Apple AirPods Pro (1st Generation) vs Apple AirPods Max

Side-by-side comparison — scores, specs and which one fits your setup.

HIGHER SCORE

8.2

/ 10

True WirelessHigh end

Apple AirPods Max

8.1

/ 10

Over-earHigh end

Specs comparison

8.2/10◀

SCORE

8.1/10

4Ω◀

IMPEDANCE

43Ω

94dB

SENSITIVITY

▶99dB

No

NEEDS AMP

No

Analysis

The Apple AirPods Pro (1st Generation) scores 8.2/10 with 4Ω impedance and 94dB sensitivity. At 4Ω, it drives well from most phones without an external amp.

The Apple AirPods Max scores 8.1/10 with 43Ω impedance and 99dB sensitivity. At 43Ω, it can be driven directly without extra hardware.

Based on our scoring, the Apple AirPods Pro (1st Generation) scores higher overall. However, the right choice depends on your full audio chain — use our analyzer to see which fits your actual setup.

Own one of these headphones?

A high headphone score doesn't mean your audio sounds great. Your DAC, amp or source might be the real bottleneck.

Analyze my setup →(1st Generation) details →AirPods Max details →

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