Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Apple AirPods Max (Lightning)

Buy the AirPods Max 2 if you own an iPhone, iPad or Mac and want the strongest noise cancellation Apple ships, USB-C lossless audio and the newer H2 chip. The original AirPods Max (Lightning) still sounds excellent and is the same shape and weight, but it runs the older H1 chip, Bluetooth 5.0 and a Lightning port. Reviewers rate the Max 2 as the best over-ear pick for Apple users; owners of the original note the outside design barely changed, so the upgrade is mostly inside.

• Choose the AirPods Max 2 if you want the best noise cancellation Apple offers, USB-C charging and lossless audio, and you stay inside the Apple ecosystem.
• Choose the AirPods Max (Lightning) if you already charge Apple gear with Lightning cables and want the same over-ear fit and sound for less.