Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Focal Hadenys

These are different tools. The AirPods Max 2 is a wireless, noise-canceling headphone built for iPhone and Mac owners who want spatial audio, Transparency mode and Siri in one package. The Focal Hadenys is a wired open-back headphone for critical listening at a desk or in a quiet room, with a 40 mm aluminum-magnesium dome driver and a 3-year warranty. Reviewers rate the Hadenys higher on sound quality per rating, but it has no battery, no ANC and leaks sound both ways. Buy the AirPods Max 2 for travel, calls and Apple devices; buy the Hadenys for serious wired listening.

• Choose the AirPods Max 2 if you want wireless noise canceling, spatial audio and tight iPhone, iPad and Mac integration.
• Choose the Focal Hadenys if you listen wired in a quiet room and care most about open-back sound quality and a long warranty.