AirPods Max USB-C Headphones
Over-ear · ANC · 20h · AAC · BT 5.3
MSRP
QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones
Over-ear · ANC · 24h · aptX Adaptive · BT 5.3
MSRP
Our verdict
The QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones takes the performance lead with a 10% higher overall score, driven by its more shader cores, more of memory, and higher TFLOPS of compute power. In gaming benchmarks at 1440p, it delivers roughly 0% more frames per second across demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Alan Wake 2.
However, the QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones tells a compelling value story. At $430 versus the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones's $550 price tag, it costs 28% less while delivering performance that's only 10% behind. Its of memory is still more than enough for 1440p and even 4K gaming in most titles.
Our recommendation: for the majority of gamers targeting 1440p or even 4K with upscaling enabled, the QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones is the smarter purchase. The AirPods Max USB-C Headphones only makes sense if you need the absolute maximum performance for native 4K ray tracing, professional 3D rendering, or AI workloads where the extra VRAM and compute power provide a tangible advantage.
Performance winner
QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones
10% faster overall
Best value for money
QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones
38% better value per dollar
AirPods Max USB-C Headphones best for
Value for money
38% better value per dollar
Audio
Battery
Comfort
Connectivity
Noise Cancellation
Frequently asked questions
Is the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones worth $120 more than the QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones?
It depends on your needs. The AirPods Max USB-C Headphones scores 92 overall vs 84 for the QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones. If you need the extra performance for demanding tasks, the premium is justified. For most users gaming at 1440p or below, the QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones offers better value.
Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones or QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones?
The QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones provides more headroom for ray tracing and future titles, while the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones still maintains smooth gameplay in current games.
Can the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones handle 4K gaming?
The AirPods Max USB-C Headphones can handle 4K gaming in less demanding titles and with upscaling technologies like DLSS or FSR. For native 4K at ultra settings in demanding games, the QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.
Which should I buy, the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones or QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones?
Choose the QC Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones if you want the best value for money and primarily game at 1080p or 1440p. Choose the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones if you need maximum performance, play at 4K, or do professional workloads like video editing and 3D rendering.
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