Soundcore Space Q45 vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Choosing between Soundcore Space Q45 and Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) can be tricky. Both are excellent, but they serve different priorities. This guide highlights what matters for US shoppers.
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Soundcore Space Q45
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Comparison: Soundcore Space Q45 vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Soundcore Space Q45
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
| Criterion | Soundcore Space Q45 | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.3(12,760)Amazon | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired) | Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C) |
ANC | Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling (3-stage system) | Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | Yes (Talk-through, Custom, and Ambient modes via app) | Yes (Transparency mode) |
Drivers | 40mm double-layer diaphragm drivers (Metal-Ceramic) | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 40 kHz | Not officially specified |
Microphones | 2 mics with AI algorithm (calls) / Hybrid ANC array | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) |
Battery Life | 50 hours (ANC On) / 65 hours (ANC Off) | 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; 5 min charge = 4 hours playback; Full charge ~2 hours | USB-C |
Multipoint | Yes (Connect 2 devices simultaneously) | Automatic Switching (Apple ecosystem only) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Not supported) | Ultra-low latency via USB-C (wired) |
Wired Mode | Yes (3.5mm AUX cable included) | Yes (Lossless digital audio via USB-C cable) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None |
Weight | 10.3 oz (292 g) | 0.85 lb (385 g) |
Controls | Physical buttons + Soundcore app | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button |
App Eq | Soundcore App (HearID Sound 2.0 + Custom EQ) | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) |
Extras | Travel case included; Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified; NFC pairing | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) |
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Soundcore Space Q45
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional battery life (50H ANC / 65H Standard)
- • Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification with LDAC support
- • Effective Adaptive ANC for the price point
- • Multipoint connection support
- • Fast charging (5 mins for 4 hours)
✗ Cons:
- • No IP water-resistance rating
- • Lacks on-ear detection (auto-pause/play)
- • Cannot use microphone in wired mode (AUX only)
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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
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Which one is better?
Looking at user satisfaction (Apple AirPods Max (USB-C): 4.3★ vs Soundcore Space Q45: 4.6★), Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) pulls ahead. The gap is small—choose based on the priorities below.
Who should buy each?
Soundcore Space Q45 excels at: Exceptional battery life (50H ANC / 65H Standard), Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification with LDAC support
Watch for: No IP water-resistance rating
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) excels at: Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem, Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes
Watch for: Heavier than most competitors (385g)
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Soundcore Space Q45 excels if you value exceptional battery life (50h anc / 65h standard). 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.
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