Headsets and headphones / Compare

Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)

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Product A: Apple

AirPods Max 2

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B

Product B: Apple

AirPods Max (USB-C)

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Only differences

AApple AirPods Max 2

BApple AirPods Max (USB-C)

General

3 of 8 differ

Series

AirPods1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/109525Read 8 October 2026

AirPods2Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/109525Read 6 October 2026Listed in Apple's AirPods family

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

A3454, MHWK4AM/A1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/109525Read 8 October 2026Current Identify your AirPods names AirPods Max 2, A3454, introduced 2026. Reference US Midnight MHWK4AM/A is independently identified by the exact retailer page. Excludes A3184 USB-C first generation and A2096 Lightning.14Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1959755-REG/apple_mhwk4am_a_airpods_max_2_wireless.htmlRead 8 October 2026Exact selected US Midnight MHWK4AM/A. Regulatory A3454 is independently established by Apple identification source.

A3184, MWW43, MWW53, MWW63, MWW73, MWW83, MWW43AM/A, MWW53AM/A, MWW63AM/A, MWW73AM/A, MWW83AM/A2Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/109525Read 6 October 2026Identify your AirPods: AirPods Max 1 (USB-C), Model number A3184, year introduced 2024. AirPods Max 2 is A3454 and AirPods Max 1 (Lightning) is A2096. Part numbers come from the Apple Store source3Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/MWW43AM/ARead 6 October 2026Retired Apple Store product URLs redirect to a search for the product name: MWW43AM/A to AirPods Max Midnight, MWW53AM/A to Starlight, MWW63AM/A to Blue, MWW73AM/A to Orange, MWW83AM/A to Purple. UK ZM/A and German ZM/A URLs give the same colours17Maker spec sheet (PDF)media2store2.blob.core.windows.net/storage/item_spec/24/246010.pdfRead 7 October 2026Apple US Education Institution Hardware and Software Price List, December 2, 2024, Apple Headphones table on pages 28-29. MWW43AM/A Midnight, MWW53AM/A Starlight, MWW63AM/A Blue, MWW73AM/A Orange, MWW83AM/A Purple. Pricing date September 20, 2024. Public reseller-hosted copy of the maker document. These complete order numbers are US references. Existing short colour-family references remain.

GTIN / EAN

19595103906014Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1959755-REG/apple_mhwk4am_a_airpods_max_2_wireless.htmlRead 8 October 2026Exact selected Midnight MHWK4AM/A, headphones-only listing, UPC 195951039060. Optional stand bundle excluded.

19594954389018Retailer pagebestbuy.com/site/apple-airpods-max-usb-c-midnight/10313267.pRead 7 October 2026Public indexed Specifications, General and Other sections: AirPods Max (USB-C), Midnight, model MWW43AM/A, UPC 195949543890. US Midnight SKU only. Other colours and regional barcodes are not inferred. Direct HTTP timed out, indexed page states the complete identity and UPC cells.31Retailer pagejumpplus.com/products/airpods-max-mww43am-aRead 7 October 2026Actual readable product identity states MWW43AM/A, Midnight, barcode 195949543890, with USB-C product/box illustrations. Independently corroborates the same US reference code/barcode when Best Buy direct access is unavailable. No other-colour barcode or country launch price transferred.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

16 March 20264Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2026/03/apple-introduces-airpods-max-2-powered-by-h2Read 8 October 2026

9 September 20244Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2024/09/apple-introduces-airpods-4-and-a-hearing-health-experience-with-airpods-pro-2Read 6 October 2026Press release dated September 9, 2024. AirPods Max now come in midnight, starlight, blue, purple and orange with USB-C charging

Status

Available3Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-maxRead 8 October 2026

Discontinued3Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/MWW43AM/ARead 6 October 2026The product pages no longer exist and redirect to a search with only accessories in the results16Press articlemacrumors.com/guide/airpods-max-1-vs-max-2Read 6 October 2026Comparison table: AirPods Max (2024, USB-C), released September 2024, now discontinued. AirPods Max 2 released in April 2026

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)15Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-max-2-review-155613Read 8 October 2026SoundGuys's review advises owners of the AirPods Max with USB-C not to upgrade to the AirPods Max 2.21Press articlemacrumors.com/2026/03/16/apple-announces-airpods-max-2Read 23 October 2026MacRumors says the AirPods Max 2 are the third AirPods Max, after the 2020 original and the 2024 USB-C update.

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Apple AirPods Max 234Press articlemacrumors.com/2026/03/16/apple-announces-airpods-max-2Read 23 October 2026MacRumors says the AirPods Max 2 are the third AirPods Max, after the 2020 original and the 2024 USB-C update.35Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-max-2-review-155613Read 23 October 2026SoundGuys's review advises owners of the AirPods Max with USB-C not to upgrade to the AirPods Max 2.

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$5494Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2026/03/apple-introduces-airpods-max-2-powered-by-h2Read 8 October 2026Maker US launch MSRP, preorder March 25, shipping/store availability early April.

$5494Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2024/09/apple-introduces-airpods-4-and-a-hearing-health-experience-with-airpods-pro-2Read 6 October 2026Customers can now pre-order AirPods Max with USB-C charging for $549 (U.S.)

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€5795Press releaseapple.com/de/newsroom/2026/03/apple-introduces-airpods-max-2-powered-by-h2Read 8 October 2026German maker launch price includes VAT.

€5795Press releaseapple.com/de/newsroom/2024/09/apple-introduces-airpods-4-and-a-hearing-health-experience-with-airpods-pro-2Read 6 October 2026AirPods Max mit Laden per USB-C für 579 Euro inkl. MwSt. (Germany)

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US, DE4Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2026/03/apple-introduces-airpods-max-2-powered-by-h2Read 8 October 2026US maker launch and German maker launch substantiate these markets only.

US, DE5Press releaseapple.com/de/newsroom/2024/09/apple-introduces-airpods-4-and-a-hearing-health-experience-with-airpods-pro-2Read 6 October 2026German release offers USB-C AirPods Max for preorder at 579 euros including VAT, with availability September 20, 2024. Establishes Germany availability.17Maker spec sheet (PDF)media2store2.blob.core.windows.net/storage/item_spec/24/246010.pdfRead 7 October 2026US availability from Apple US Education Institution price list for all five September 2024 colour order numbers. Germany availability is separately established by the German September 2024 Apple launch release, which prices the USB-C model at 579 euros including VAT. This is a supported market subset.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, Orange2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, Orange1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026

Segment

Music3Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-maxRead 8 October 2026

Not available

Design

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Form factor

Over-ear2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Over-ear14Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2020/12/apple-introduces-airpods-max-the-magic-of-airpods-in-a-stunning-over-ear-designRead 6 October 2026Launch release of the 2020 Lightning model: over-ear design. The 2024 release changes only colours and the charging port, and Notebookcheck reports that nothing else changed

Ear cup enclosureiClosed, open or semi-open acoustic enclosure. This does not describe how the headset folds.

Closed14Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1959755-REG/apple_mhwk4am_a_airpods_max_2_wireless.htmlRead 8 October 2026

Closed20Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1852445-REG/apple_mww43am_a_airpods_max_midnight.htmlRead 7 October 2026Public discontinued listing title explicitly says Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Closed-Back Headphones (Midnight, USB-C). Its replacement is AirPods Max 2 and is not used for any other specification. Direct HTTP 403, public web page exposes the original exact-model title.32Reviewtweakers.net/reviews/13628/bose-sony-of-toch-apple-negen-luxe-noisecancellinghoofdtelefoons-getest.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact USB-C subsection directly describes the closed-headphone soundstage. Corroborates the original closed-back title while B&H now redirects to Max 2 replacement. No replacement-model spec used.

Wearing style

Headband2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Headband12Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/101598Read 6 October 2026AirPods Max headphones: headband and stainless steel sliding arms

FoldingiFlat means the ear cups rotate flat. Inward means the ear cups fold toward the headband.

Not available

Flat21Reviewtechradar.com/audio/wireless-headphones/sony-wh-1000-xm6-vs-apple-airpods-maxRead 7 October 2026Design section caption identifies the AirPods Max laid flat. The comparison uses the USB-C model. Ear cups rotate flat, while the headband has no inward folding hinges. Flat follows the schema meaning, rather than the reviewers ordinary use of fold to mean folding toward the headband.

Swivelling ear cupsiEar cups can rotate relative to the headband. Tilting alone does not count.

Yes14Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1959755-REG/apple_mhwk4am_a_airpods_max_2_wireless.htmlRead 8 October 2026Exact technical table and narrative independently rotating ear cups. Generic Foldable No means no inward hinge, not absence of swivel.

Yes14Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2020/12/apple-introduces-airpods-max-the-magic-of-airpods-in-a-stunning-over-ear-designRead 6 October 2026Each ear cup can independently pivot and rotate. 2020 Lightning model release, same design

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Lighting zonesiNumber of independently controllable lighting areas across both ear cups.

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

6 of 20 differ

Driver type

Dynamic2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Dynamic1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Audio Technology: Apple-designed dynamic driver

Driver sizeiDiameter of the largest sound driver. Do not use the microphone capsule diameter.

40mm13Reviewifixit.com/Device/AirPods_Max_2Read 8 October 2026Exact Max 2 technical specification lists 40 mm dynamic drivers. No A2096 teardown capacity transferred.

40mm14Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2020/12/apple-introduces-airpods-max-the-magic-of-airpods-in-a-stunning-over-ear-designRead 6 October 202640-mm Apple-designed dynamic driver. 2020 Lightning model release. The USB-C tech specs name the Apple-designed dynamic driver without a size

Drivers per sideiNumber of sound-producing transducers in one side, excluding microphones.

114Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1959755-REG/apple_mhwk4am_a_airpods_max_2_wireless.htmlRead 8 October 2026Exact technical table explicitly one per earpiece.

Not available

Diaphragm material

Not available

Not available

Magnet

Dual-neodymium ring magnet motor3Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-maxRead 8 October 2026Exact current driver section. No numerical THD claim is published here.

Dual neodymium ring magnet motor14Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2020/12/apple-introduces-airpods-max-the-magic-of-airpods-in-a-stunning-over-ear-designRead 6 October 2026A unique dual neodymium ring magnet motor. 2020 Lightning model release

Frequency response (wired or passive)iPublished acoustic range for wired listening, or the maker’s single range when no mode is distinguished. Power state and test standard belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Wireless audio transmission bandiFrequency range of audio transmitted over the wireless connection, not the acoustic response of the driver. Codec, sampling rate and bitrate conditions belong in the source note. When the maker gives a range per codec, the widest range is stored and its codec goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Impedance (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off value for a passive analog connection when the maker publishes both powered and passive values. Note the power state and test frequency.

Not available

Not available

Sensitivity (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off figure when both powered and passive values exist. The power or voltage reference, test distance and frequency belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sensitivity referenceiPublished power or voltage reference for sensitivity. Do not assume 1 mW when the source gives only a dB value.

Not available

Not available

THD (claimed)iPublished distortion figure or numerical upper bound. The source note states any less-than sign and test level.

Not available

1%14Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2020/12/apple-introduces-airpods-max-the-magic-of-airpods-in-a-stunning-over-ear-designRead 6 October 2026Published as total harmonic distortion of less than 1 percent across the entire audible range, even at maximum volume. Upper bound from the 2020 Lightning model release

Max input power

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio sample rateiHighest supported digital audio sample rate over a USB cable or wireless dongle. This is not the microphone rate or acoustic frequency response.

48kHz4Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2026/03/apple-introduces-airpods-max-2-powered-by-h2Read 8 October 202624-bit/48 kHz digital lossless playback using the included USB-C cable. Bluetooth does not inherit this resolution.

48kHz7Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2025/03/lossless-audio-and-ultra-low-latency-audio-come-to-airpods-maxRead 6 October 202624-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio over the USB-C cable. Free firmware update in April 2025 with iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4 and macOS Sequoia 15.4 for AirPods Max with USB-C

Max digital audio bit depthiHighest published digital playback bit depth over a USB cable or wireless dongle.

24bits4Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2026/03/apple-introduces-airpods-max-2-powered-by-h2Read 8 October 2026Same wired USB scope, not microphone resolution.

24bits7Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2025/03/lossless-audio-and-ultra-low-latency-audio-come-to-airpods-maxRead 6 October 202624-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio over the USB-C cable after the April 2025 firmware update

DAC

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA manufacturer-supported hearing test or ear scan creates a device sound profile tailored to the listener. Generic equalizer adjustments do not count.

Not available

Not available

Onboard EQiCustom playback EQ profiles stored in the headset and applied without the host app running. Note supported active connections. Receiver-only or software-only EQ does not count.

Yes10Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/airpods/customize-eq-te819024i19r/webRead 8 October 2026Current guide 27 says Custom EQ settings are stored on AirPods and carry to any paired device. Set using compatible current iPhone/iPad/Mac software. Exact release notes identify firmware 9A348 as introducing Max 2 Custom EQ. The May 2026 SoundGuys no-custom-EQ statement describes earlier software.11Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-euro/guide/airpods/aside/glosrqz3g8xj/27/web/27Read 8 October 2026Current exact supported-model list names AirPods Max 2, not Max 1.18Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/106340Read 8 October 2026Exact 9A348 release notes introduce Custom EQ for Max 2. Current original guide separately establishes storage on the headphones and carryover to other paired devices.

No11Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/airpods/aside/glosrqz3g8xj/27/web/27Read 6 October 2026AirPods that support Custom EQ: AirPods 4, AirPods 5, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Max 2. AirPods Max 1 is not listed, so it has no custom EQ to store. Adaptive EQ is automatic

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of bands in the custom playback equalizer. Microphone EQ bands are excluded.

310Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/airpods/customize-eq-te819024i19r/webRead 8 October 2026Explicit three-band Low, Mid and High playback equalizer. This is separate from automatic Adaptive EQ and Headphone Accommodations.11Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-euro/guide/airpods/aside/glosrqz3g8xj/27/web/27Read 8 October 2026Supported-model scope for the companion three-band EQ guide.18Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/106340Read 8 October 20269A348 release notes name low, mid and high controls. Required host software remains the compatible current Apple software described by the guide, not an invented minimum.

Not available

EQ presets

Not available

Balanced Tone, Vocal Range, Brightness22Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/airpods/set-headphone-accommodations-devcd05671ab/webRead 7 October 2026Headphone Accommodations, Audio Tuning choices on iPhone/iPad and Mac: Balanced Tone, Vocal Range, Brightness. These are host accessibility presets, not custom EQ stored in this headset. Apple support article 102663 explicitly includes AirPods Max all models. Customize Audio is preference-based setup and is not a hearing test.23Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/102663Read 7 October 2026Headphone Accommodations works with AirPods Max all models, on iOS/iPadOS 14 or later. The linked AirPods manual names the three tone presets. This host feature is distinct from Custom EQ, whose supported models include Max 2 and exclude Max 1.

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

0 of 3 differ

Spatial audio supportiNamed headset or host spatial-audio systems that the maker or reviewer explicitly supports. A platform feature may require compatible hardware, software or a separate licence.

Personalized Spatial Audio2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026Compatible Apple hardware, software and content required. Personal profile needs TrueDepth iPhone camera.

Personalized Spatial Audio1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. Footnote: compatible hardware, software and content required

Spatial audio licence includediA paid spatial-audio licence is bundled or embedded. Compatibility with a separately purchased app does not count.

Not available

Not available

Head tracking

Yes2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026

Noise cancelling

1 of 10 differ

Active noise cancelling

Yes2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026

ANC typeiFeedforward uses outside microphones. Feedback uses inside microphones. Hybrid uses both. Voice-call noise filtering is separate.

Hybrid3Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-maxRead 8 October 2026Exact current Max 2 page names six outward-facing and two inward-facing cancellation microphones.

Hybrid14Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2020/12/apple-introduces-airpods-max-the-magic-of-airpods-in-a-stunning-over-ear-designRead 6 October 2026Three outward-facing microphones and one microphone inside each ear cup for noise cancellation. Matches the eight ANC microphones in the USB-C tech specs

ANC microphonesiTotal microphones used for active playback noise cancellation across both sides. Do not substitute the total physical or voice microphone count.

82Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

81Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Nine microphones total: eight microphones for Active Noise Cancellation

Adaptive ANCiNoise cancellation automatically changes with the environment or fit. Manually choosing a level does not count.

Yes3Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-maxRead 8 October 2026Adaptive Audio automatically adjusts cancellation with environment. Current firmware and compatible host software required.

Yes14Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2020/12/apple-introduces-airpods-max-the-magic-of-airpods-in-a-stunning-over-ear-designRead 6 October 2026Noise cancellation continuously adapts to the headphone fit and movement in real time. 2020 Lightning model release

ANC levelsiNumber of adjustable cancellation strength steps. Off and transparency modes are excluded.

Not available

Not available

ANC attenuation (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

Yes2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026

Adjustable transparency

Not available

Not available

Conversation detectioniAudio pauses or lowers automatically when the wearer speaks. Voice assistant activation does not count.

Yes3Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-maxRead 8 October 2026

No16Press articlemacrumors.com/guide/airpods-max-1-vs-max-2Read 6 October 2026The new model introduces Adaptive Audio features such as Conversation Awareness. The 2024 USB-C model has no Conversation Awareness

Wind noise reduction

Not available

Not available

Measured

9 of 21 differ

Frequency response notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Public Methodology v2.3 verdict describes bass and midrange close to its target, with a mid-treble dip. ANC-off bass-range noise is noted. Locked numeric measurements are not used.16Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/apple/airpods-max-2Read 8 October 2026

Tweakers measured the USB-C sample against Harman OE 2018. Regional RMS errors were 2.48 dB at 20-200 Hz, 1.63 dB at 200-2000 Hz, and 3.80 dB at 2000-20000 Hz. These are regional errors, not signed bass/treble amounts or full-range error.29Measurementtweakers.net/reviews/13628/bose-sony-of-toch-apple-negen-luxe-noisecancellinghoofdtelefoons-getest.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact Apple AirPods Max USB-C regional RMS tables use Harman OE 2018. Review explicitly says measurements use Bluetooth, with GRAS 45BC KEMAR, Sinus Apollo Light, Samurai and REW. Firmware and selected Bluetooth codec are unspecified. Regional RMS error is not a signed bass/treble amount or a full-range error.30Measurementtweakers.net/reviews/12858/zo-testen-we-hoofdtelefoons-een-reis-door-de-geluiddichte-ruimte.htmlRead 7 October 2026Published lab method predates the September 2025 review. GRAS 45BC KEMAR, REW frequency sweep 20-20000 Hz, calibrated to 80 dB. General equipment does not prove the exact review connection or firmware.

Bass amountiReviewer’s bass deviation from its stated target. Positive is more bass. Target and test method belong in the source note.

2dB16Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/apple/airpods-max-2Read 8 October 2026Public Sound Profile category summary rounds bass to +2 dB against the RTINGS target under Methodology v2.3. Precise locked regional/full-range results and test firmware/settings remain unknown. No locked result extraction.

Not available

Treble amountiReviewer’s treble deviation from its stated target. Positive is more treble. Target and test method belong in the source note.

-3dB16Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/apple/airpods-max-2Read 8 October 2026Same public rounded category summary gives -3 dB. Not a full-range error or a graph-picked peak.

Not available

Deviation from targetiReviewer’s full-range error from its target curve. Do not substitute a regional bass or treble error.

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittingsiReviewer’s standard deviation across repeated fittings. Test rig and fitting procedure belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortioniIndependently measured harmonic distortion, with test level and method in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sound leakageiIndependently measured leakage at 30 cm. Playback level and method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Measured noise isolationiIndependently measured attenuation. Positive values mean more noise reduction. ANC state, rig and frequency bands belong in the source note.

AApple AirPods Max 2

ANC on	Overall (dB)
Yes	33.2

Source19Reviewtechgearlab.com/reviews/audio/wireless-headphones/apple-airpods-max-2Read 8 October 2026Exact ANC test discussion reports average attenuation 33.2 dB. Low/mid/high table values are not stored because precise band bounds and test-specific rig are not stated in this review. Playback level, firmware and host unknown. Historical No EQ statement precedes current 9A348 Custom EQ.

BApple AirPods Max (USB-C)

ANC on	Bass (dB)	Mids (dB)	Treble (dB)
Yes	11.99	28.35	26.36

Source29Measurementtweakers.net/reviews/13628/bose-sony-of-toch-apple-negen-luxe-noisecancellinghoofdtelefoons-getest.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact USB-C ANC tables: mean attenuation 11.99 dB at 20-200 Hz, 28.35 dB at 200-2000 Hz, 26.36 dB at 2000-20000 Hz. Positive attenuation. No overall value derived. KEMAR setup and white-noise method are documented separately. Firmware unspecified.30Measurementtweakers.net/reviews/12858/zo-testen-we-hoofdtelefoons-een-reis-door-de-geluiddichte-ruimte.htmlRead 7 October 2026White noise at 80 dB from M-Audio monitor, right ear one metre from tweeter. REW RTA baseline without headset, then ANC measurement. Three recordings per fitting, five fittings, best three fittings averaged, 1/12 smoothing. Review reports mean band attenuation.

Noise isolation (measured, best)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

33.2dB=CalculatedFrom Measured noise isolation

Not available

Passive isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic quality notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Standard mode speech recordings have weak rejection of office, street and reverberant noise. Voice Isolation improves noise rejection on a compatible Apple host.15Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-max-2-review-155613Read 8 October 2026Exact automated speech recordings, standard versus Voice Isolation. No numerical bandwidth or SNR inferred.

Tweakers found the USB-C sample thin in bass in quiet recordings and muffled with background noise. Wind recordings had audible rumble and fluctuating voice level, while speech generally remained understandable.29Measurementtweakers.net/reviews/13628/bose-sony-of-toch-apple-negen-luxe-noisecancellinghoofdtelefoons-getest.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact USB-C recorded speech tests use KEMAR mouth simulator in quiet, noise and wind. No numerical microphone bandwidth or noise score is inferred. Exact connection and firmware unspecified.30Measurementtweakers.net/reviews/12858/zo-testen-we-hoofdtelefoons-een-reis-door-de-geluiddichte-ruimte.htmlRead 7 October 2026Recorded speech from KEMAR mouth simulator in Audacity. Noise test uses 70 dB(C) white noise from monitor. The review also includes wind tests without specifying their equipment. Exact connection, host and firmware remain unknown.

Mic low-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratioiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured latencyiEnd-to-end latency measured by a reviewer for a specific connection, platform and codec. Firmware, method and operating mode belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

2.4 GHz latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured battery lifeiReviewer’s continuous playback test. State the connection, ANC and lighting where known. Unknown settings stay omitted and are described in the source note.

AApple AirPods Max 2

ANC	Hours (h)
Yes	21.01

Source15Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-max-2-review-155613Read 8 October 2026Literal public result: 21 hours and 31 seconds, not 31 minutes. Continuous rundown ANC on, music at 75 dB SPL, added May 27, 2026. Purchased exact MHWK4AM/A unit. Test-specific connection, host, codec, firmware, spatial mode and lighting are not explicitly assigned, so omitted. Review metadata dates/dimensions are not adopted.

BApple AirPods Max (USB-C)

Connection	ANC	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	Yes	19.63
Bluetooth	No	22.03

Source29Measurementtweakers.net/reviews/13628/bose-sony-of-toch-apple-negen-luxe-noisecancellinghoofdtelefoons-getest.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact USB-C rows: ANC on 19 h 38 m, off 22 h 02 m, represented as rounded decimal hours at the source minute precision. Review explicitly names Samsung Galaxy A15 host. Repeating music over Bluetooth calibrated to 80 dB until music stops. Codec, firmware, lighting and head-detection override are unpublished. Apple claimed 20 h uses iPhone/AAC/50% volume and is a different setup.30Measurementtweakers.net/reviews/12858/zo-testen-we-hoofdtelefoons-een-reis-door-de-geluiddichte-ruimte.htmlRead 7 October 2026Published February 6,2025 method: phone repeats music mix, calibrated with KEMAR/REW to 80 dB. Custom simulated-ear test stations with USB microphones and Adobe Audition record until playback stops. Method describes H.E.A.R.S. alternative for in-ear proximity sensors, not a specified AirPods Max fixture or sensor override.

Battery life (measured, max)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

21.01h=CalculatedFrom Measured battery life

22.03h=CalculatedFrom Measured battery life

Clamping forceiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Weight (measured)iIndependently weighed headset. A review that repeats the maker’s number does not qualify. Cable and microphone inclusion belong in the source note.

383g(13.5 oz)19Reviewtechgearlab.com/reviews/audio/wireless-headphones/apple-airpods-max-2Read 8 October 2026Exact public comparison table labels Measured Weight 383 g. Cable, pad inclusion and scale resolution are not explicitly assigned. Maker 386.2 g remains separately claimed.

Not available

Microphone

1 of 16 differ

MicrophoneiMain microphone used for speech. Secondary internal microphones may be described in the source note.

Built-in2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Built-in1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Microphones are built into the ear cups. No boom or inline microphone

Microphone element

Not available

Not available

Microphone pickup patterniUse the maker’s exact named pattern. Unidirectional does not establish whether the capsule is cardioid, supercardioid or hypercardioid.

Not available

Not available

Voice microphonesiTotal microphones used for voice pickup or beamforming across both sides. ANC-only microphones are excluded.

32Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026Three voice-pickup microphones, two shared with the eight ANC microphones. Nine physical microphones total, not eleven.

31Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Three microphones for voice pickup (two shared with Active Noise Cancellation and one additional microphone)

Total microphonesiEvery physical microphone across the headset, including call, ANC and calibration microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes microphones in charging cases or receivers, and vibration sensors. Use an explicitly published physical total, never a sum of overlapping role counts.

Not available

Not available

Mic frequency responseiAcoustic microphone response, not its digital sampling rate. Connection-specific ranges belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sensitivityiPublished microphone sensitivity. Reference such as dBV/Pa or dBFS, frequency and distance belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic signal-to-noiseiPublished microphone signal-to-noise ratio. Minimum or typical conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sample rateiExplicitly published digital microphone capture or speech sampling rate. State the audio route in the source note, or say it is unpublished. Internal capture does not prove the effective rate on every connection. Acoustic bandwidth, playback rate and generic microphone-chip capability do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Mic noise reductioniProcessing that removes noise from transmitted speech. Playback ANC and a directional microphone alone do not count.

DSP3Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-maxRead 8 October 2026Voice Isolation uses H2 computational audio for transmitted speech. No microphone electrical response or sampling rate inferred.

Not available

Flip to mute

Not available

Not available

Mute button

Yes2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Digital Crown: press once to answer a call or mute or unmute

Mute indicatoriPublished indication of microphone mute. mechanical_marker is a visible physical marker showing the microphone's mute-switch position. LED options require an electronic light. The in-line controller option is for a mute light on a cable remote.

Not available

Not available

Sidetone

Not available

Not available

Adjustable sidetone

Not available

Not available

Foam microphone windscreeniA foam cover for the voice microphone. An internal metal mesh pop filter does not count.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

3 of 20 differ

Audio connectionsiConnections that carry playback audio. Charging or firmware USB alone does not count as USB audio.

Bluetooth, USB, Analog8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/108364Read 8 October 2026Exact Max 2 analog route needs Apple USB-C to 3.5 mm Audio Cable sold separately. Included USB-C cable supports digital audio.

Bluetooth, USB, Analog7Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2025/03/lossless-audio-and-ultra-low-latency-audio-come-to-airpods-maxRead 6 October 2026USB audio needs the April 2025 firmware. Analog needs the USB-C to 3.5 mm audio cable, sold separately for $39 (U.S.)8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/104983Read 7 October 2026Wired mode with a USB-C to 3.5 mm Audio Cable plugged into AirPods Max (USB-C). Lossless and ultra-low latency audio with the included USB-C to USB-C cable

Analog source plugsiAnalog plug(s) supplied for the source device, including adapters. The headset-side jack is listed separately.

Not available

Not available

Cable connector on headsetiConnection used by the playback cable at the headset. A fixed cable is not replaceable through a headset jack.

USB-C8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/108364Read 8 October 2026

USB-C8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/104983Read 7 October 2026Both the USB-C cable and the USB-C to 3.5 mm Audio Cable plug into the USB-C port on the headset

Longest included cableiLength of the longest supplied cable, including charging and dongle cables. Individual cable lengths are listed in Cables included.

Not available

Not available

Headset USB plug or portiUSB plug or port on the headset or its included wired audio adapter. A charging-only USB port can appear here.

USB-C8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/108364Read 8 October 2026

USB-C9Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118262Read 6 October 2026For AirPods Max equipped with a USB-C port, use a USB-C to USB-C cable or a USB-C to USB cable. The port is on the bottom of the right ear cup

Audio over USB-C cableiPlayback through a USB-C cable or included wired USB-C audio adapter. A charging-only USB-C port does not count.

Yes8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/108364Read 8 October 2026iPhone/iPad/Mac USB-C playback documented. Calls, Siri and Spatial Audio still require Bluetooth enabled.

Yes7Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2025/03/lossless-audio-and-ultra-low-latency-audio-come-to-airpods-maxRead 6 October 2026With the included USB-C cable, users can enjoy the highest-quality audio. Needs the April 2025 firmware. Ultra-low latency audio also needs the cable8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/104983Read 7 October 2026

Passive wired listeningiAnalog playback works with the headset powered off or its battery empty. An active analog converter that needs headset power does not count.

No19Reviewtechgearlab.com/reviews/audio/wireless-headphones/apple-airpods-max-2Read 8 October 2026Exact purchased Max 2 test states no passive playback when depleted. Not inferred from USB connector type.

Not available

Wireless receiveriDedicated wireless audio receiver or dongle. A wired USB sound card does not count.

None16Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/apple/airpods-max-2Read 8 October 2026Public exact review explicitly states no low-latency wireless dongle.

None1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026In the Box lists no dongle. The headset connects over Bluetooth

Wireless receiver connectoriPhysical USB connector on the receiver. Supplied extension cables and adapters are explained in the source note. Both means two native connector types.

Not available

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)iMaker’s advertised wireless range. Connection and indoor or outdoor conditions belong in the source note. Measured distance is not stored here.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth

5.32Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

5.01Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Bluetooth 5.0 wireless technology

Bluetooth codecsiNamed Bluetooth audio codecs supported by this exact model. Host, firmware and operating-mode restrictions belong in the source note.

SBC, AAC15Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-max-2-review-155613Read 8 October 2026Exact Max 2 connection section, no LDAC or aptX.

AAC, SBC24Reviewlesnumeriques.com/casque-nomade/apple-airpods-max-2024-p75573/test.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact 2024 USB-C review, updated April 7, 2025 for firmware 7E101. Characteristics table lists Codecs Bluetooth supportes: AAC, SBC. No codec is inferred from Bluetooth version.

LE AudioiLE Audio playback support. Bluetooth Low Energy for app control alone does not count.

No20Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-max-2-vs-apple-airpods-pro-2-157186Read 8 October 2026Exact Max 2 comparison explicitly excludes LE Audio and LC3. Current Apple firmware release notes through 9A348 document Custom EQ, not LE Audio. Bluetooth version alone was not used as proof.

No29Measurementtweakers.net/reviews/13628/bose-sony-of-toch-apple-negen-luxe-noisecancellinghoofdtelefoons-getest.htmlRead 7 October 2026Review published August 25,2025, updated September 17 for Sonos call prose. Its tested list includes the USB-C Max. Summary explicitly says LE Audio/LC3 are supported only by JBL and Sony among the tested headphones. Bluetooth Low Energy app/control radio is not LE Audio playback.

AuracastiAuracast broadcast audio support. Required phone, firmware and app conditions belong in the source note.

No20Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-max-2-vs-apple-airpods-pro-2-157186Read 8 October 2026Exact comparison expressly says both miss Auracast broadcasting. Apple Audio Sharing is a separate ecosystem feature.

No29Measurementtweakers.net/reviews/13628/bose-sony-of-toch-apple-negen-luxe-noisecancellinghoofdtelefoons-getest.htmlRead 7 October 2026Connectivity table, Apple AirPods Max row: Auracast Nee.

Bluetooth multipointiCan remain connected to multiple Bluetooth source devices at once. Mixing Bluetooth with a proprietary dongle is a separate field. A maker's dual connection to two Bluetooth devices at once counts.

Not available

Not available

Multipoint devicesiNumber of Bluetooth source devices connected at once, not the number remembered for later pairing.

Not available

Not available

Paired devices remembered

Not available

Not available

Mixes 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiPlays both wireless audio streams at the same time. Automatic switching or Bluetooth standby does not count.

Not available

Not available

Fast pairing

Not available

Not available

Base station

Not available

Not available

Latency

None of 2 known

Low latency modeiA selectable mode intended to reduce audio delay. A low-latency connection without a distinct mode does not count.

Not available

Not available

Claimed latencyiMaker’s claimed delay for the stated connection and mode. Minimum claims and host restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Compatibility

1 of 3 differ

Compatible platformsiPlatforms with a documented audio path. This does not imply every connection or microphone function works. Platform editions must be checked individually.

iOS, macOS, Android9Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/104983Read 8 October 2026Exact named host routes. New Max 2 Apple functionality requires iOS/iPadOS 26.4+ and current firmware. No console or unnamed Windows support inferred.

iOS, macOS, Android1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026System Requirements list iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV and Apple Vision Pro. Works as Bluetooth headphones with non-Apple devices with limited functions8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/104983Read 7 October 2026Mac, Android and other non-Apple devices are named. Windows is not named

Connection per platformiOnly explicitly documented playback paths for the exact model. Microphone support is separate. Leave unknown microphone support omitted. An Xbox and a PlayStation edition of one headset can connect differently, so it is per variant.

AApple AirPods Max 2

Platform	Connection	Microphone works
iOS	Bluetooth	Yes
iOS	USB	Not available
macOS	Bluetooth	Yes
macOS	USB	No
Android	Bluetooth	Yes
Android	USB	Not available
Android	Analog	Not available

Source9Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/104983Read 8 October 2026Current exact Max 2 support: Mac and Android USB audio, Android Bluetooth listen-and-talk, Android 12+ analog with separately purchased cable. iPhone paths from exact 108364. Mac wired calls explicitly require Bluetooth and public RTINGS test found no laptop USB microphone. Unknown iOS/Android USB microphone support omitted.16Reviewrtings.com/headphones/reviews/apple/airpods-max-2Read 8 October 2026Public exact review reports USB microphone not working with laptops including MacBooks. Only the Mac USB row receives false. Other routes remain maker-supported. Detailed measurements and firmware are membership-locked and were not accessed.

BApple AirPods Max (USB-C)

Platform	Connection	Microphone works
iOS	Bluetooth	Not available
macOS	Bluetooth	Not available
macOS	USB	Not available
Android	Bluetooth	Yes
Android	USB	Not available
Android	Analog	Not available

Source8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/104983Read 7 October 2026Mac and Android with a USB-C port over the included USB-C to USB-C cable. Android 12 or later with the USB-C to 3.5 mm Audio Cable. Bluetooth with iPhone, Mac and non-Apple devices. Apple says to turn on Bluetooth on a Mac to make audio calls while wired, so microphone support over the cable is not stored. The non-Apple Bluetooth setup section explicitly says users can listen and talk, and names Android. This proves microphone support for the Android Bluetooth row only.

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

1 of 13 differ

Battery capacityiRated capacity of one headset battery. Do not use case, receiver or total multi-battery capacity.

Not available

Not available

Swappable batteryiBattery can be exchanged by the user as part of normal operation. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

No12Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/airpods/important-safety-and-handling-information-dev4744b22af/webRead 8 October 2026Current guide explicitly restricts battery repair to a trained technician. Battery disposal and repair teardown do not establish normal user swapping.

No25Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/airpods/important-safety-and-handling-information-dev4744b22af/webRead 7 October 2026Safety guide says AirPods and case batteries should only be repaired by a trained technician. This excludes user battery exchanges during normal operation. Service disassembly is not treated as a swappable battery.

Batteries includediNumber of headset batteries supplied, including the one already installed.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiMaker’s maximum playback time per stated connection, codec, ANC, spatial audio and lighting settings. Name the spatial processing mode and other conditions in the source note. Unknown settings stay omitted.

AApple AirPods Max 2

Connection	ANC	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	Yes	20

Source2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026Maker maximum. January/February 2026 preproduction Max 2 with iPhone 17 Pro Max, prerelease software, 256 kbps AAC tracks, volume 50%, ANC enabled and fixed Spatial Audio. Full depletion to stopped playback.

BApple AirPods Max (USB-C)

Connection	ANC	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	Yes	20

Source1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Up to 20 hours of listening time with pro-level Active Noise Cancellation enabled. Apple test July and August 2024 with iPhone 16 Pro Max, 256 kbps AAC tracks, volume 50%, Spatial Audio set to fixed. No figure with ANC off is published

Battery life (claimed, max)

20h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

20h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Battery life with ANC (claimed)

20h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

20h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Battery life without ANC (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Charging port

USB-C2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

USB-C1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Charging via USB-C9Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118262Read 6 October 2026Plug the USB-C cable that came with AirPods Max into the bottom-right ear cup

Full charge timeiPublished time to fully charge a depleted headset. In-use charging can take longer.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge timeiCharge duration in the maker’s quick-charge claim. Read together with Quick charge playback.

5min2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

5min1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026

Quick charge playbackiPlayback gained from Quick charge time. Charger power, codec, volume and ANC conditions belong in the source note.

1.5h2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026Around 1.5 h after 5 min charging depleted headset. March 2026 preproduction Max 2 with iPhone 15 Pro Max, prerelease software, 256 kbps AAC tracks, volume 50%, ANC and fixed Spatial Audio.

1.5h1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 20265 minutes of charge time provides around 1.5 hours of listening time

Use while charging

Not available

Not available

Charging dock or stand

Not available

Sold separately27Maker product pagemophie.com/products/max-headphones-charging-standRead 7 October 2026Third-party mophie Max Charging Stand is sold separately for AirPods Max USB-C, explicitly excluding Lightning. It uses a supplied USB-C magnetic dongle and charging pins. The headphone does not acquire built-in Qi charging. The accessory was launched in September 2025, before Max 2.33Press articlemacrumors.com/2025/09/03/mophie-airpods-max-charging-standRead 7 October 2026Contemporaneous September 3,2025 launch explicitly identifies a separately purchased mophie stand for USB-C AirPods Max, before 2026 Max 2. Actual maker product page names the non-Lightning USB-C model. Magnetic dongle uses charging contacts, not built-in headset Qi.

Controls

0 of 6 differ

Controls

Buttons, Volume wheel2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Buttons, Volume wheel1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Digital Crown (turn for volume, press for media and calls) and listening mode button

Volume control

Wheel2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Wheel1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Digital Crown: turn for volume control

Game and chat mixiBalances separate game and chat audio streams. Mixing Bluetooth and dongle source volume alone does not count. Supported platforms belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Remappable controlsiOn-device button, touch or dial functions can be reassigned. Changing EQ alone does not count.

Yes8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/108364Read 8 October 2026User can reverse Crown volume direction and select listening-mode button cycle.

Yes10Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-us/guide/airpods/change-settings-for-airpodsmax-dev3e3e8821d/webRead 6 October 2026You can change the Digital Crown direction, choose the modes the listening mode button cycles through, and swap the end call and mute actions

Wear detection

Yes8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/108364Read 8 October 2026Removal pauses audio, replacement within 15 seconds resumes. Lifting one earphone also pauses.

Yes10Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-us/guide/airpods/change-settings-for-airpodsmax-dev3e3e8821d/webRead 6 October 2026Your AirPods Max automatically stop playing audio when you take them off, and resume playback when you put them back on. Automatic Head Detection can be turned off

Voice assistant

Siri2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

Siri1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Press and hold the Digital Crown for Siri. Say Hey Siri

Comfort and build

2 of 11 differ

Headband type

Not available

Not available

Headband material

Not available

Thermoplastic polyurethane and polyester12Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/101598Read 6 October 2026Thermoplastic polyurethane and polyester headband. This line covers all AirPods Max headphones

Frame material

Stainless steel14Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1959755-REG/apple_mhwk4am_a_airpods_max_2_wireless.htmlRead 8 October 2026Exact build description, corroborated by Apple engineering interview reported by TechRadar.

Stainless steel12Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/101598Read 6 October 2026Stainless steel sliding arms

Ear cup material

Anodized aluminum14Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1959755-REG/apple_mhwk4am_a_airpods_max_2_wireless.htmlRead 8 October 2026

Anodized aluminum12Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/101598Read 6 October 2026Anodized aluminum earcups

Ear pad material

Textile-covered memory foam14Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1959755-REG/apple_mhwk4am_a_airpods_max_2_wireless.htmlRead 8 October 2026Exact product narrative. B&H dimensions conflict with labelled Apple body dimensions and are not used. B&H generic multipoint number is not used as proof of concurrent Bluetooth sources.

PET textile-covered polyurethane memory foam12Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/101598Read 6 October 2026PET textile-covered polyurethane memory foam headphone cushion

Replaceable ear pads

Yes13Reviewifixit.com/Device/AirPods_Max_2Read 8 October 2026

Yes13Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/MA6C4ZM/A/airpods-max-ear-cushions-midnightRead 6 October 2026Replacement ear cushions for AirPods Max. Compatibility lists AirPods Max 2, AirPods Max and AirPods Max (Lightning Connector)

Ear pad attachmentiHow a replacement ear pad attaches to the ear cup, not how the decorative outer cover attaches. A press-fit or snap-on pad counts as clip.

Magnetic13Reviewifixit.com/Device/AirPods_Max_2Read 8 October 2026Exact identification section specifies magnetic cushions.

Magnetic26Reviewpickr.com.au/reviews/2025/apple-airpods-max-usb-cRead 7 October 2026August 7, 2025 review of the actual blue USB-C review unit: easily replaced magnetically-mounted fabric pads. Shared cup design is unchanged across the five colour variants.32Reviewtweakers.net/reviews/13628/bose-sony-of-toch-apple-negen-luxe-noisecancellinghoofdtelefoons-getest.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact USB-C repairability paragraph explicitly says ear cushions attach magnetically and are easily exchanged. Physical colour variants share the maker-defined cup design.

Ear pad openingiUsable opening inside an ear pad, excluding the outer cushion. Depth is the internal space between pad surface and driver cover.

Not available

Not available

Ear tips included

Not available

Not available

Dust and water rating

Not available

Not available

User-replaceable parts

Ear cushions13Reviewifixit.com/Device/AirPods_Max_2Read 8 October 2026Easy removable cushions independently corroborated by exact SoundGuys Max 2 review. Batteries are technician-only per Apple.

Ear cushions13Maker product pageapple.com/shop/product/MA6C4ZM/A/airpods-max-ear-cushions-midnightRead 6 October 2026AirPods Max Ear Cushions sold as a replacement part

Software

0 of 3 differ

Companion app

Not available

Not available

App platforms

Not available

Not available

User firmware updates

Yes8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/108364Read 8 October 2026Current firmware required by wired-audio setup.18Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/106340Read 8 October 2026Current exact Max 2 firmware 9A348 is listed. Update by charging in Bluetooth range of a Wi-Fi-connected iPhone/iPad/Mac. Apple service can update when no Apple host is available.

Yes8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/104983Read 7 October 2026Update your AirPods Max to the most recent firmware version

Dimensions and weight

0 of 2 differ

Headset weightiPublished headset mass without detachable cable or microphone when stated. A fixed cable remains included. Any unqualified maker weight is identified in the source note.

386.2g(13.6 oz)2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026Headset including cushions, excludes 134.5 g Smart Case.

386.2g(13.6 oz)1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026386.2 grams, including cushions

Headset dimensionsiBody size with headband upright and ear cups in their normal wearing position. Width is across the head, height is top to bottom, and depth is front to back. Folded or flat-swivel dimensions are not substituted.

Width168.6Height187.3Depth83.4mm(6.6 × 7.4 × 3.3 in)2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026Maker labelled upright headset axes including cushions.

Width168.6Height187.3Depth83.4mm(6.6 × 7.4 × 3.3 in)1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Including cushions: width 168.6 mm, depth 83.4 mm, height 187.3 mm. Smart Case weighs 134.5 g and is not included in the headset weight

Certifications

1 of 3 differ

Hi-Res Audio

Not available

Not available

Communication certifications

Not available

Not available

FCC ID

BCG-A345417Regulatory filingfccid.io/BCG-A3454Read 8 October 2026Public grant maps exact A3454 to Apple AirPods Max. Grant date March 16, 2026 is certification, not retail. Internal photos/manual links requested human verification or returned unavailable, so no protected body or battery label data used.

BCG-A318428Regulatory filingapi.att.gob.bo/numequip/uploads/ATT-DTLTIC-RA-H-TL%20LP%20663_2024.PDFRead 7 October 2026Official ATT Bolivia certificate, September 20, 2024, annex page 3: Apple model A3184, FCC certificate BCG-A3184. The document calls the product AirPods Max 2nd Gen, but the exact A3184 identity is the 2024 H1 USB-C refresh, not the 2026 A3454 Max 2. Downloaded PDF extracted with pdftotext.

Other certifications

Not available

Certificado de Homologación No. 663/202428Regulatory filingapi.att.gob.bo/numequip/uploads/ATT-DTLTIC-RA-H-TL%20LP%20663_2024.PDFRead 7 October 2026Official ATT Bolivia Certificado de Homologacion No. 663/2024 for Apple A3184. Issued September 20, 2024, valid until September 19, 2029. This is regulatory approval, not a communication-app certification or evidence of retail market availability.

In the box

2 of 3 differ

In the box

AirPods Max 2, Smart Case, USB-C Charge Cable, Documentation2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026

AirPods Max 1 (USB-C), Smart Case, USB-C Charge Cable, Documentation1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026In the Box: AirPods Max 1 (USB-C), Smart Case, USB-C Charge Cable, Documentation

Cables includediSupplied playback, charging, dongle and adapter cables. A permanently attached headset cable is included and named as fixed.

AApple AirPods Max 2

Type	Count
USB-C to USB-C charging and audio cable	1

Source2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026Included USB-C cable carries charging and audio. Its length is not published by Apple.

BApple AirPods Max (USB-C)

Type	Count
USB-C to USB-C charge cable	1

Source7Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2025/03/lossless-audio-and-ultra-low-latency-audio-come-to-airpods-maxRead 6 October 2026The included USB-C cable is used for wired lossless audio. Apple does not publish its length8Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/104983Read 7 October 2026Use the included USB-C to USB-C cable15Press articlenotebookcheck.net/AirPods-Max-refresh-brings-new-colors-and-a-switch-to-USB-C.886432.0.htmlRead 6 October 2026Buyers get a braided USB-C charge cable in the box, not a Lightning to USB-C cable. Save for the new colors and port, nothing has changed

Carrying caseiSupplied carrying case or pouch. A retail carton does not count as a carrying case.

Soft15Reviewsoundguys.com/apple-airpods-max-2-review-155613Read 8 October 2026Included soft Smart Case covers cups, leaves canopy exposed. Exact review describes limited protective coverage.

Soft14Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2020/12/apple-introduces-airpods-max-the-magic-of-airpods-in-a-stunning-over-ear-designRead 6 October 2026Soft, slim Smart Case. The USB-C model also ships with a Smart Case

Links

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Product page

www.apple.com/airpods-max3Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-maxRead 8 October 2026

support.apple.com/en-us/1212051Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026Exact maker product information page: AirPods Max 1 (USB-C), year introduced 2024. The current Apple marketing page describes AirPods Max 2 instead.

Spec sheet

www.apple.com/airpods-max/specs2Maker product pageapple.com/airpods-max/specsRead 8 October 2026Exact current Max 2 maker specs and notes. No acoustic range, electrical impedance/sensitivity, battery pack capacity, full-charge time, supplied cable length or voice-capsule electrical specification found. Exact iFixit/credible reviews and public RTINGS were checked. Original Max 1 teardown and protected FCC bodies were not transferred.

support.apple.com/en-us/1212051Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/121205Read 7 October 2026AirPods Max 1 (USB-C) - Tech Specs. Year introduced: 2024

Manual

support.apple.com/guide/airpods/welcome/web7Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/airpods/welcome/webRead 8 October 2026Current original Apple user guide. Exact Max controls, settings, host setup, Custom EQ and safety sections were read, not a standalone PDF.

support.apple.com/guide/airpods/welcome/web10Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-us/guide/airpods/change-settings-for-airpodsmax-dev3e3e8821d/webRead 6 October 2026AirPods User Guide, which covers AirPods Max 1 and AirPods Max 2

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

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Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year14Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1959755-REG/apple_mhwk4am_a_airpods_max_2_wireless.htmlRead 8 October 2026Included limited one-year manufacturer warranty, not retailer protection plan.

1year19Maker product pageapple.com/legal/warranty/products/accessory-warranty-english.htmlRead 7 October 2026Apple One (1) Year Limited Warranty, Accessory, for Apple and Beats branded products. One year from original retail purchase. US MWW43AM/A retailer listing independently names Apple One (1) Year Limited Warranty for parts and labour. Stored maker warranty applies to the US reference, excluding statutory consumer rights and AppleCare.

Both are also in the API. Back to all headsets and headphones.