Apple AirPods Max 2

Fantastic sound and top-tier ANC are welcome in Apple’s second attempt at a pair of over-ear headphones to dethrone Bose and Sony, but too many of my issues with the first model remain. Where’s the power button? Why does the case look like that? The AirPods Max 2 are great; I just wish they were even better.

The AirPods Max 2 pair class-leading noise cancellation and excellent sound quality with a gorgeous design and unmatched Apple ecosystem integration, making them the best premium headphones for Apple users.

I’m glad Apple took six years to release the new AirPods Max 2, because this is how you do a comeback. Stuffed full of AirPods Pro-esque features like Head Gestures, Live Translation, Camera Remote, and improved Siri integration, you might be wondering if Apple has placed too much importance on its smart tech features and forgotten about the sound quality. They absolutely have not. The AirPods Max 2 sound rich, complex, and, most importantly, fun.

The H2 chip delivers a host of new features, but it’s time for a comprehensive redesign on these pricey headphones.

Apple’s over-ear headphones get the H2 chip and a new built-in amp for better sound and ANC along with new features, but they’re still heavy and expensive.

However, if higher fidelity in the context of gaming, TV and movie-watching, audio recording or editing, and Apple's list of smart features in an over-ear headphone checks every box on your headphones wishlist, you'll be happy with the AirPods Max 2.

Apple’s high-end headphones have a massive problem – and that is their premium price. It’s a real shame, because the AirPods Max 2 absolutely nail the experience in so many areas.

It looks like an incremental upgrade from the surface, but the upgrades under the skin of the new Apple AirPods Max 2 take Apple’s flagship headphones to the top of the market (where they’re priced).