Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Apple AirPods (2nd generation)
Apple AirPods Max 2 ($549) vs Apple AirPods (2nd generation) ($34) — side-by-side specs, weight, pros and cons to help you pick the right over-ear.
Spec-by-spec
| Spec | Apple AirPods Max 2 | Apple AirPods (2nd generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $549 | $34 |
| Weight | 386.2g | 46.2g |
| Battery | 20h | 5h per charge, 24h with case |
| Charging | USB-C | Lightning or Qi wireless case |
| ANC | Yes | — |
| Weight | 385g | 46.2g (Apple published: 4g bud x2 + 38.2g case) |
| Chip | — | Apple H1 |
| Fit | — | One-size, non-sealed |
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods Max 2
- Incredible build
- Lossless wired
- Best-in-class ANC
- Heavy
- No aux included
Apple AirPods (2nd generation)
- H1 chip adds hands-free Hey Siri
- Optional wireless charging case, a real upgrade over 1st gen
- Same reliable instant pairing
- Still among the lightest true wireless buds sold
- No ANC or Transparency mode
- Sound is basic, no bass to speak of
- Non-sealed fit leaks audio and outside noise equally
- Battery health on a used pair is a gamble
Apple AirPods (2nd generation) is the better value at $34. Both are part of our curated over-ear index — tap through to check current pricing.