Apple
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
$549
Released 2024-09
Best Over Ear Headphones · head-to-head
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Beats Studio Pro
A sourced, side-by-side comparison. Beats Studio Pro is cheaper at $350. Every spec and price links to its source.
Beats
Beats Studio Pro
$350Cheaper
Released 2023-07
Which is better: the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) or Beats Studio Pro?
The Beats Studio Pro wins 1 of the 1 specs we compare head to head; the other wins 0. The Beats Studio Pro is the cheaper at $350. The Beats Studio Pro both leads on specs and costs less — the straightforward pick.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices verified at capture; live price may differ.
Full spec sheet
✓ marks the stronger figure where "more" — or "less", for price and weight — is unambiguously better.
| Spec | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) | Beats Studio Pro |
|---|---|---|
| US price | $549 | $350 |
| Brand | Apple | Beats |
| Released | 2024-09 | 2023-07 |
| ANC | Yes | Yes |
| Driver (mm) | 40 | 40 |
| Battery hr | 20 | 24 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | — |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC |
| Wired option | Yes | Yes |
| Weight (g) | 386 | 260 |
| Release | 2024-09 | 2023-07 |
Sources — Apple AirPods Max (USB-C): apple.com (verified 2026-06-15). Beats Studio Pro: beatsbydre.com (verified 2026-06-15).
What's the difference between the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) and Beats Studio Pro?
Where the two actually differ on the specs we track (2 of 7). Matching specs are omitted.
- Battery hr: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) 20 vs Beats Studio Pro 24
- Weight (g): Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) 386 vs Beats Studio Pro 260
What reviewers say
Sourced tester consensus for each — the "what people who used it think" layer, not just specs.
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
SoundGuys' measured review of the USB-C AirPods Max verifies fantastic active noise canceling and very solid wireless sound quality, with tested battery life reaching roughly 21 hours (ANC on or off). Their verdict: a great-sounding, well-built pair that is nonetheless overpriced. The USB-C model measures slightly more high-end than the Lightning version. (1 sourced review, 1 lab-tested.)
Praised: Active noise canceling is fantastic; Sound quality is very solid for wireless headphones; Tested battery life ~21 hours, beating Apple's claim.
Flagged: Overpriced for what it offers.
Beats Studio Pro
No sourced tester review yet.