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Looking for the best AirPods Max alternatives? Discover top-rated headphones offering similar sound quality, comfort, and features – often at a better price.
Looking for a high-end pair of wireless headphones like AirPods Max but don’t want to drop $549? You’re not alone. While Apple’s premium over-ear headphones boast excellent sound and noise cancellation, the price tag is steep. Luckily, there are plenty of AirPods Max alternatives delivering a similar experience for hundreds less.
We tested the top contenders to find the best options matching Max’s performance and comfort. Whether you want better value or additional features like workout-ready design or longer battery life, quality choices abound. Read on for our top picks of the best AirPods Max alternatives you can buy in 2023. We’ll compare key specs and features to help you decide which pair best fits your needs and budget.
Why Consider Alternatives to AirPods Max?
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| High Price | The AirPods Max are one of the most expensive wireless headphones on the market. |
| Limited Compatibility | AirPods Max does not support high-resolution audio codecs like LDAC, which some audiophiles may prefer. |
| Design Preferences | The AirPods Max design might not appeal to everyone, and some might find them bulky. |
| Sound Signature | Apple’s sound signature may not be preferred by everyone. Some users might prefer more bass or clarity. |
| Specific Needs | Other headphones might offer features that better suit your specific needs, such as longer battery life or superior noise cancellation. |
| Support for High-Res Audio | AirPods Max do not support high-resolution audio codecs like LDAC, which some audiophiles may prefer. |
| Variety of Options | Exploring alternatives allows you to find the perfect fit for your budget and preferences. |
Price
At $549, AirPods Max are expensive. You can find high-quality wireless headphones with comparable features for significantly less. If price is a concern, exploring lower-cost alternatives is worth considering.
Sound Quality
While AirPods Max earns high marks for sound quality and noise cancellation, other brands offer exceptional audio performance and ambient noise reduction for a fraction of the cost. Some options from reputable brands provide audiophile-level sound and advanced Bluetooth for under $300.
Comfort
Comfort is subjective, but some say the AirPods Max design causes discomfort during long listening sessions. The material and fit may not suit everyone. Trying on different styles and finding the right match for your ears’ size and shape can make a big difference.
Compatibility
AirPods Max only pair with Apple devices. If you own non-Apple gear like a PC, Android phone or tablet, the AirPods Max won’t work as a wireless option. Many alternative headphones are compatible across platforms so you can use them with all your devices.
Battery Life
While the AirPods Max battery lasts up to 20 hours per charge, other wireless headphones offer longer battery life, up to 40 hours in some cases. If you frequently use your headphones for extended periods or in places where recharging isn’t possible, maximum battery life may be a priority.
Customization
The AirPods Max have limited customization options. If you want to personalize your headphones with different colors or interchangeable parts, you may prefer a model with more possibilities for customization. Some brands offer a range of color choices, swappable ear pads, and more.
In summary, the AirPods Max are exceptional headphones but may not suit everyone’s needs or budget. Exploring reputable alternatives could lead you to a better match at a lower price. With many outstanding options available, you don’t have to pay a premium to experience high-quality sound.
The Top 7 AirPods Max Alternatives for 2024
Sony WH-1000XM4
Sony’s premium wireless headphones are comfortable, sound amazing, and offer best-in-class noise cancellation. For those seeking superb sound quality and comfort, the WH-1000XM4s are a superb choice. They provide crisp, full-range audio and plush ear pads so you can enjoy your music for hours. At around $350, they’re a bit cheaper than the AirPods Max too.
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
Bose is known for making some of the most effective noise-cancelling headphones, and their 700 model is a prime example. The sleek, lightweight design is comfortable for long listening sessions, and the 11 levels of noise cancellation allow you to block out as much ambient noise as you want. The audio quality is also fantastic, with clear highs, detailed midrange, and punchy bass. For those who want best-in-class noise cancellation, the 700s are a compelling alternative at $380.
Sennheiser Momentum 3
For audiophiles seeking a more natural, open sound, the Sennheiser Momentum 3 over-ear headphones are a superb choice. They produce a wide, spacious soundstage with crisp highs, warm midrange, and tight, controlled bass. The premium design is also comfortable and stylish. At $400, the Momentum 3 provides amazing sound quality for the money and is a solid alternative for those wanting a more balanced headphone experience.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7
The PX7s are Bowers & Wilkins’ flagship wireless ANC headphones, offering a sophisticated design, adjustable noise cancellation, and high-resolution sound. They have a neutral, balanced sound profile suited for all music genres. The build quality is also top-notch, with metal and leather components that feel luxurious. While a bit pricey at $400, the PX7s are an appealing AirPods Max alternative for those wanting premium build and sound.
Sony WH-1000XM5 – The Best Overall Alternative
If you’re looking for headphones that rival the AirPods Max in sound quality, comfort, and features, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is your best bet. Sony is known for making some of the best noise-canceling headphones, and the WH-1000XM5 is their latest and greatest model.
Superior sound
The WH-1000XM5 offers a beautifully balanced sound with punchy bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. Sony’s LDAC technology provides high-quality wireless audio that’s virtually indistinguishable from a wired connection. Whether you’re listening to pop, rock, classical, or hip-hop, your music will sound full, rich, and immersive.
Industry-leading noise cancellation
Sony’s noise-canceling technology is considered the best in the business, and the WH-1000XM5 delivers its most advanced noise cancellation yet. The headphones use a combination of feedback microphones and digital signal processing to block out ambient noise so you can enjoy your music without distraction.
The noise cancellation is so effective that you may not even hear people talking right next to you! You can also adjust the level of noise cancellation from full to none using the Sony headphones app.
All-day comfort
The WH-1000XM5 is one of the most comfortable pairs of headphones you’ll ever wear. They have a lightweight, ergonomic design with soft, memory foam ear pads and a padded headband. You can comfortably wear them for hours without fatigue. The ear cups also swivel and fold flat so you can easily pack them in your bag.
For similar sound quality, comfort, and features as the AirPods Max but at a lower price, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is a fantastic choice. They deliver an amazing listening experience with best-in-class noise cancellation, superior sound, and all-day comfort. The WH-1000XM5 provides professional-level audio for much less than the competition.
Bose QuietComfort 45 – Excellent Noise Cancelation
The Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45) is an excellent alternative if noise cancellation is a priority. Bose is known for industry-leading noise cancellation, and the QC45 is no exception.
Superb Noise Cancellation
The QC45 uses tiny microphones to measure, compare, and react to environmental noise. It then produces inverse sound waves to cancel out the unwanted noise so you can enjoy your audio without distraction.
The noise cancellation is so effective that you may not even realize sounds like traffic, loud chatter, and jet engines have been neutralized until you turn the headphones off. For frequent travelers, this level of noise cancellation can be a lifesaver.
Comfortable and Lightweight
Weighing just 8 ounces, the QC45 feels so light you may forget you have them on. The soft ear cushions nestle gently around your ears, while the padded headband distributes weight evenly. You can comfortably wear them for hours without fatigue. The ear cups also pivot and the headband adjusts for an ideal fit.
Great Sound Quality
While noise cancellation is the star of the show, the QC45 also delivers premium sound quality. The bass is full and impactful, the midrange is clear and natural, and the highs are crisp without harshness. The sound signature suits a wide range of genres from classical to hip hop. Volume-optimized EQ ensures your audio sounds are balanced even at lower volumes.
Other Useful Features
- •Up to 24 hours of wireless playback per charge.
- •Voice assistant access to Siri, Google Assistant or Alexa.
- •Wireless Bluetooth pairing and wired option.
- •Adjustable EQ to customize the sound.
- •Optional “Aware Mode” to let in some outside sound.
If you want best-in-class noise cancellation and plush comfort in a premium set of headphones, the Bose QuietComfort 45 should be at the top of your list. While the price tag is steep, frequent flyers and audiophiles alike will find the investment worthwhile. For most, the QC45 is a compelling AirPods Max alternative.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 Carbon – Great Sound and Comfort
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 Carbon headphones are a fantastic alternative to the AirPods Max. They produce high-quality, well-balanced sound and are supremely comfortable for long listening sessions.
Excellent Audio Performance
The PX7 Carbon features large 40mm dynamic drivers that deliver a wide, spacious soundstage. The bass is deep and punchy, the midrange is clear and natural, and the treble is crisp without being harsh. These headphones handle all music genres with ease. An ambient passthrough mode also allows some outside sound in so you can stay aware of your surroundings.
Premium Design and Build
Like the AirPods Max, the PX7 Carbon has a premium, stylish design. The ear cups are made of carbon fiber composite and aluminum, and the headband is wrapped in soft leather. The build quality is superb. The PX7 Carbon folds up for easy transport and storage in the included carrying case.
Long Battery Life and Fast Charging
You’ll get up to 30 hours of wireless playback on a single charge with these Bowers & Wilkins headphones. They also support quick charging – just 15 minutes of charging provides up to 6 hours of listening. The PX7 Carbon has all the wireless connectivity you need, including Bluetooth 5.0, aptX Adaptive for high-resolution streaming, and NFC for easy pairing.
Adjustable and Comfortable
The PX7 Carbon is designed for comfort. The ear cups rotate and the headband is adjustable so you can get the perfect fit. The ear pads are well-cushioned and the clamping force is relatively light, so these headphones remain comfortable even during long listening sessions. On-ear detection pauses your audio when you remove the headphones.
If you’re looking for a set of premium wireless headphones with sound quality and comfort to rival the AirPods Max, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 Carbon should be at the top of your list. They provide an outstanding listening experience at a lower cost.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks. Whether you’re looking for some budget-friendly options that won’t break the bank or some premium cans with all the bells and whistles, there are plenty of solid AirPods Max alternatives out there.
Just do your research, figure out your must-haves, set a budget, and find the pair that checks all your boxes. The options we covered today are just the tip of the iceberg. With so many awesome headphones on the market these days, you’re sure to find your perfect match. Happy listening!
