Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is the flagship option here, but the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones holds its ground with impressive specs. Key specs: Weight: 13.58 oz vs 10.05 oz and Battery: 20h vs 35h.
Why compare these? The Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) (premium flagship) and Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones (high-end) represent different approaches to headphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Apple AirPods | Bang & |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.6★ (3,079 reviews) | 4.2★ (1,325 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem | Luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather |
| Main Drawback | Heavier than most competitors (385g) | No digital audio support via USB-C (charging only) |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Premium |
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio)
5.0
AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C)
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Over-ear (Circumaural)
Bluetooth 5.1 (Multipoint); 3.5 mm Analog Input
5.1
aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
| Criterion | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) | Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon | ★4.2(1,325)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (Circumaural) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio) | Bluetooth 5.1 (Multipoint); 3.5 mm Analog Input |
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.1 |
Codecs | AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C) | aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation) | Yes (Digital Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency mode) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver | 40 mm Electro-dynamic drivers with Neodymium magnets |
Frequency Response | Not officially specified | 20 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) | 4 x Digital MEMS voice mics (2 shared with ANC) + 4 x Dedicated MEMS ANC mics |
Battery Life | Up to 20 h (with ANC/Spatial Audio) | Up to 35 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / Up to 40 hours (Bluetooth only) |
Battery Life | N/A (Smart Case preserves battery, does not charge) | N/A (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C | USB-C (Approx. 3 hours for full charge) |
Multipoint | Automatic Switching (Apple ecosystem only) | Yes (Connect two devices simultaneously) |
Low Latency Mode | Ultra-low latency via USB-C (wired) | Yes (via aptX Adaptive automatically) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Lossless digital audio via USB-C cable) | Yes (3.5 mm mini-jack; Passive playback supported; Mic does not work in wired mode; USB-C is charging only) |
Water Resistance | None | No (No official IP rating) |
Weight | 0.85 lb (385 g) | 285 g (10.1 oz) |
Controls | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button | Touch interface (Right earcup: Play/Pause, Volume, Skip) + Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, ANC toggle, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) | Bang & Olufsen App (Beosonic™ intuitive tone-touch EQ; not a standard band EQ) |
Extras | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) | Google Fast Pair; Microsoft Swift Pair; Made for iPhone (MFi); Replaceable battery (serviceable); Lambskin leather ear cushions; Fabric carrying case included |
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Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio)
5.0
AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C)
Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation)
Yes (Transparency mode)
Pros
- Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem
- Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes
Cons
- Heavier than most competitors (385g)
- Smart Case offers minimal physical protection
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Over-ear (Circumaural)
Bluetooth 5.1 (Multipoint); 3.5 mm Analog Input
5.1
aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC
Yes (Digital Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation)
Yes (Transparency Mode)
Pros
- Luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather
- Excellent battery life (35 hours with ANC) for a lightweight headset
Cons
- No digital audio support via USB-C (charging only)
- Charging is slow (approx. 3 hours) compared to competitors
Which one is better?
Battery life: Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones is rated for up to 35 hours. That said, grab the AirPods Max if you want smooth integration with Apple devices and top-tier ANC performance.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) if: you want seamless switching within the Apple ecosystem, you prioritize class-leading ANC, or you prefer a wired lossless audio option. (13.58 oz weight)
Choose the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones if: you need longer battery life for extensive use, you value a lighter design for comfort, or you appreciate premium materials like lambskin leather. (10.05 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.6★ vs 4.2★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Apple AirPods
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 3,079 reviews vs 1,325
→ Choose Apple AirPods
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Apple AirPods
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Bang &
Conclusion
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) and Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Bottom line: The Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) edges ahead with a 4.6★ rating compared to 4.2★. However, Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) or Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones?
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is the better choice if you prioritize seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones wins if you value luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather. Both are rated highly (4.6★ vs 4.2★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) and Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones?
Key differences: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) offers seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem, while Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones stands out with luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather. Consider that Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) heavier than most competitors (385g). Meanwhile, Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones no digital audio support via usb-c (charging only). Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: February 7, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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