Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Apple AirPods 4

Buy the AirPods Max 2 if you want over-ear sound, the strongest noise cancellation Apple sells, and a set that lives in your Apple ecosystem. Buy the AirPods 4 if you want something light and pocketable for commuting, workouts and calls. The Max 2 wins on audio, ANC and build; the AirPods 4 win on portability, sweat and water resistance and all-day comfort. Owners of both praise the H2 chip and seamless switching; the Max 2 draws complaints about its unchanged design and weight, the AirPods 4 about weaker isolation than over-ears.

• Choose the AirPods Max 2 if you listen at a desk, on flights or in front of an Apple TV and want the best sound and noise cancellation Apple makes.
• Choose the AirPods 4 if you want earbuds that disappear in a pocket, survive sweat and rain, and stay comfortable for hours.