AirPods Max USB-C Headphones
Over-ear · ANC · 20h · AAC · BT 5.3
MSRP
Pi8 Earbuds
In-ear TWS · ANC · 6.5h/22h · aptX Adaptive · BT 5.3
MSRP
Our verdict
The AirPods Max USB-C Headphones takes the performance lead with a 5% 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 AirPods Max USB-C Headphones tells a compelling value story. At $550 versus the Pi8 Earbuds's $400 price tag, it costs $150 less while delivering performance that's only 5% 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 AirPods Max USB-C Headphones is the smarter purchase. The Pi8 Earbuds 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
AirPods Max USB-C Headphones
5% faster overall
Best value for money
AirPods Max USB-C Headphones
0% better value per dollar
AirPods Max USB-C Headphones best for
Raw performance
5% faster overall
Audio
Battery
Comfort
Connectivity
Noise Cancellation
Frequently asked questions
Is the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones worth $150 more than the Pi8 Earbuds?
It depends on your needs. The AirPods Max USB-C Headphones scores 84 overall vs 80 for the Pi8 Earbuds. If you need the extra performance for demanding tasks, the premium is justified. For most users gaming at 1440p or below, the Pi8 Earbuds offers better value.
Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones or Pi8 Earbuds?
The AirPods Max USB-C Headphones delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The AirPods Max USB-C Headphones provides more headroom for ray tracing and future titles, while the Pi8 Earbuds still maintains smooth gameplay in current games.
Can the Pi8 Earbuds handle 4K gaming?
The Pi8 Earbuds 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 AirPods Max USB-C Headphones is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.
Which should I buy, the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones or Pi8 Earbuds?
Choose the Pi8 Earbuds 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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