Decoding the Specs, Price, and Performance of AirPods Max: A Comprehensive Comparison

Beats has recently launched the highly awaited Beats 360, marking the company’s first release of new over-ear headphones since the Beats Studio Pro in 2023. These new headphones serve as a higher-end alternative rather than a direct replacement for the previous model. This latest offering from Apple’s Beats division adds another dimension to the comparison with the AirPods Max.

Three years ago, the Beats Studio Pro already provided much of the same features as the original AirPods Max, but at a more affordable price of $349 – $200 less than Apple’s premium headphones. At that time, the AirPods Max had not been updated since their initial release in December 2020.

The Beats 360 showcases a unique design compared to the Studio Pro, with some compromises such as the absence of wired audio connectivity. Priced at $350, the Beats 360 now occupy the same price point previously held by the Studio Pro. Consequently, the older headphones have been discounted to $300, remaining available as an alternative for those who prefer their style. Meanwhile, the second-generation AirPods Max continue to sell at a higher premium of $549.

Key Features of Beats 360

For $350, what do the Beats 360 offer? The design of the Beats 360 takes inspiration from the AirPods Max, featuring a rounded headband with attachable head cushion and removable ear cushions, allowing users to customize their style.

Oliver Schusser, Apple’s vice president of Music, Sports, and Beats, stated, “Beats has played a significant role in the evolution of over-ear headphones. Beats 360 represents the next chapter in that journey, combining advanced acoustic performance with a versatile design that seamlessly adapts to your lifestyle. With the option of interchangeable cushions, our customers can express their individuality in a way that sets these headphones apart.”

While it is common to see people wearing AirPods Max during workouts, the Beats 360 are geared towards fitness enthusiasts. They are rated IPX4, making them resistant to water splashes and sweat – a feature lacking in the AirPods Max, which do not have an IP rating.

At 10.4 ounces, the Beats 360 are lighter than the AirPods Max, attributed to their plastic construction instead of aluminum. Unlike the Beats Studio Pro, the Beats 360 do not include an Apple H-series chip, opting for Beats’ custom silicon for compatibility across different platforms.

The custom chip, now in its fourth generation, handles audio processing, drives a dual-magnet dynamic driver and a high dynamic range amplifier, and includes Active Noise Cancellation. Additionally, the Beats 360 offer Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity as their sole option, with no support for wired audio.

Furthermore, similar to the AirPods Max, the Beats 360 do not fold for travel but allow the ear cups to be twisted flat. They boast an impressive 32-hour battery life with ANC and Personalized Spatial Audio enabled, surpassing the battery life of the Studio Pro and AirPods Max.

The Beats 360 are available in black, cloud, pink, or sky colors and can be purchased from Beats or the Apple Store, with the option to add AppleCare+ for additional protection.