How Much Should You Really Spend on a Pair of High-End Headphones?

Heavier materials add weight and, if not distributed properly on the headband and earcups, can actually make the headphones less comfortable.

These more premium materials can make headphones more comfortable, but it’s not always the case — heavier materials add more weight and, if not distributed on the headband and earcups properly, can lead to discomfort.

And, of course, these luxury headphones are also a bit of a status symbol. In the same way a really fast car or a really expensive watch is designed to look cool and be shown off, so too are luxury headphones.

Are they practical? Probably not for most people. But are they cool? Well, that’s up to you.

Apple’s original trend setter

Apple

Apple AirPods Max

Pros

Superb sound quality and support for spatial audio
Excellent noise-cancellation
Premium materials. No plastic
More affordable now they’re several years old

Cons

Only works best with Apple devices
Quite heavy and not the most comfortable
Lacks some premium features of the newer AirPods Pro
Several years old and due for an update

Release date: December 2020

The AirPods Max paved the way for more expensive noise-canceling headphones. Aside from the hefty price tag and premium materials — made mostly of stainless steel frame and a breathable knit mesh — the AirPods Max hold the distinction of working better with iPhones than any other noise-canceling headphone.

They are integrated with Apple’s special H1 chip, which helps them quickly pair with an iPhone, and support spatial audio and Dolby Atmos. However, they don’t have the newer H1 or H2 chipset that are in the latest AirPods Pro and lack some newer features — such as Adaptive Audio, Personalized Volume and Conversation Awareness. They also still charge via Lightning.