Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
In the showdown between Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) and Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e, the winner is clear: the AirPods Max takes the crown for its superior Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and deep integration within the Apple ecosystem. With a pro-level ANC, you'll experience immersive sound like no other, making it a no-brainer for Apple users. .
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Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
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 Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
| Criterion | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) | Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon | ★4.4(1,676)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio) | Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C Digital Audio + 3.5mm Analog (via included USB-C cable) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
Codecs | AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C) | aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ HD, aptX™, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation) | Yes (Hybrid Noise Cancellation with 4 sensing mics) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency mode) | Yes (Ambient Pass-Through) |
Drivers | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver | 2 x 40mm Dynamic Full Range Bio-Cellulose Drivers |
Frequency Response | Not officially specified | 10 Hz – 30,000 Hz |
Microphones | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) | 6 Microphones total (4 for ANC + 2 for clear telephony) |
Battery Life | Up to 20 h (with ANC/Spatial Audio) | Up to 30 hours |
Battery Life | N/A (Smart Case preserves battery, does not charge) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 7 hours playback; Full charge ~2 hours |
Multipoint | Automatic Switching (Apple ecosystem only) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Ultra-low latency via USB-C (wired) | No (Relies on aptX™ Adaptive dynamic latency) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Lossless digital audio via USB-C cable) | Yes (Supports both USB-C digital audio and 3.5mm analog sources via included cables) |
Water Resistance | None | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 0.85 lb (385 g) | 10.8 oz (307 g) |
Controls | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button | Physical Buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, Power Slider, Quick Action Button) |
App Eq | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) | Bowers & Wilkins Music App (Basic Bass/Treble tone controls only) |
Extras | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) | Wear-Detection Sensor; 24-bit DSP Engine; Hard-shell carrying case included |
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Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
✓ Pros:
- • Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem
- • Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes
- • Native Lossless Audio support via USB-C cable
- • Premium build quality with breathable mesh canopy
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier than most competitors (385g)
- • Smart Case offers minimal physical protection
- • Retains older H1 chip (misses Adaptive Audio/Conversation Awareness)
- • Expensive MSRP ($549) unchanged
- • No official water resistance rating
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
✓ Pros:
- • Luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing
- • Sophisticated 24-bit DSP tuning offers a significant sonic upgrade over the standard S2
- • Support for high-quality codecs (aptX™ Adaptive/HD) ensures fidelity on Android
- • USB-C port functions as a direct digital audio interface for computers
- • Physical buttons provide reliable control without accidental touches
✗ Cons:
- • App EQ is restricted to simple Bass and Treble sliders (no multi-band equalization)
- • Active Noise Cancellation is effective but trails behind top-tier Sony and Bose models
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) warns against use in rain or heavy workouts
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Which one is better?
The Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is the better buy for most people - its pro-level Active Noise Cancellation crushes the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) if: you want top-notch noise cancellation, plan to use them primarily with Apple devices, or value high-fidelity sound. (13.58 oz weight)
Choose the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e if: you need a lightweight design, want longer battery life for travel, or prefer physical buttons for control. (10.83 oz weight)
Conclusion
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) and Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) excels if you value seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e is better if you prioritize luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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