Apple AirPods Max (USB‑C) vs Apple AirPods Pro (1st Generation)
Verdict: The AirPods Max provides superior soundstage, 20‑hour battery life, and premium build, outperforming the 1st‑gen AirPods Pro which only offers 4.5 h of playback and a lighter in‑ear form factor. RTINGS rates the Max’s audio quality at 9.5/10 versus 7.0/10 for the Pro, while Wirecutter notes the Max’s ANC reduces ambient noise by 30 dB compared to the Pro’s 24 dB. However, the Max’s $549 price is a significant barrier for budget‑conscious users.
Winner: Apple AirPods Max (USB‑C)
Apple AirPods Max (USB‑C): 8.5/10
Apple AirPods Pro (1st Generation): 6.5/10
Spec-by-spec comparison
| Apple AirPods Max (USB‑C) | Apple AirPods Pro (1st Generation) | |
|---|---|---|
| Driver | 40 mm dynamic driver | 10 mm adaptive‑EQ driver |
| Battery life | 20 h (per Apple) | 4.5 h (per Apple) |
| Weight | 384 g | 5.4 g per earbud |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3, USB‑C charging | Bluetooth 5.0, Lightning charging |
Apple AirPods Max (USB‑C)
What works
- High‑fidelity audio with spatial audio
- Active Noise Cancellation with Transparency mode
Apple AirPods Pro (1st Generation)
What works
- Effective ANC for its size
Bottom line
Our pick: Apple AirPods Max (USB‑C).
View full comparison on GoodPickr
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