Comparing Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Beats Studio Pro versus Apple AirPods Max - Determining Which One Reigns Supreme
In the world of premium wireless over-ear headphones, two titans stand out: the Apple AirPods Max and the Beats Studio Pro. Both offer impressive features, but they cater to different preferences and needs.
Apple AirPods Max: Audiophile's Delight
The Apple AirPods Max, priced around £500 / $500, sets a new bar in over-ear headphone design. With a single-piece anodised aluminium ear cups, a stainless-steel headband, and memory foam ear cushions, it exudes a premium feel. Powered by an Apple chip (H1) that analyses information from eight microphones for active noise cancellation and real-time sound tailoring, the AirPods Max delivers superb audio and noise-cancelling, making it a favourite among audiophiles.
The AirPods Max boasts a 40mm driver featuring a dual neodymium ring magnet motor, allowing for low total harmonic distortion. This results in a richer and more refined sound quality, favoured by audiophiles, even if less highlighted in casual listening. With a battery life of 20 hours, the AirPods Max offers 20 hours of listening pleasure on a single charge.
Beats Studio Pro: Versatile and Affordable
The Beats Studio Pro, on the other hand, is more affordable, starting at £180 / $250. It offers a clean and chic design, providing a great balance between style and functionality. Although it lacks the premium feel of the AirPods Max, it more than makes up for it with its versatility.
The Beats Studio Pro's sound quality is less impressive when compared to the AirPods Max, but it is well-tuned and balanced, making it great for daily use. It provides a satisfying bass without overpowering mids and vocals, making it a good choice for casual listening and even professional audio recording applications.
One area where the Beats Studio Pro outshines the AirPods Max is in its fast-charging feature. It provides 4 hours of use from a 10-minute charge, compared to the AirPods Max's 90 minutes from a 5-minute charge. The Beats Studio Pro also offers a battery life of 24 hours, providing an additional 4 hours of listening time compared to the AirPods Max.
A Matter of Compatibility
When it comes to compatibility, the AirPods Max is practically Apple-only, while the Beats Studio Pro works better with Android devices. The AirPods Max lacks an audio cable and a near-pointless case, while the Beats Studio Pro includes an audio cable in the box, allowing for lossless playback and selection from a list of sound profiles when listening wired.
In conclusion, if the priority is the absolute best sound quality, the Apple AirPods Max is superior. However, if you want a great-sounding, comfortable, stylish headphone with very good active noise cancellation and success in casual and professional scenarios, the Beats Studio Pro is an excellent alternative, albeit slightly behind the AirPods Max sonically. The Beats Studio Pro's affordability, fast-charging feature, and compatibility with Android devices make it a compelling choice for many.
- If you're an audiophile seeking the ultimate listening experience, the Apple AirPods Max, with its superior audio quality, active noise cancellation, and premium design, could be your ideal choice, priced at around £500 / $500.
- The Beats Studio Pro, starting at £180 / $250, offers a balance between style, functionality, and affordability, making it a versatile option for casual listening, professional audio recording, and everyday use.
- For those who value fast charging, the Beats Studio Pro provides 4 hours of use from a 10-minute charge, surpassing the AirPods Max's 90 minutes from a 5-minute charge.
- If you're an Android user, the Beats Studio Pro may be more compatible with your device since it includes an audio cable in the box.
- When making your purchase decision, consider not just the audio quality, but also factors like battery life, fast charging, compatibility, and personal preference for design and pricing.
