AirPods Max 2

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Design, Comfort, and Case

  • Many comments focus on weight (~386 g) and clamp force; several users report headaches, scalp “dents,” and discomfort after 1–2 hours, though others find them the most comfortable headphones they own.
  • Headband mesh reportedly sags over time, causing the metal rails to press into the scalp; mesh is not user-replaceable, leading to third‑party silicone band add‑ons.
  • Ear cups don’t tilt horizontally, which makes fit and pressure distribution poor for some head shapes.
  • The “Smart Case” is widely criticized as functionally useless and ugly; it doesn’t protect the headband and forces awkward storage habits.

Sound, ANC, and Tech Features

  • Sound quality is generally considered very good for consumer use; some describe it as “reference-capable,” others say it’s below Bose/Sony/Sennheiser and bass‑emphasized.
  • ANC is viewed as top-tier by many, but some say recent AirPods Pro now outperform Max for noise cancelling.
  • Max 2 adds improved ANC and wired lossless over USB‑C, but still no wireless lossless; codec support and Bluetooth LE Audio remain unclear.
  • Bass‑heavy tuning and limited systemwide EQ on Apple devices frustrate users seeking flatter response; Android users mention global EQ apps.

Battery, Power Management, and Connectivity

  • Lack of a physical power button is a recurring complaint. Behavior around low‑power and “ultra‑low‑power” modes is inconsistent: some see minimal drain, others report dead batteries after a day or two.
  • Automatic device switching and tight integration with Apple gear are repeatedly cited as the main “killer features,” far better than many third‑party Bluetooth headphones.
  • Wired lossless over USB‑C reportedly disables the mic, which some see as a major convenience regression.

Reliability and Durability

  • Multiple reports of units “bricking” shortly after warranty, condensation issues, screeching feedback, random reboots, broken headbands, and rattling mics or drivers.
  • Some users resort to hacks (freezer trick, suction on mic mesh) to temporarily fix failures.
  • Repairs out of warranty are described as very expensive, often close to replacement cost.

Price, Competition, and Value

  • $549 is seen by many as excessive, especially now that an entry-level MacBook is close in price.
  • Others note this is broadly in line with the “premium ANC” market (Sony XM series, Bose QC Ultra, B&W, Focal), and argue you pay for integration, convenience, and fashion/status signaling.
  • A substantial contingent prefers cheaper ANC options (Anker/Soundcore, Tozo, midrange Sennheiser/Sony/Bose) as better “bang for buck,” and some plan to buy Gen 1 used instead of upgrading.