Marshall Major V vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
The Marshall Major V takes the crown here with its staggering 100+ hours of battery life compared to the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)'s 50 hours. If you want headphones that can last multiple days without needing a charge, the Major V is a no-brainer. In real-world usage, this means you can enjoy music for a week on a single charge, while the ATH-M50xBT2 requires more frequent plug-ins. Plus, with features like wireless charging, the Major V offers a unique convenience, making it ideal for anyone who values longevity in their listening experience.
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Marshall Major V
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
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: Marshall Major V vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Marshall Major V
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
| Criterion | Marshall Major V | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(2,567)Amazon | ★4.4(3,219)Amazon |
Form Factor | On-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm Wired | Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio Ready) | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LC3 | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
ANC | No (Passive noise isolation only) | No (Passive noise isolation only) |
Transparency | No (Not supported) | No |
Drivers | 40mm Dynamic Drivers (Custom-tuned) | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz |
Microphones | Built-in microphone for calls (Wind noise reduction) | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) |
Battery Life | 100+ hours | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge (15 min = 15 hrs); Wireless Charging (pad not included) | USB-C; ~3.5 hours full charge; 10 min rapid charge = up to 3 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Bluetooth Multipoint supported) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Standard latency; LE Audio ready for future improvements) | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm coiled cable included) | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 6.56 oz (186 g) | 10.8 oz (307 g) |
Controls | Multi-directional Control Knob (Play/Pause, Volume, Skip) + Customizable M-Button | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Marshall Bluetooth App (5-band EQ, Battery Preservation settings) | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) |
Extras | Wireless charging support; Made from 86% recycled plastic; Foldable clip design | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included |
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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
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- • High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
- • Multipoint pairing allows seamless switching between two devices
- • Preserves the acclaimed sonic signature of the wired M50x studio monitors
- • Dedicated low-latency mode improves lip-sync for gaming and video
✗ Cons:
- • Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- • No official IP water or dust resistance rating
- • Passive noise isolation is effective but not equal to active solutions
- • Clamp force may feel tight for some users during extended listening sessions
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Which one is better?
The Marshall Major V is the better buy for most people - its 100+ hours of battery life crushes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2's 50 hours. That said, grab the ATH-M50xBT2 if you prefer a lighter design at 10.8 oz and enjoy high-resolution audio - it's still a strong contender.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Marshall Major V if: you want industry-leading battery life, you love the convenience of wireless charging, or you crave a customizable experience with the M-button. (6.56 oz weight)
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you prefer a more comfortable over-ear design, you need high-resolution audio support for optimum sound quality, or you want a similar-weight pair of headphones for extended wear. (10.83 oz weight)
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
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. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is better if you prioritize exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. 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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