When Apple first introduced the AirPods Max, they were met with enthusiasm for their sleek design and advanced features. Now, with the release of the AirPods Max 2, many are wondering if this upgrade is essential. Here are 7 reasons why the AirPods Max 2 may be the most unneeded upgrade, even for avid Apple fans.
1. Identical Price, Minimal Upgrades
At $549, both the original AirPods Max and the AirPods Max 2 share the same price point, yet the new version doesn’t bring enough to justify the cost. Customers who already own the original Max may find it difficult to see the value in upgrading when the differences seem so minor.
2. New Colors, But Not Much Else
Apple has introduced new color options for the AirPods Max 2, but they are simply darker shades of the previous offerings. While aesthetic appeal can be a factor for some, this change hardly warrants the excitement or the investment, especially when performance upgrades are minimal.
3. Bluetooth 5.3: Nothing Revolutionary
The AirPods Max 2 features Bluetooth 5.3, which promises better wireless reliability. However, Bluetooth technology has connected devices seamlessly, so this is not a groundbreaking improvement. The connectivity enhancements may go unnoticed by most users, as the experience remains quite similar to the original AirPods Max.
4. H1 Chip, Not H2: Disappointing Performance Upgrades
Contrary to expectations, the AirPods Max 2 still features the H1 chip, the same chip found in the original model. Many had predicted that Apple would integrate the newer H2 chip, which is already in the AirPods Pro 2. The H2 chip promises better sound quality, longer battery life, and enhanced features like conversation awareness, but it’s absent here. This leaves the AirPods Max 2 behind in performance compared to other newer Apple products, making the upgrade feel underwhelming, especially when users were expecting a leap forward with the H2 chip
5. U1 Chip: Precision Finding That Isn’t So Precise
Apple has added the U1 chip for precision finding, which allows users to locate their AirPods Max 2 via the Find My app. While this feature sounds useful, it doesn’t perform perfectly. Many users report that it doesn’t offer the kind of precise tracking that’s needed when searching for the device at home, which diminishes the utility of this feature.
6. Still Heavy, No Improvement in Comfort
One of the biggest complaints about the original AirPods Max was their weight, which many users found uncomfortable for long-term use. Unfortunately, the AirPods Max 2 still weigh the same. Apple hasn’t addressed this common criticism, which might be a dealbreaker for potential buyers looking for a more comfortable experience.
7. USB-C: A Step Towards Uniformity
One notable introduction of USB-C charging, aligning the AirPods Max 2 with Apple’s latest products, including the iPhone 15. While this makes charging more convenient, especially for those with other Apple devices, it’s a small change that doesn’t greatly enhance the overall user experience. Still, it’s a welcome update for those who are moving towards a USB-C ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
While Apple has made some tweaks and introduced a few new features with the AirPods Max 2, they fail to offer a compelling reason to upgrade. With a price tag that remains high and improvements that are largely incremental, many users may find that sticking with the original AirPods Max is the smarter choice. The changes in colors, chips, and case design feel more like cosmetic or minor upgrades rather than substantial improvements that elevate the listening experience. For most, the AirPods Max 2 will likely feel like an unneeded upgrade.