Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Marshall Major V
You're looking at two very different headphones: the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Marshall Major V. The AirPods Max (USB-C) is the flagship option, boasting pro-level Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and premium build quality, ideal for immersive listening. In contrast, the Marshall Major V,. You'll appreciate the seamless switching within the Apple ecosystem with the AirPods,.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Marshall Major V
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.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Marshall Major V
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Marshall Major V
| Criterion | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) | Marshall Major V |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon | ★4.6(2,567)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | On-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio) | Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm Wired |
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio Ready) |
Codecs | AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C) | SBC, AAC, LC3 |
ANC | Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation) | No (Passive noise isolation only) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency mode) | No (Not supported) |
Drivers | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver | 40mm Dynamic Drivers (Custom-tuned) |
Frequency Response | Not officially specified | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz |
Microphones | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) | Built-in microphone for calls (Wind noise reduction) |
Battery Life | Up to 20 h (with ANC/Spatial Audio) | 100+ 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 = 15 hrs); Wireless Charging (pad not included) |
Multipoint | Automatic Switching (Apple ecosystem only) | Yes (Bluetooth Multipoint supported) |
Low Latency Mode | Ultra-low latency via USB-C (wired) | No (Standard latency; LE Audio ready for future improvements) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Lossless digital audio via USB-C cable) | Yes (3.5mm coiled cable included) |
Water Resistance | None | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 0.85 lb (385 g) | 6.56 oz (186 g) |
Controls | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button | Multi-directional Control Knob (Play/Pause, Volume, Skip) + Customizable M-Button |
App Eq | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) | Marshall Bluetooth App (5-band EQ, Battery Preservation settings) |
Extras | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) | Wireless charging support; Made from 86% recycled plastic; Foldable clip design |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
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.
Marshall Major V
✓ Pros:
- • Industry-leading 100+ hours of battery life eliminates frequent charging anxiety
- • Wireless charging capability is a unique convenience in the on-ear category
- • Customizable M-button allows instant access to Spotify Tap, EQ, or Voice Assistant
- • Future-proof support for Bluetooth LE Audio and LC3 codec
- • Classic, collapsible design is highly portable and durable
✗ Cons:
- • On-ear design presses against the ears, which can cause fatigue during long sessions
- • Lacks Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) found in similarly priced competitors
- • No official water resistance (IP) rating
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 ANC crushes the Marshall Major V.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) if: you want top-notch audio quality with 20 hours of playtime, you need seamless integration with Apple devices, or you value superior noise cancellation.
Choose the Marshall Major V if: you need 100+ hours of battery life, you prefer wireless charging convenience, or you want a lightweight design for longer listening sessions.
Conclusion
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) and Marshall Major V 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. Marshall Major V is better if you prioritize industry-leading 100+ hours of battery life eliminates frequent charging anxiety. 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.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.