AirPods Max

AirPods Max 2Price, Specs, Battery Life & Noise Cancelling

Last updated

AirPods Max are Apple's over-ear headphones. AirPods Max 2 keep the knit mesh canopy, aluminum cups and Digital Crown, and move to the H2 chip, which brings Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation and Live Translation to the Max for the first time.
Released
Apr 1, 2026
Price
$549
BATTERY (ANC ON)
Up to 20 hrs
NOISE CANCELLING
Up to 1.5x the first Max
SEP 15 · LATEST ON AIRPODS MAX
AirPods firmware 9A348 adds custom EQ to Pro 3 and AirPods 4

If you own AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4 or AirPods Max 2, you can now tune the sound yourself and the setting travels with the earbuds. AirPods Pro 2 get the update but not the EQ, and you can't force the install.

Read the story →

Best for

anc.
Noise cancelling Apple rates up to 1.5x more effective than the first AirPods Max, plus Adaptive Audio.Confirmed: apple.com
Translation.
Live Translation with an Apple Intelligence iPhone, new to AirPods Max.Confirmed: apple.com
Sound quality.
24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio over USB-C and a new high dynamic range amplifier.Confirmed: apple.com

Comparison

Compare headphones

How it compares

Price

$549

What it costs to buy. None of these need a subscription.

Weight

386g

Grams on your head. Lower is lighter.

Battery life

~20 hrs

How long it lasts on its own, away from a charger.

Cost over 3 years

AirPods Max 2
$549
Nothing Headphone (1)
$299
Nothing Headphone (1) Pro
$399
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
$449
Sony WH-1000XM6
$459.99

Battery life

AirPods Max 2
~20 hrs
Beats Solo 4
~50 hrs
Beats Studio Pro
~40 hrs
Nothing Headphone (1)
~35 hrs
Beats 360
~32 hrs

Current list prices.

The headphones as worn, without the case.

Battery life can vary based on usage, settings and firmware version.

If not this one

AirPods Max is our pick for translation. Where it does not lead, here is what does, and why you would switch.

  • If it is mostly for musicAirPods 5

    It plays music in spatial audio tuned to a scan of your own ears.

    $129
  • If you want the deepest sleep dataSoundcore Sleep A30

    Built for sleeping in: about 3 grams per earbud, soft silicone, snore masking and sleep tracking.

    $199.99
  • If it is mostly for travelBose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

    Up to 30 hours of battery, a fold-flat design and a carry case.

    $449

Most paired with

Everything it works with

What AirPods Max 2 work with

Works with iPhone. It also works with Android, with some limits.

Do AirPods Max 2 work with Android?

With a limit

AirPods Max 2 work as Bluetooth headphones with Android phones, but Apple says functionality may be limited on non-Apple devices: the Apple-only features need an Apple device.

What works
Listening and calls as standard Bluetooth headphones.
Good to know
Apple says functionality may be limited with non-Apple devices; Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Live Translation and Personalized Spatial Audio need Apple devices.
See details and sources (1)

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Do AirPods Max 2 work with iPhone?

Works

AirPods Max 2 are made for iPhone. Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness need iOS 26.4 or later, and Live Translation needs an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence.

What you need
iPhone with the latest version of iOS; iOS 26.4 or later for Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness.
See details and sources (2)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    Available on AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with compatible devices running iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, or macOS 26.4 and later.
    AirPods can be used as wireless Bluetooth headphones with Apple devices using earlier software and with non-Apple devices, but functionality may be limited.
    Ultra-low latency audio and Lossless Audio listening requires a wired USB‑C connection and compatible content from supported apps and services.
    Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
  • Apple: Apple introduces AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone running iOS 26 and later.
    the new AirPods Max support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected with the included USB-C cable

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Do AirPods Max 2 work with Mac?

Works

AirPods Max 2 work with Mac models running the latest macOS, and switch automatically between your Mac and iPhone.

What you need
Mac with the latest version of macOS.
See details and sources (2)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    Available on AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with compatible devices running iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, or macOS 26.4 and later.
    iPad models with the latest version of iPadOS
    Mac models with the latest version of macOS
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    If you’re playing music on your Mac, you’ll be able to answer a call on your iPhone — without having to switch devices.
    Using built‑in gyroscopes and accelerometers, AirPods Max and your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV track the subtle motion of your head, anchoring sounds to your device.
    The USB‑C connector lets you charge your AirPods Max 2 with the same cable that charges your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other Apple devices.

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Quick answers

All FAQs

Quick answers

How much do AirPods Max 2 cost?
$549 at Apple's US store, in midnight, starlight, orange, purple and blue. That is the same price the first AirPods Max launched at in 2020.
What is new in AirPods Max 2?
The H2 chip. Apple rates the noise cancelling up to 1.5x more effective than the previous generation, adds a new high dynamic range amplifier, and brings Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation and Live Translation to AirPods Max for the first time. Camera remote and studio-quality audio recording are new too.
How long does the AirPods Max 2 battery last?
Apple rates AirPods Max 2 at up to 20 hours of listening on a single charge with noise cancelling on. A 5-minute charge gives around 1.5 hours of listening.

Get AirPods Max updates

Email me when there's news.

Works with

With a limit

AirPods Max 2 work as Bluetooth headphones with Android phones, but Apple says functionality may be limited on non-Apple devices: the Apple-only features need an Apple device.

What works
Listening and calls as standard Bluetooth headphones.
Good to know
Apple says functionality may be limited with non-Apple devices; Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Live Translation and Personalized Spatial Audio need Apple devices.
See details and sources (1)

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Works

AirPods Max 2 work with iPad models running the latest iPadOS.

What you need
iPad with the latest version of iPadOS.
See details and sources (1)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    Available on AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with compatible devices running iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, or macOS 26.4 and later.
    iPad models with the latest version of iPadOS
    Mac models with the latest version of macOS

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Works

AirPods Max 2 are made for iPhone. Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness need iOS 26.4 or later, and Live Translation needs an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence.

What you need
iPhone with the latest version of iOS; iOS 26.4 or later for Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness.
See details and sources (2)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    Available on AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with compatible devices running iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, or macOS 26.4 and later.
    AirPods can be used as wireless Bluetooth headphones with Apple devices using earlier software and with non-Apple devices, but functionality may be limited.
    Ultra-low latency audio and Lossless Audio listening requires a wired USB‑C connection and compatible content from supported apps and services.
    Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
  • Apple: Apple introduces AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone running iOS 26 and later.
    the new AirPods Max support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected with the included USB-C cable

Last checked 2026-10-10.

WorksWorked out from the maker's minimum

They work with every iPhone that runs iOS 26.4 or later, from the iPhone 11 on.

  • iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air and iPhone 17e: yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 16e: yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • iPhone SE (2nd generation) and iPhone SE (3rd generation): yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • iPhone 17 Pro: yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • iPhone 17 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • iPhone Air: yes, on iOS 26.4 or later
  • Any iPhone not listed: no, it cannot run that iOS version

Worked out from the maker's minimum ("iOS 26.4 or later") and Apple's list of the iPhones that run it, not a separate test. See the sources.

See details and sources (4)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    Available on AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with compatible devices running iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, or macOS 26.4 and later.
    AirPods can be used as wireless Bluetooth headphones with Apple devices using earlier software and with non-Apple devices, but functionality may be limited.
    Ultra-low latency audio and Lossless Audio listening requires a wired USB‑C connection and compatible content from supported apps and services.
    Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
  • Apple: Apple introduces AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone running iOS 26 and later.
    the new AirPods Max support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected with the included USB-C cable
  • Apple: iPhone models compatible with iOS 27 - Apple SupportFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-09-21
  • Apple: iPhone models compatible with iOS 26 - Apple SupportFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-09-21

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Works

AirPods Max 2 work with Mac models running the latest macOS, and switch automatically between your Mac and iPhone.

What you need
Mac with the latest version of macOS.
See details and sources (2)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    Available on AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with compatible devices running iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, or macOS 26.4 and later.
    iPad models with the latest version of iPadOS
    Mac models with the latest version of macOS
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    If you’re playing music on your Mac, you’ll be able to answer a call on your iPhone — without having to switch devices.
    Using built‑in gyroscopes and accelerometers, AirPods Max and your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV track the subtle motion of your head, anchoring sounds to your device.
    The USB‑C connector lets you charge your AirPods Max 2 with the same cable that charges your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other Apple devices.

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Most paired with

Do AirPods Max 2 work with Android?

With a limit

AirPods Max 2 work as Bluetooth headphones with Android phones, but Apple says functionality may be limited on non-Apple devices: the Apple-only features need an Apple device.

What works
Listening and calls as standard Bluetooth headphones.
Good to know
Apple says functionality may be limited with non-Apple devices; Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Live Translation and Personalized Spatial Audio need Apple devices.
See details and sources (1)

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Do AirPods Max 2 work with iPhone?

Works

AirPods Max 2 are made for iPhone. Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness need iOS 26.4 or later, and Live Translation needs an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence.

What you need
iPhone with the latest version of iOS; iOS 26.4 or later for Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness.
See details and sources (2)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    Available on AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with compatible devices running iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, or macOS 26.4 and later.
    AirPods can be used as wireless Bluetooth headphones with Apple devices using earlier software and with non-Apple devices, but functionality may be limited.
    Ultra-low latency audio and Lossless Audio listening requires a wired USB‑C connection and compatible content from supported apps and services.
    Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
  • Apple: Apple introduces AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone running iOS 26 and later.
    the new AirPods Max support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected with the included USB-C cable

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Do AirPods Max 2 work with Mac?

Works

AirPods Max 2 work with Mac models running the latest macOS, and switch automatically between your Mac and iPhone.

What you need
Mac with the latest version of macOS.
See details and sources (2)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    Available on AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with compatible devices running iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, or macOS 26.4 and later.
    iPad models with the latest version of iPadOS
    Mac models with the latest version of macOS
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    If you’re playing music on your Mac, you’ll be able to answer a call on your iPhone — without having to switch devices.
    Using built‑in gyroscopes and accelerometers, AirPods Max and your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV track the subtle motion of your head, anchoring sounds to your device.
    The USB‑C connector lets you charge your AirPods Max 2 with the same cable that charges your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other Apple devices.

Last checked 2026-10-10.

What you need

Do AirPods Max 2 work with Android?

With a limit

AirPods Max 2 work as Bluetooth headphones with Android phones, but Apple says functionality may be limited on non-Apple devices: the Apple-only features need an Apple device.

What works
Listening and calls as standard Bluetooth headphones.
Good to know
Apple says functionality may be limited with non-Apple devices; Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Live Translation and Personalized Spatial Audio need Apple devices.
See details and sources (1)

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Do AirPods Max 2 work with iPhone?

Works

AirPods Max 2 are made for iPhone. Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness need iOS 26.4 or later, and Live Translation needs an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence.

What you need
iPhone with the latest version of iOS; iOS 26.4 or later for Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness.
See details and sources (2)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    Available on AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with compatible devices running iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, or macOS 26.4 and later.
    AirPods can be used as wireless Bluetooth headphones with Apple devices using earlier software and with non-Apple devices, but functionality may be limited.
    Ultra-low latency audio and Lossless Audio listening requires a wired USB‑C connection and compatible content from supported apps and services.
    Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
  • Apple: Apple introduces AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone running iOS 26 and later.
    the new AirPods Max support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected with the included USB-C cable

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Do AirPods Max 2 work with Mac?

Works

AirPods Max 2 work with Mac models running the latest macOS, and switch automatically between your Mac and iPhone.

What you need
Mac with the latest version of macOS.
See details and sources (2)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    Available on AirPods Max 2 with the latest firmware when paired with compatible devices running iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, or macOS 26.4 and later.
    iPad models with the latest version of iPadOS
    Mac models with the latest version of macOS
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    If you’re playing music on your Mac, you’ll be able to answer a call on your iPhone — without having to switch devices.
    Using built‑in gyroscopes and accelerometers, AirPods Max and your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV track the subtle motion of your head, anchoring sounds to your device.
    The USB‑C connector lets you charge your AirPods Max 2 with the same cable that charges your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other Apple devices.

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Supports

With a limit

Lossless audio works over the included USB-C cable, at 24-bit, 48 kHz. It needs a wired USB-C connection and supported content, so not over Bluetooth.

What you need
A wired USB-C connection and compatible content from supported apps and services.
What works
24-bit, 48 kHz lossless and ultra-low latency audio over USB-C.
Good to know
Lossless and ultra-low latency audio require a wired USB-C connection.
See details and sources (2)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    AirPods can be used as wireless Bluetooth headphones with Apple devices using earlier software and with non-Apple devices, but functionality may be limited.
    Ultra-low latency audio and Lossless Audio listening requires a wired USB‑C connection and compatible content from supported apps and services.
    Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
  • Apple: Apple introduces AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    the new AirPods Max support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected with the included USB-C cable

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Works

Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking on iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV. Making a personal profile needs an iPhone with a TrueDepth camera.

What you need
An iPhone with a TrueDepth camera to create the personal profile.
See details and sources (2)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    AirPods can be used as wireless Bluetooth headphones with Apple devices using earlier software and with non-Apple devices, but functionality may be limited.
    iPad models with the latest version of iPadOS
    Ultra-low latency audio and Lossless Audio listening requires a wired USB‑C connection and compatible content from supported apps and services.
    Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    If you’re playing music on your Mac, you’ll be able to answer a call on your iPhone — without having to switch devices.
    Using built‑in gyroscopes and accelerometers, AirPods Max and your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV track the subtle motion of your head, anchoring sounds to your device.
    The USB‑C connector lets you charge your AirPods Max 2 with the same cable that charges your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other Apple devices.

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Works

Say "Siri" or "Hey Siri" hands-free, and answer Siri announcements by nodding or shaking your head.

See details and sources (2)

Last checked 2026-10-10.

How it works

Works

They charge over USB-C, with the same cable that charges an iPhone, iPad or Mac. A USB-C charge cable is in the box.

See details and sources (2)
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - Technical Specifications - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    iPhone models with the latest version of iOS
    iPad models with the latest version of iPadOS
  • Apple: AirPods Max 2 - AppleFrom the maker or platform · checked 2026-10-10
    If you’re playing music on your Mac, you’ll be able to answer a call on your iPhone — without having to switch devices.
    Using built‑in gyroscopes and accelerometers, AirPods Max and your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV track the subtle motion of your head, anchoring sounds to your device.
    The USB‑C connector lets you charge your AirPods Max 2 with the same cable that charges your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other Apple devices.

Last checked 2026-10-10.

Dec 8, 2020 · Announced
Apple introduces AirPods Max
Apple announced its first over-ear headphones, AirPods Max, with the H1 chip, noise cancelling and spatial audio, at $549.
Dec 15, 2020 · Went on sale
AirPods Max start shipping
The first AirPods Max began shipping on December 15, 2020.
Sep 9, 2024 · Announced
AirPods Max get USB-C and five new colors
Apple moved AirPods Max to USB-C charging in midnight, starlight, blue, purple and orange, still at $549.
Mar 24, 2025 · New feature
Lossless audio comes to AirPods Max over USB-C
Apple announced a free firmware update that added lossless and ultra-low latency audio over USB-C to AirPods Max.
Mar 16, 2026 · Announced
Apple announces AirPods Max 2
Apple announced AirPods Max 2 on the H2 chip, with stronger noise cancelling, Adaptive Audio and Live Translation, at $549.
Apr 2026 · Went on sale
AirPods Max 2 reach customers
Orders opened on March 25, 2026, and Apple put AirPods Max 2 in customers' hands and Apple Stores from early April.

Buying decision

AirPods Max
No rush
Apple

AirPods Max

No new model soon

We don't expect a newer model soon, so there's no reason to wait for one.

Full price everywhere

None of the stores we check has it on sale yet.

What would make this a buy?

A meaningful discount or a return to a well-supported past low would change this recommendation.

About Apple

Apple makes the iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods, and is known for hardware and software designed to work together.

Visit Apple
More from Apple we cover
AirPods 5AirPods Pro 3iPhone 17iPhone Air (1st gen)

Returns and warranty

Returns

14-day returns· the clock starts the day it arrives

  • Send it back like new

    Return it in its original condition with all included parts, accessories and packaging.

  • How you get your money back
    Card refunds go to your bank within five business days after Apple receives the item.
    Returns may be inspected; approved refunds or exchanges are issued within 10 business days. Cash returns over $750 are paid by check within 10 business days.

Warranty

1-year warranty· starts the day you buy it

Covered

  • Bands and accessories

    AirPods are covered by Apple's accessory warranty: defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of original retail purchase.

  • Battery covered only for defects
    The standard warranty covers a battery only if it fails from a defect.
    The 80 percent rule belongs to AppleCare, not to the free warranty: AppleCare plans cover batteries that keep less than 80% of their original capacity.

Not covered

  • Accidents and misuse
    Damage caused by accident, abuse, misuse, fire, earthquake or other external cause is not covered (iPhone, Vision Pro, Apple Watch).
    The AirPods warranty excludes damage from abuse, accident, modifications or unauthorized repairs.
  • Scratches and dents

    Cosmetic damage such as scratches, dents and broken plastic on ports is not covered unless it comes from a defect.

  • Normal wear and aging

    Defects caused by normal wear and tear or normal aging are not covered.

  • Repairs by other shops

    Damage from service by anyone who is not Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider is not covered.

  • How it gets fixed
    Apple chooses to repair, replace with the same model (or a similar one with your consent), or refund the purchase price.
    For mail-in service Apple sends prepaid waybills and pays shipping both ways if you follow its packing instructions.

Good to know

  • Engraved or personalized items

    Engraved items (Apple names AirPods and iPad) cannot be exchanged in store. They can only be returned for a refund.

  • Activation Lock / Find My

    If the security features are on and cannot be turned off by the person returning it, Apple may refuse the return.

  • Opened software

    Opened software, software downloads and gift cards cannot be returned.

When to buy

No new model is close, so there's no need to rush.

Price historyStill collecting (1 of 7 days)
Stores we check1Apple
On sale sinceApr 1, 2026

All headphones prices

How we read this
  • We read store prices every day and keep every read. The price shown is the newest read from the retailer named.
  • A read older than 36 hours is never shown as the current price. It reads "last seen" and carries no buy link.
  • “30-day low” is the lowest of our own reads for this product in the last 30 days, not a retailer’s claim. We print the number of reads beside it, and we say nothing about a low until a product has a week of reads.
  • “Lowest known”, where it appears, is older price history from published reports and imports. It is shown only when it is lower than the 30-day low, and it is not counted as reads.
  • The verdict is worked out from the price, the history and whether a newer model is coming. It never depends on who pays us.

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Frequently asked questions

Questions about AirPods Max

Top questions

How much do AirPods Max 2 cost?
$549 at Apple's US store, in midnight, starlight, orange, purple and blue. That is the same price the first AirPods Max launched at in 2020.
What is new in AirPods Max 2?
The H2 chip. Apple rates the noise cancelling up to 1.5x more effective than the previous generation, adds a new high dynamic range amplifier, and brings Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation and Live Translation to AirPods Max for the first time. Camera remote and studio-quality audio recording are new too.
How long does the AirPods Max 2 battery last?
Apple rates AirPods Max 2 at up to 20 hours of listening on a single charge with noise cancelling on. A 5-minute charge gives around 1.5 hours of listening.
What do I need for Live Translation on AirPods Max 2?
An iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence, running iOS 26 or later, with the latest AirPods firmware. Apple notes that Live Translation may not be available in every region or language.
Can AirPods Max 2 play lossless audio?
Yes, over a cable. With the included USB-C cable, AirPods Max 2 play 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio. Over Bluetooth they do not.
How heavy are AirPods Max 2?
386.2 grams (13.6 ounces) including the cushions. The Smart Case adds 134.5 grams (4.74 ounces).
What comes in the AirPods Max 2 box?
The headphones, the Smart Case, a USB-C charge cable and documentation. Storing them in the Smart Case puts them into an ultra-low-power state that preserves the charge.
How do AirPods Max 2 compare with the first AirPods Max?
Both launched at $549. The first AirPods Max arrived in December 2020 with the H1 chip. AirPods Max 2 use H2, with noise cancelling Apple rates up to 1.5x more effective, and add Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation and Live Translation. Apple rates both at up to 20 hours with noise cancelling on.
Can I use Siri hands-free on AirPods Max 2?
Yes. Say "Siri" or "Hey Siri" to play a song, make a call or get directions. You can also answer Siri announcements by nodding your head yes or shaking it no.
Do AirPods Max 2 have spatial audio?
Yes. Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, using gyroscopes and accelerometers to anchor sound to your iPhone, iPad, Mac or Apple TV. Creating a personal profile needs an iPhone with a TrueDepth camera.
Do AirPods Max 2 switch between my Apple devices?
Yes. With Automatic Switching, music playing on your Mac can give way to a call on your iPhone without switching devices by hand. They also pause when you take them off your head.

Using it

What does it cost?
Apple AirPods Max 2, the current model: it costs $549. That is the list price.
How heavy is it?
Apple AirPods Max 2, the current model: it weighs 386.2g.
Does it have noise cancelling?
Apple AirPods Max 2, the current model: yes, it cancels noise.
How does it connect?
Apple AirPods Max 2, the current model: it connects over Bluetooth 5.3.
What chip is inside?
Apple AirPods Max 2, the current model: it runs on Apple H2.
Does it do spatial audio?
Apple AirPods Max 2, the current model: yes, it does spatial audio.

Price and models

Is there a newer one?
No. The AirPods Max is the current model.
How much does the AirPods Max cost?
List price: $549. Current price we last read at Apple: $549, October 11, 2026.

Returns and warranty

How long do I have to return it?
14-day returns The clock starts the day it arrives.
Is there a restocking fee?
Restocking fee: not stated by Apple
Who pays return shipping?
Who pays return shipping: not stated by Apple Start the return online and print a return label, then schedule a carrier pickup or drop it at the carrier. You can also return it at any U.S. Apple Store.
Can I return it if I opened or wore it?
Send it back like new Return it in its original condition with all included parts, accessories and packaging.
How do I get my money back?
How you get your money back Card refunds go to your bank within five business days after Apple receives the item. Returns may be inspected; approved refunds or exchanges are issued within 10 business days. Cash returns over $750 are paid by check within 10 business days.
How long is the warranty?
1-year warranty Starts the day you buy it.
Is the battery covered?
Battery covered only for defects The standard warranty covers a battery only if it fails from a defect. The 80 percent rule belongs to AppleCare, not to the free warranty: AppleCare plans cover batteries that keep less than 80% of their original capacity.

Works with

Do AirPods Max 2 work with Mac?
Yes. AirPods Max 2 work with Mac models running the latest macOS, and switch automatically between your Mac and iPhone. Works
Do AirPods Max 2 support Spatial audio / head tracking?
Yes. Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking on iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV. Making a personal profile needs an iPhone with a TrueDepth camera. Works
Do AirPods Max 2 support Voice assistant / AI?
Yes. Say "Siri" or "Hey Siri" hands-free, and answer Siri announcements by nodding or shaking your head. Works

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