Marshall Major V vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
If you are torn between Marshall Major V and Apple AirPods Max (USB-C), this breakdown is for you. We compare specs, pros, and cons so you can decide confidently.
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Marshall Major V

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Comparison: Marshall Major V vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)

Marshall Major V

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
| Criterion | Marshall Major V | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(2,567)Amazon | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon |
Form Factor | On-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm Wired | Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio Ready) | 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LC3 | AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C) |
ANC | No (Passive noise isolation only) | Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | No (Not supported) | Yes (Transparency mode) |
Drivers | 40mm Dynamic Drivers (Custom-tuned) | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz | Not officially specified |
Microphones | Built-in microphone for calls (Wind noise reduction) | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) |
Battery Life | 100+ hours | Up to 20 h (with ANC/Spatial Audio) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (Smart Case preserves battery, does not charge) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge (15 min = 15 hrs); Wireless Charging (pad not included) | USB-C |
Multipoint | Yes (Bluetooth Multipoint supported) | Automatic Switching (Apple ecosystem only) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Standard latency; LE Audio ready for future improvements) | Ultra-low latency via USB-C (wired) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm coiled cable included) | Yes (Lossless digital audio via USB-C cable) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | None |
Weight | 6.56 oz (186 g) | 0.85 lb (385 g) |
Controls | Multi-directional Control Knob (Play/Pause, Volume, Skip) + Customizable M-Button | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button |
App Eq | Marshall Bluetooth App (5-band EQ, Battery Preservation settings) | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) |
Extras | Wireless charging support; Made from 86% recycled plastic; Foldable clip design | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) |
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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.

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.
Which one is better?
Overall, Marshall Major V delivers better satisfaction. Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is still a quality option with specific strengths worth considering.
Who should buy each?
For performance and polish: Marshall Major V (Industry-leading 100+ hours of battery life eliminates frequent charging anxiety, Wireless charging capability is a unique convenience in the on-ear category)
For value or versatility: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) (Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem, Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes)
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Marshall Major V excels if you value industry-leading 100+ hours of battery life eliminates frequent charging anxiety. Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is better if you prioritize seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem. 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
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