Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is the flagship option here, but the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones brings some serious competition. This means less charging and more time enjoying your tunes. What matters most here is how you'll use them. The Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) shines in the Apple ecosystem with smooth integration and top-notch Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), while the Px8 offers exquisite build quality and sound clarity. If you're a music lover who appreciates design and sound, the Px8 is a no-brainer for long listening sessions. Key specs: Weight: 13.58 oz vs 11.29 oz and Battery: 20h vs 30h.
Why compare these? Both the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) and Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are premium flagship headphones competing in the same market segment. This makes them direct rivals for buyers looking for premium flagship features and performance in 2026. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right one for your specific needs.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Apple AirPods | Bowers & |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.6★ (3,079 reviews) | 4.6★ (256 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem | Exquisite build quality with die-cast aluminum and Nappa leather |
| Main Drawback | Heavier than most competitors (385g) | Microphone does not function in wired mode (audio only) |
| Market Position | Flagship | Flagship |
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)
Over-ear (Closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.2; USB-C Audio (Hi-Res 24-bit); 3.5 mm Analog (via included USB-C cable)
5.2
aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, 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 Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
| Criterion | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) | Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon | ★4.6(256)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 Audio (Hi-Res 24-bit); 3.5 mm Analog (via included USB-C cable) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 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 mics) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency mode) | Yes (Ambient Pass-Through) |
Drivers | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver | 2 × 40 mm Carbon Cone dynamic drivers |
Frequency Response | Not officially specified | N/A (Manufacturer does not publish) |
Microphones | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) | 6 total (4 for ANC, 2 for telephony with CVC technology) |
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 (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C | USB-C (Fast Charge: 15 min = 7 hours playback) |
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 (USB-C and 3.5 mm supported; Audio playback only – microphone does not work in wired mode) |
Water Resistance | None | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 0.85 lb (385 g) | 320 g (11.3 oz) |
Controls | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button | Physical buttons (Play/Pause, Vol +/-, ANC toggle, Power/Slider) |
App Eq | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) | Bowers & Wilkins Music App (Bass/Treble tone controls only; no graphic EQ) |
Extras | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) | Wear-Detection Sensor; Nappa Leather & Cast Aluminum arms; Included hard shell carrying case |
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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
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Over-ear (Closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.2; USB-C Audio (Hi-Res 24-bit); 3.5 mm Analog (via included USB-C cable)
5.2
aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC
Yes (Hybrid Noise Cancellation with 4 mics)
Yes (Ambient Pass-Through)
Pros
- Exquisite build quality with die-cast aluminum and Nappa leather
- Class-leading sound clarity via Carbon Cone drivers and 24-bit DSP
Cons
- Microphone does not function in wired mode (audio only)
- Expensive compared to competitors with similar feature sets
Which one is better?
Grab the AirPods Max if you need excellent 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 value advanced ANC features, or you prefer a premium build quality. (13.58 oz weight)
Choose the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones if: you need longer battery life, you appreciate luxurious materials like Nappa leather, or you seek excellent sound clarity for your music. (11.29 oz weight)
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 3,079 reviews vs 256
→ Choose Apple AirPods
Seamless switching and Priority
Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem
→ Choose Apple AirPods
Exquisite build quality Priority
Exquisite build quality with die-cast aluminum and Nappa leather
→ Choose Bowers &
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Bottom line: Both products share a 4.6★ rating, making this comparison particularly close. Your decision should come down to which specific features matter most to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) or Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones?
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is the better choice if you prioritize seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem. Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones wins if you value exquisite build quality with die-cast aluminum and nappa leather. Both are rated highly (4.6★ vs 4.6★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) and Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones?
Key differences: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) offers seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem, while Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones stands out with exquisite build quality with die-cast aluminum and nappa leather. Consider that Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) heavier than most competitors (385g). Meanwhile, Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones microphone does not function in wired mode (audio 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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