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Beyerdynamic DT 990 Edition vs Apple AirPods Max

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

HIGHER SCORE
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Edition
8.2
/ 10
Over-earHigh end
Apple AirPods Max
8.1
/ 10
Over-earHigh end

Specs comparison

8.2/10
SCORE
8.1/10
250Ω
IMPEDANCE
43Ω
96dB
SENSITIVITY
99dB
Yes
NEEDS AMP
No

Analysis

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Edition scores 8.2/10 with 250Ω impedance and 96dB sensitivity. At 250Ω, it benefits significantly from a dedicated amplifier.

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 Beyerdynamic DT 990 Edition 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 →990 Edition details →AirPods Max details →

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