When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Heres how it works.
Others may feel differently, but I actually really like theAirPods Max.
Admittedly, however, theAirPods Max with USB-Carent really enough of an upgrade to justify a full review.
Tammy, I hear you cry, tell us about the Hi-res update!
Yes, yes, I hear you and I live to serve.
Its not a game-changer, unfortunately.
But for those thatdocare, its made a difference in sound quality.
Theres slightly more detail, a little more space to tracks, and some more dynamic range.
Is it a reason to upgrade over the Lightning version, now that its finally here?
Not really, no.
Beyond the new hi-res update, the sound remains excellent in the AirPods Max.
The weird suede-linedthingdoes little more than cover the earcups, and that remains a shame.
But some issues have revealed themselves since their initial release by time, and extended use.
So that Hi-res update, while itworks,it doesnt quite hit as hard as it could.
And what never worked from the beginning
Theres more bad news for the AirPods Max, unfortunately.
But I know, from experience, that it doesnt last all that long.
That wonderful headband has weakened to the point of uselessness, sadly.
The earcups have become grubby in record time, and the white covering of the headband has given way.
As much as I love the design, it was clearly not made to stand the test of time.
Speaking of time: Keep in mind that the AirPods Max with USB-C only offer 20 hours of battery.
There are flights that last longer than the AirPods Max.
Are the AirPods Max with USB-C worth upgrading to?
Theyre still AirPods Max, and theyre still a solid enough pair of headphones to wear and listen to.
Is it worth the upgrade for the hi-res mode?
Im gonna say, not if your AirPods Max are still in full working order.
