AirPods Max (2024) Review: USB-C and New Colors

The AirPods Max (2024) packaging remains largely unchanged from the 2020 original, with the headphones presented in a compact box that includes the iconic (and controversial) Smart Case, a USB-C cable, and documentation. The most immediate difference is the USB-C port on the right earcup - finally bringing the AirPods Max in line with Apple's broader USB-C transition. The new colors are genuinely attractive, with our Midnight unit offering a sophisticated dark blue that photographs black in many lighting conditions but reveals its blue tones in direct light. The aluminum and stainless steel construction remains impressive, with the mesh headband providing comfortable support and the Digital Crown offering tactile control. At 384 grams, these remain heavy headphones, though the weight distribution across the headband manages this well.

The USB-C port enables several improvements beyond mere charging convenience. Lossless audio is now possible when connected via USB-C to compatible Apple devices, bypassing Bluetooth's quality limitations for the first time. This allows the excellent 40mm drivers to receive full-quality audio streams, revealing detail that compressed Bluetooth audio obscures. The H1 chip, unchanged from the original, continues to provide seamless Apple ecosystem integration - instant pairing, automatic device switching, and low-latency performance. Spatial Audio with head tracking remains a standout feature, creating a theater-like surround experience for supported content. ANC performance is excellent, though it hasn't been updated and now faces stiffer competition from Sony and Bose. The Digital Crown provides precise volume control and playback management, while the dedicated button toggles between ANC and Transparency modes.

Our testing confirmed the 2024 AirPods Max as excellent performers whose improvements focus on connectivity rather than audio evolution. Sound quality is refined and balanced, with a neutral signature that suits a wide range of content from music to movies to podcasts. The 40mm drivers deliver punchy bass, clear mids, and extended highs without harshness. Spatial Audio continues to impress, with head tracking that creates a genuinely immersive experience for Dolby Atmos content. Testing lossless audio via USB-C revealed improvements in detail and dynamics compared to Bluetooth, though the difference requires quality source material and attentive listening to appreciate. ANC testing showed performance that remains competitive but no longer leads the category - both Sony and Bose now match or exceed the Max in noise isolation. Battery life reached 20 hours in our testing, unchanged from the original. Comfort was excellent for extended sessions, with the mesh headband distributing weight effectively despite the 384-gram mass. The Smart Case, unfortunately, remains inadequate - it doesn't protect the headband or earcups from damage.