, Sony\u2019s WH-1000XM6 is my current top pick on our best headphones list. While those headphones are $460 at full price, you can currently find them for $400. Sony continues to mix great sound with capable ANC and a list of features few rivals can compete with. Plus, those handy tools are available to both iOS and Android users.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Bose\u2019s second-gen QuietComfort Ultra headphones are another solid option. They offer powerful ANC, great sound quality and excellent comfort for $449, but you can currently snag them for around $400. If noise cancellation performance is your primary concern, this is your pick. Lastly, if money is no object, a personal favorite is the Px8 S2 from Bowers &amp; Wilkins. They\u2019re pure luxury right down to the $799 price tag, and they exude grandeur. The company\u2019s combo of leather and aluminum screams high end and it made some design tweaks for this model to refresh the overall look. Battery life and sound quality are the big attractions here, but just know you\u2019ll have to forgo the advanced features much of the (more affordable) competition provides \u2014 like all of those H2-powered tools on the AirPods Max 2.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"wrap-up\">Wrap-up<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Apple AirPods Max 2 and the Smart Case\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/Kc2zumqMcE8pVzNq06RWRA--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6085_5301.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">Apple AirPods Max 2 and the Smart Case<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">The AirPods Max 2 is an obvious upgrade over the previous version. And no, I don\u2019t count the USB-C swap-in as a separate model. Simply put, the H2 chip brings Apple\u2019s over-ear headphones on par with the rest of the AirPods lineup, namely the AirPods Pro 3. And since I don\u2019t expect Apple to announce new earbuds this year, that parity should remain for a while.<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_3bgb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">These headphones are still expensive though, and the more affordable AirPods Pro offer handy hearing health features that are nice to have in your pocket. I could also understand why prospective buyers would want some design changes before making such a big investment. Sure, the AirPods Max 2 looks the same as its predecessor, possibly leaving those who own the previous version with a difficult decision to make. But Apple kept the price the same and brought better sound and more features, so there\u2019s no denying these headphones outperform the original.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"hidden flex-none md:block ml-8\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full flex-col flex-nowrap\">\n<div class=\"flex-auto\">\n<div class=\"sticky flex flex-none\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_sj7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mx-auto md:px-10 md:max-w-[1220px]\">\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-article-mobile md:max-w-[750px] md:grid-cols-article\">\n<div class=\"no-scrollbar col-body mx-4 mb-8 mt-2.5 overflow-x-scroll whitespace-nowrap md:mx-0 md:max-w-[750px] md:overflow-x-visible\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto max-w-screen-sm\">\n<ul class=\"inline-flex text-xs md:text-sm\">\n<li class=\"mr-6\">About our ads<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-article-mobile md:max-w-[750px] md:grid-cols-article\" data-article-body=\"true\">\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">I\u2019m honestly shocked the AirPods Max 2 even exists. After Apple only added a USB-C port and a few new colors to its over-ear headphones in 2024, I thought it had given up on delivering a proper upgrade to its priciest AirPods model. I\u2019m happy to report that wasn\u2019t the case.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">The AirPods Max 2 is certainly an updated version of Apple\u2019s headphones, but the company is also catching it up to the AirPods Pro 3. The headphones now carry the company\u2019s powerful H2 audio chip, the component that enables features like Adaptive Audio and Live Translation. The USB-C AirPods Max may have barely been an update, but the AirPods Max 2 is worthy of the new numeral in its name. The price is still $549, due in part to the fact that Apple\u2019s products are exempt from Trump\u2019s tariffs, yet these remain some of the most expensive headphones I\u2019ve reviewed. Are the AirPods Max still worth it?<\/p>\n<div class=\"commerce productModule [&amp;+.productModule]:mt-9 [&amp;+.productModule]:border-t [&amp;+.productModule]:border-dirty-seagull [&amp;+.productModule]:pt-2 [&amp;+:not(.productModule)]:mt-10 col-body\" id=\"1fbda0a2-bbb8-4a72-aa24-856a52bb1375\">\n<div class=\"mt-6 text-batcave @container\/p dark:text-grey-hair\">\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"relative mb-4 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-lg border border-grey-hair pb-[75%] @xl\/p:pb-[56.25%]\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Image for the large product module\" class=\"mx-auto my-0 size-full bg-white object-contain @xl\/p:transition-transform @xl\/p:duration-300 @xl\/p:ease-in-out @xl\/p:group-hover:scale-110 @xl\/p:motion-reduce:group-hover:transition-none\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/uu\/api\/res\/1.2\/pyc4x6n0Hv9HsZ948TGE8w--~B\/Zmk9c3RyaW07aD03MjA7dz0xMjgwO2FwcGlkPXl0YWNoeW9u\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/airpodsmax2-rec_3302.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"absolute -right-0.5 bottom-0 rounded-bl-none rounded-br-lg rounded-tl-lg rounded-tr-none bg-white\/90 px-3 py-2 text-[10px]\/3 text-battleship\">Apple\/Engadget<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mx-0 my-auto overflow-visible @xl\/p:grow\">\n<div class=\"commerce-score ml-4 mt-1 inline-block rounded-lg bg-white [box-shadow:0_4px_8px_0_rgb(0_0_0\/10%)] @xl\/p:ml-5 @xl\/p:mt-0 dark:bg-batcave float-right mb-3\">\n<div class=\"relative m-4 flex h-[77px] w-[62px] flex-col items-center justify-end gap-0.5 @xl\/p:h-[92px] @xl\/p:w-[72px] @xl\/p:gap-1\"><span class=\"commerce-score-val text-2xl\/7 @xl\/p:text-[32px]\/9\">87<\/span><span class=\"w-6 border-t border-solid border-t-battleship text-center text-xs\/5 text-battleship dark:border-t-bob dark:text-bob\">100<\/span><span class=\"whitespace-nowrap font-['Yahoo_Sans_Cond'] text-xs\/none font-medium text-battleship dark:text-bob\">Expert Score<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class>\n<h3 class=\"mb-1 text-xl\/[1.3] font-bold @xl\/p:text-2xl\/tight\">Apple AirPods Max 2<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"commerce-desc mt-2 space-y-6 text-base\/relaxed md:text-lg\/8 [&amp;_li]:ml-4 [&amp;_ol&gt;li]:list-decimal [&amp;_ol]:space-y-6 [&amp;_ul&gt;li]:list-disc [&amp;_ul]:space-y-6\">\n<p>The H2 chip delivers a host of new features, but it\u2019s time for a comprehensive redesign on these pricey headphones.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col rounded-lg bg-marshmallow p-5 @xl\/p:flex-row dark:bg-batcave clear-right mt-5\">\n<div class=\"flex-1 border-solid border-dirty-seagull dark:border-charcoal border-b @xl\/p:border-b-0 @xl\/p:border-r-2 mb-6 mr-0 pb-6 pr-0 @xl\/p:mb-0 @xl\/p:mr-4 @xl\/p:pb-0 @xl\/p:pr-4\"><span class=\"space-x-2 text-lg\/6 font-bold uppercase\"><span>Pros<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"mt-2 pl-6 leading-relaxed @xl\/p:text-lg\/[30px]\">\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Comfortable<\/li>\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Excellent sound quality<\/li>\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Lots of new features<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex-1\"><span class=\"space-x-2 text-lg\/6 font-bold uppercase\"><span>Cons<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"mt-2 pl-6 leading-relaxed @xl\/p:text-lg\/[30px]\">\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Same design, again<\/li>\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Expensive<\/li>\n<li class=\"list-disc\">Only one hearing health feature<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mt-5\">$549 at Apple<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"whats-new-on-the-airpods-max-2\">What\u2019s new on the AirPods Max 2?<\/h2>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">All of the AirPods Max 2\u2019s major new features are here thanks to the upgrade to the H2 chip. It was baffling that Apple didn\u2019t swap out the H1 when it made the switch to USB-C, choosing instead to saddle its pricey headphones with very outdated silicon for another 16 months. So, in a lot of ways, the AirPods Max 2 is a lot more about getting up to date with the rest of the lineup, which means a host of new tools await.<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_26gb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Thanks to the H2 chip, the AirPods Max 2 has Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation, Personalized Volume, Siri Interactions (head gestures) and Live Translation. Adaptive Audio blends active noise cancellation (ANC) with transparency mode and automatically adjusts the mix based on your surroundings. Conversation Awareness can tell when you\u2019re talking and automatically lowers the volume and enables transparency mode for quick chats.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Voice Isolation helps improve your voice quality for calls when the AirPods Max 2 is used with compatible apps on an iPhone, iPad or Mac, and I think we\u2019re all well-aware of what Live Translation is. Lastly, Personalized Volume takes notes on your listening preferences over time and applies automatic adjustments based on those and your surroundings.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Unsurprisingly, these features all work as well as they do on the AirPods Pro 3. Of course, there will be some that you use often and others that you might not touch at all. For me, I don\u2019t like contending with unwanted volume changes due to Conversation Awareness, so I turn that one off. It\u2019s not as easily triggered as Sony\u2019s version, but I did trick it with an unexpectedly loud burp. I also don\u2019t use the Siri head gestures, although they work very well. I frequently use Adaptive Audio around the house, which allows me to enable transparency mode to hear what I need to while letting the headphones apply ANC if I encounter unwanted noise. Voice Isolation is also a big improvement to normal voice performance and Live Translation is certainly nice to have.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Two additional H2 features that I do use often on the AirPods Pro, and will do so on the AirPods Max 2 because they work well here, are studio-quality audio recording and Camera Remote. The first is self-explanatory, but it does offer a boost to clips recorded in Voice Memos and the Camera app (my main two uses). Meanwhile, Camera Remote allows you to use the Digital Crown to take a photo or start\/stop a video recording without reaching for your iPhone.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"et-tu-hearing-health\">Et tu, hearing health?<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"The fabric ear pads on the AirPods Max 2\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/NJh12KdLr5daRo0iQ_RM_g--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6099_5947.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">The fabric ear pads on the AirPods Max 2<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Apple\u2019s hearing health features are some of the most important tools on the AirPods Pro. However, you won\u2019t find them on the AirPods Max 2, despite the new H2 chip. While the headphones do offer loud sound reduction, the hearing test, hearing aid and automatic conversation boost tools are absent. There are several reasons for this, the primary one being that the cushions on the over-ear headphones don\u2019t seal off your ears the way the AirPods Pro ear tips do.<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_2egb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Still, loud sound reduction isn\u2019t nothing. This prevents exposure to loud ambient noise while making adjustments to keep the audio sounding good. It\u2019s particularly useful when you encounter blaring construction sounds during a commute or similar inconveniences.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"design-more-of-the-same\">Design: More of the same<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"The Digital Crown and the listening mode control on the AirPods Max 2\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/Ed4meZ4IJ6nLS0d2vCCyww--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6063_9300.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">The Digital Crown and the listening mode control on the AirPods Max 2<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">One thing that hasn\u2019t changed on the AirPods Max 2 is the design. For better or worse, Apple has kept the same look that it debuted in 2020. Aside from new colors and the switch from Lightning to USB-C in 2024, there are no other visible differences between this version and the original. I would argue it\u2019s time for the company to change things up, but I can also understand why it hasn\u2019t.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">First, let\u2019s discuss what\u2019s great about the AirPods Max\u2019s design. It\u2019s unique, especially the mesh headband, solid aluminum ear cups and fabric ear pads. The punches of color are nice too, and if you prefer something more subtle, the black and gold, er\u2026 Midnight and Starlight options fit that bill. From the start, I\u2019ve loved the simple controls that are comprised of the Apple Watch\u2019s Digital Crown and the lone additional button for listening modes (a press and hold will activate Live Translation). The controls are in a great location, and it\u2019s so satisfying to spin the Digital Crown for volume adjustments.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">So, why hasn\u2019t Apple redesigned the outside of the AirPods Max? I\u2019d argue it doesn\u2019t think it needs to yet. The AirPods Pro is still largely the same as it has been from the first version, and the regular AirPods only got its first big design overhaul in 2024. The original AirPods debuted in 2016, so if Apple keeps a similar timeline for aesthetic changes to both the Pro and Max lines, we might not see those until 2027 and 2028 respectively.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"sound-quality-anc-and-calls\">Sound quality, ANC and calls<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Like before, the ear pads are replaceable on the AirPods Max 2\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/aGiQCiTNgYibS_a7YKdeXQ--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6044_8765.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">Like before, the ear pads are replaceable on the AirPods Max 2<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Besides the H2 chip, the other big upgrade to the AirPods Max\u2019s internal components is a new high dynamic range amplifier. This improves overall sound quality by allowing you to listen at higher volumes with low distortion and excellent clarity. Apple also overhauled the digital signal processing (DSP) for better bass response and to enhance the locations of instruments in the mix.<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_2ogb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Those tweaks don\u2019t equate to a huge leap in audio performance on the AirPods Max 2, but the gains are noticeable. Sound quality wasn\u2019t an issue before, but you can definitely hear the improved instrument localization and enhanced bass performance across nearly all genres. On Ruston Kelly\u2019s \u201cWaiting to Love You (Piano Version\/Live From Salt Lick Sessions),\u201d the singer\u2019s unique voice and the keys completely fill your head. It\u2019s like a barrage of balladry in the best way. You get the texture of the vocals, the reverb of the piano and all the dynamics of the stripped-down live performance.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Jump to something a bit more energetic, like aya\u2019s \u201cnavel gazer,\u201d and the AirPods Max 2 deftly manages the vocals, synths and whatever else is happening in the mix (seriously, it\u2019s a lot). And there\u2019s still the sonic deluge that <em>hexed! <\/em>hits you with. Even with the multi-genre mash-up metal of Bilmuri, these headphones keep the vocals, guitars, drums and subtle sounds separate. There are a lot of delicate details in the artist\u2019s latest tracks \u2014 like \u201cMore Than Hate,\u201d for example \u2014 and the AirPods Max 2 ensures you\u2019ll catch them all. A screeching eagle? Hell yeah, brother.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">While wireless listening remains excellent, the AirPods Max 2 still offers lossless audio over USB-C. If you opt for wired use, you can get up to 24-bit\/48kHz quality from compatible streaming services or locally stored files. This is the same functionality that Apple delivered in 2025. As expected, it still works well and provides enhanced listening when needed. Personally, I like to use it when I\u2019m sitting at my desk. What\u2019s more, the wired USB-C connection can be used for low-latency audio \u2014 which is great when you\u2019re playing a game or mixing\/editing audio projects. I should note the rest of the AirPods Max features (Siri, Adaptive Audio, etc.) still work over Bluetooth in wired mode, and there\u2019s also a low-latency Game Mode for wireless use with a Mac, iPhone or iPad.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">In terms of ANC, Apple says the H2 unlocks up to 1.5x stronger performance than the previous generation. The company combined the audio chip with new computational audio algorithms to reduce more external sounds \u2014 like airplane engines, trains and the roar of a coffee shop. That difference is certainly noticeable, as I found constant sources of noise around my house (fans, white noise machines, HVAC system, etc.) were much less apparent when I had the AirPods Max 2 on. Plus, Adaptive Audio uses the ANC system to pick up any changes and make the necessary adjustments to keep your music, podcast or movie coming through clearly.<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_2tgb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Every AirPods model that has ANC is also equipped with transparency mode. Since the debut of the first AirPods Pro, I\u2019ve been continually amazed by the natural sound of this feature. No other audio company comes close to matching the clarity of the ambient sound here, nearly making you forget you&#8217;re wearing earbuds or headphones. This has a tremendous impact on calls, as you can hear yourself very well, so you never feel the need to speak loudly. Plus, Voice Isolation combines the AirPods Max 2\u2019s H2 chip with an iPhone, iPad or Mac to further improve your voice and reduce background noise. Most headphones offer average voice performance at best, but like it has in the past, Apple actually delivers.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"battery-life\">Battery life<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"The Smart Case puts the AirPods Max 2 in an &quot;ultra-low-power state&quot;\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/yh4mJfpjvuqowV3Hxq1OEg--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6040_8139.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">The Smart Case puts the AirPods Max 2 in an &#8220;ultra-low-power state&#8221;<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_31gb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">One of the areas I was hoping for an additional boost on the AirPods Max 2 is battery life. Sadly, I was headed for disappointment. This model offers the same 20-hour longevity as its predecessors, a figure that includes ANC and\/or Spatial Audio. While it\u2019s certainly enough to get you through a couple of work days or a trans-Atlantic flight, that number falls well short of the 30-50 hours much of the over-ear competition can muster these days.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">I haven\u2019t had the AirPods Max 2 long enough to do a full battery test; I chose to focus on the new features instead. However, based on the performance that I\u2019ve seen so far, I have no reason to doubt Apple\u2019s claims here. The company has a solid track record on battery life, and all indications are that it continues on the AirPods Max 2. I\u2019ll update this review when this test is complete.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"the-competition\">The competition<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"The AirPods Max 2's mesh headband\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/.dy9jQrHqiSEpdCWWqOJfw--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6054_5396.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">The AirPods Max 2&#8217;s mesh headband<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">If you\u2019re thoroughly invested in Apple\u2019s ecosystem, the AirPods Max 2 is worth considering. Most of the features are reserved for the iOS, iPadOS and masOS faithful, so it doesn\u2019t really make sense for Android users or Windows devotees to splurge on the $549 headphones. If you\u2019re still balking at that price tag, Sony\u2019s WH-1000XM6 is my current top pick on our best headphones list. While those headphones are $460 at full price, you can currently find them for $400. Sony continues to mix great sound with capable ANC and a list of features few rivals can compete with. Plus, those handy tools are available to both iOS and Android users.<\/p>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">Bose\u2019s second-gen QuietComfort Ultra headphones are another solid option. They offer powerful ANC, great sound quality and excellent comfort for $449, but you can currently snag them for around $400. If noise cancellation performance is your primary concern, this is your pick. Lastly, if money is no object, a personal favorite is the Px8 S2 from Bowers &amp; Wilkins. They\u2019re pure luxury right down to the $799 price tag, and they exude grandeur. The company\u2019s combo of leather and aluminum screams high end and it made some design tweaks for this model to refresh the overall look. Battery life and sound quality are the big attractions here, but just know you\u2019ll have to forgo the advanced features much of the (more affordable) competition provides \u2014 like all of those H2-powered tools on the AirPods Max 2.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"heading-mb col-body heading-text-style font-bold charcoal-color\" data-jump-link-target id=\"wrap-up\">Wrap-up<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative col-body mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Apple AirPods Max 2 and the Smart Case\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" class=\"fig-image-round\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/Kc2zumqMcE8pVzNq06RWRA--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MA--\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/dsc_6085_5301.jpg\"><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-[0.875rem]\/[1.25rem] figure-caption mt-1 line-clamp-2 mt-2.5 md:mt-2 pr-2.5\">\n<div><span class=\"[&amp;_p]:inline\">Apple AirPods Max 2 and the Smart Case<\/span><span> (Billy Steele for Engadget)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">The AirPods Max 2 is an obvious upgrade over the previous version. And no, I don\u2019t count the USB-C swap-in as a separate model. Simply put, the H2 chip brings Apple\u2019s over-ear headphones on par with the rest of the AirPods lineup, namely the AirPods Pro 3. And since I don\u2019t expect Apple to announce new earbuds this year, that parity should remain for a while.<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-fullbleed mb-4 bg-marshmallow pb-5 dark:bg-ramones md:invisible md:mb-0 md:h-0 md:overflow-hidden md:pb-0\">\n<div class=\"py-2 text-center text-xs uppercase\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-nowrap justify-center\">\n<div class=\"flex\" id=\"_R_3bgb7b4ilfaiv5tilbH1_\">\n<div class=\"flex size-full items-center justify-center bg-marshmallow text-center leading-3\">Advertisement<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"col-body mb-4 leading-7 text-[18px] md:leading-8 break-words min-w-0 charcoal-color\">These headphones are still expensive though, and the more affordable AirPods Pro offer handy hearing health features that are nice to have in your pocket. I could also understand why prospective buyers would want some design changes before making such a big investment. Sure, the AirPods Max 2 looks the same as its predecessor, possibly leaving those who own the previous version with a difficult decision to make. But Apple kept the price the same and brought better sound and more features, so there\u2019s no denying these headphones outperform the original.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.engadget.com\/audio\/headphones\/apple-airpods-max-2-review-better-late-than-never-130000982.html&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/Qfdth6hfonK_REglQMzuIQ&#8211;\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD02NzU-\/https:\/\/d29szjachogqwa.cloudfront.net\/images\/user-uploaded\/apm2_1702.jpg&#8221;] Audio Headphones Why you can trust us Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products. Apple AirPods Max 2 review: Better late than never Overdue [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,63],"class_list":["post-1857111","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-engadget-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1857111","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1857111"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1857111\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1857111"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1857111"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1857111"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}