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Audio-Technica ATH-IM04 vs Apple AirPods Max

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

HIGHER SCORE
Audio-Technica ATH-IM04
8.2
/ 10
IEMHigh end
Apple AirPods Max
8.1
/ 10
Over-earHigh end

Specs comparison

8.2/10
SCORE
8.1/10
16Ω
IMPEDANCE
43Ω
103dB
SENSITIVITY
99dB
No
NEEDS AMP
No

Analysis

The Audio-Technica ATH-IM04 scores 8.2/10 with 16Ω impedance and 103dB sensitivity. At 16Ω, 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 Audio-Technica ATH-IM04 scores higher overall. However, the right choice depends on your full audio chain — use our analyzer to see which fits your actual setup.

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

Analyze my setup →Audio-Technica ATH-IM04 details →AirPods Max details →

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