Device Radar logoDevice Radar

Earbuds spec cross-check · 2026-10-14

AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro 2

AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro 2 lines up the September 2024 AirPods Max with the September 2023 AirPods Pro 2. The spec score is a weighted share of comparable rows in the earbuds database.

Spec score

5.0 / 10

AirPods Max specs

Spec score

5.0 / 10

AirPods Pro 2 specs

AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro 2 is too close to call from published specs.

Spec sheet

AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro 2. Rows are scored only when both devices publish a comparable figure. This is a spec-sheet cross-check.
SpecAirPods MaxAirPods Pro 2
Noise controlActive noise cancellation and TransparencyTieActive noise cancellation and TransparencyTie
Earbud batteryUp to 20 hours with ANCLeadsUp to 6 hours with ANC
Case batteryNo charging case battery; Smart Case does not chargeUp to 30 hours with the case
Launch price$549$249Leads
ChipApple H1 on the USB-C refreshApple H2, USB-C case
Water resistanceNot ratedIP54

Who should buy which

Choose the AirPods Max if you want Apple audio. It leads on earbud battery.

Choose the AirPods Pro 2 if you want Apple audio. It leads on launch price.

Questions

Which is better, AirPods Max or AirPods Pro 2?

AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro 2 is too close to call from published specs.

AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro 2: which has the better noise control?

AirPods Max and AirPods Pro 2 tie on noise control. AirPods Max: Active noise cancellation and Transparency. AirPods Pro 2: Active noise cancellation and Transparency.

AirPods Max vs AirPods Pro 2: which has the better battery?

AirPods Max leads on battery. AirPods Max: Up to 20 hours with ANC. AirPods Pro 2: Up to 6 hours with ANC.

What did AirPods Max and AirPods Pro 2 cost?

AirPods Pro 2 leads on price. AirPods Max: $549. AirPods Pro 2: $249.

Related comparisons