AirPods Max USB-C Headphones
Over-ear · ANC · 20h · AAC · BT 5.3
MSRP
Px8 S2 Headphones
Over-ear · ANC · 30h · aptX Adaptive · BT 5.2
MSRP
Our verdict
The Px8 S2 Headphones takes the performance lead with a 2% 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 Px8 S2 Headphones's $600 price tag, it costs 9% less while delivering performance that's only 2% 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 Px8 S2 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
Px8 S2 Headphones
2% faster overall
Best value for money
AirPods Max USB-C Headphones
8% better value per dollar
AirPods Max USB-C Headphones best for
Value for money
8% better value per dollar
Audio
Battery
Comfort
Connectivity
Noise Cancellation
Frequently asked questions
Is the Px8 S2 Headphones worth $50 more than the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones?
It depends on your needs. The Px8 S2 Headphones scores 86 overall vs 84 for the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones. If you need the extra performance for demanding tasks, the premium is justified. For most users gaming at 1440p or below, the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones offers better value.
Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones or Px8 S2 Headphones?
The Px8 S2 Headphones delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The Px8 S2 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 Px8 S2 Headphones is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.
Which should I buy, the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones or Px8 S2 Headphones?
Choose the AirPods Max USB-C Headphones if you want the best value for money and primarily game at 1080p or 1440p. Choose the Px8 S2 Headphones if you need maximum performance, play at 4K, or do professional workloads like video editing and 3D rendering.
Related comparisons
AirPods Max USB-C Headphones VS Px7 S3 Headphones
Score 84 VS 84
Px8 S2 Headphones VS Px7 S3 Headphones
Score 86 VS 84
AirPods Max USB-C Headphones VS WF-1000XM5 Earbuds
Score 84 VS 84
Px8 S2 Headphones VS WF-1000XM5 Earbuds
Score 86 VS 84
AirPods Max USB-C Headphones VS Galaxy Buds3 Pro Earbuds
Score 84 VS 84
Px8 S2 Headphones VS Galaxy Buds3 Pro Earbuds
Score 86 VS 84
AirPods Max USB-C Headphones VS Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds
Score 84 VS 84
Px8 S2 Headphones VS Pixel Buds Pro 2 Earbuds
Score 86 VS 84