When Apple finally updated the AirPods Max at the early 2025 AirPods event, people were excited. The original AirPods Max were among the most expensive Bluetooth headphones ever released, and despite being on the market for four years, they hadn’t seen any significant updates. Yet, the long-awaited AirPods Max 2 turned out to be only minor improvements.
Apple announced the addition of USB-C support in compliance with EU regulations, aligning the AirPods Max 2 with the rest of Apple’s product lineup. They also introduced a few new colors. However, beyond these changes, there was little else: no new design featuring lighter construction, no enhancement in noise-canceling capabilities, no audio improvements, and no changes to the core drivers. Additionally, the headphones still do not fold. Notably, Apple did not introduce a new carrying case, despite longstanding criticism of the included leather “bra”-style pouch.
For many, this made the AirPods Max 2 a disappointing release. However, if you’re an Apple user looking for headphones that feel exceptionally premium, look stunning, sound fantastic, and rival the best in noise-canceling technology, it’s hard to complain.
### Design and Build Quality
Many perceived flaws of the AirPods Max come down to design choices and compromises that set them apart from competitors. The headphones are neither as lightweight nor foldable like Bose or Sony models because Apple opts for premium materials such as brushed aluminum for the cups and buttons instead of plastics. While they lack a protective carrying case, the unique “bra” design may be less protective but is easy to slip on and convenient for everyday use.
### Controls and User Experience
One of the standout features of the AirPods Max is their intuitive control scheme. While I personally prefer the slightly more complex controls on the Nothing Headphones (1), the AirPods Max rank a close second. They utilize a version of the Apple Watch dial for play, pause, and volume controls, complemented by a second long-press button for toggling noise-canceling and transparency modes.
### Sound Quality and Performance
Though updates have been minimal, the underlying formula remains superb. The AirPods Max drivers deliver fantastic sound with a wide, bright, and vocal-centric tuning right out of the box. The sound profile is relatively balanced and neutral enough to please most listeners, despite lacking an EQ customization option.
In terms of overall sound quality, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen. 2 currently holds the top spot for Bluetooth headphones, provided you set aside the exceptional but less reliable $1,549 Bang & Olufsen H100. Still, the AirPods Max are competitive, and your personal taste will ultimately decide which you prefer.
### Noise Cancellation and Ambient Sound
When it comes to noise cancellation, Bose remains the undisputed leader in the market, and the AirPods Max don’t quite reach that level. However, the AirPods Max shine with the best ambient sound mode available. If you can overlook their weight, transparency mode makes it feel like you’re not even wearing headphones during conversations.
### New Features
It’s not entirely accurate to say the AirPods Max 2 received no changes. The headphones now support Lossless Audio when connected via USB-C, enabling users to take advantage of one of the best features of Apple Music.
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In conclusion, while the AirPods Max 2 may not offer revolutionary updates, their premium materials, excellent sound quality, superior ambient sound mode, and seamless Apple ecosystem integration keep them a compelling choice for those invested in Apple’s products.
https://www.nysun.com/article/airpods-max-are-still-the-best-premium-headphones