€579 for headphones: are the AirPods Max worth it?
€579 for a pair of headphones. That's what Apple is asking for the AirPods Max. In return, you get premium sound, active noise cancellation, and that signature Apple feel. It's understandable you're hesitant. For that price, you could also buy a decent smartphone or a weekend getaway. Yet, they're selling like hotcakes. Not just among Apple enthusiasts, but especially among people who normally find their AirPods expensive.
The secret? AirPods Max aren't worth the money for everyone—but for a specific group of users, they're indispensable. Think frequent flyers seeking peace and quiet, home workers in noisy households, or audiophiles unwilling to compromise. And with refurbished models or smart accessories to protect them, that investment suddenly becomes much more worthwhile. The question isn't whether they're too expensive, but for whom they'll more than make up for their money .
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Who are the AirPods Max really worth it for?
The €579 price tag is a turn-off for many, but for specific users, these headphones are worth their price. Frequent flyers will benefit most from the superior noise cancellation during long flights. The difference from regular noise-cancelling headphones is most noticeable in engine noise and cabin noise. Home workers in busy households can completely block out ambient noise, which noticeably increases productivity.
Audiophiles unwilling to compromise on sound quality will find this model a worthy alternative to wired studio headphones. The specially designed driver delivers a frequency response that will satisfy even the most critical listeners. Content creators and video editors benefit from the accurate reproduction when reviewing audio mixes.
Technical specifications that make the difference
The H1 chip in each earcup delivers more than just efficient operation. This processor enables real-time audio processing, resulting in more natural-sounding noise cancellation. Where competitors sometimes create a "vacuum" feeling, this model maintains a natural sound balance.
Transparency mode deserves special mention. Unlike many other models, your surroundings aren't artificially amplified. This makes it practically feasible to have conversations without removing your headphones. Automatic switching between Apple devices works seamlessly: start a phone call on your iPhone while listening to music on your MacBook, and the audio switches instantly.
Comfort during long-term use
At 385 grams, it's heavier than competitors, but the weight distribution is well-designed. The mesh-covered headband distributes pressure evenly across your head. The memory foam ear cushions conform to your head shape without exerting excessive pressure. Glasses wearers report less discomfort than with comparable models in this price range.
Comparison with direct competitors
The Sony WH-1000XM4 (around €300) offers excellent noise cancellation at a lower price. The sound is warm and pleasant, but lacks the analytical precision of Apple's model. Their 30-hour battery life easily surpasses the 20 hours of the AirPods Max. For Android users, the Sony's option makes more sense due to its better integration.
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 (around €350) excel in phone quality thanks to their superior microphone system. The noise cancellation is adjustable in ten levels, offering greater flexibility. Comfort is excellent, but the sound signature is more neutral and less immersive than the other two options.
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 (around €280) delivers audiophile sound quality at a more competitive price. The 60-hour battery life is unparalleled in this class. The downside: the build quality feels less premium, and the software integration is basic compared to Apple's ecosystem.
Practical considerations for purchasing
The Smart Case deserves criticism. It only protects the earcups, not the delicate headband. Therefore, invest in a decent aftermarket protective case for transport. The headband mesh is prone to discoloration with heavy use; regular cleaning with a soft brush prevents this.
The battery lasts about 20 hours with noise cancellation enabled. This is sufficient for most use cases, but less than some competitors offer. Charging via Lightning cable takes about two hours for a full charge. A five-minute charge provides an hour and a half of listening time—handy for emergencies.
Refurbished as a smart alternative
Refurbished models offer the same functionality at a significantly lower price. When purchasing, pay attention to the condition of the ear cushions and headband, as these components wear out the fastest. Check that all sensors are working: the automatic pause function when you take the headphones off is a good test.
The warranty period for refurbished models varies by provider. Professional refurbishers usually offer a minimum six-month warranty. Check whether firmware updates are still supported; Apple generally guarantees five years of software support from the date of launch.
Use cases where the model excels
In open-plan offices, active noise cancellation effectively blocks out the chatter of colleagues. Transparency mode allows you to quickly switch to a conversation when someone speaks to you. For conference calls, the microphone sound quality is more than adequate, although dedicated headsets perform better.
They're less suitable for sports due to their weight and limited sweat resistance. This isn't a problem for walks or light activities, but for intense training, sport-specific alternatives are recommended.
Spatial audio with head tracking creates a cinematic experience when watching movies on your iPad or MacBook. This feature only works with Apple devices and compatible content, but when available, the effect is impressive.
Accessories that protect your investment
A sturdy protective case is essential for transport. Hard-shell models offer the best protection against pressure in backpacks or suitcases. Replacement ear cushions cost around €70 per set – keep this in mind if you use them intensively.
A desk stand prevents the headband from stretching when not in use. This extends the lifespan and maintains the fit. Some stands have built-in charging capabilities, further simplifying desk use.
Conclusion: Who is the AirPods Max worth the investment for?
The AirPods Max don't justify their price tag for everyone, but for certain users, they're worth the investment. Frequent flyers, home workers, and audio enthusiasts will get the most out of them. Consider a refurbished pair if your budget is limited – the quality remains the same while saving you hundreds of euros.
Don't forget to invest in good accessories to protect your purchase. For those who are fully committed to the Apple ecosystem and don't want to compromise on sound quality, AirPods Max are a logical choice. For everyone else, there are excellent, less expensive alternatives.
