After years of speculation, Apple launched its much-anticipated premium wireless over-ear headphones in the AirPods Max last December. That’s right: Max, not Studio.
The headphones feature the H1 chip, which is what allowed the 2nd gen AirPods faster connectivity and reduced latency. In the AirPods Max, the H1 chip allows “computational audio to deliver the highest quality listening experience possible”.
If you’re not entirely sure what “computational audio” means, Apple defines it as a combination of audio features: Adaptive EQ, Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, and finally, Spatial Audio. Spatial Audio optimises the sound based on the position of the listener’s head and the headphones for a fully immersive experience. But are the AirPods Max worth it? Find out in our full review.
For all AirPods Max-related news and updates, here’s everything there is to know.
Where to buy the AirPods Max in the UK – £50 off
Right now, the AirPods Max are available to buy directly from Apple. If you’re looking elsewhere, stock is limited.
Currently, the best price around is from Laptops Direct which has slashed £49.03 off the premium headset, dropping the price to £499.97. The price beats every major retailer including Amazon where it’s full price. See our full coverage.
In the US, you can pick up a refurbished pair of AirPods Max for $479.95 – a $69.05 saving!
Below are all retailers that are selling the AirPods Max. We’ve noted any discounts, as well as retailers with limited stock, so check back often to see if it changes:
- Amazon – in stock
- Argos – in stock
- BT Shop – Stock varies by colour
- Currys PC World – in stock, includes up to 5 months of Apple Music, Apple Arcade and Apple News+ free (for new and returning customers)
- Jigsaw24 – in stock for £546 (£3 off)
- John Lewis – in stock with free 2-year guarantee
- KRCS – out of stock
- Laptops Direct – £50 off
- OnBuy – this is a marketplace site like eBay so check seller reviews before purchasing, lowest price is £406
- Wex – In stock, free delivery available
Where to buy AirPods Max in the US
- Amazon (US) – $549
- Best Buy (US) – includes 6 months of Apple Music
- Target (US) – $549
- Walmart (US) – $519
You can compare prices from retailers in your region below:
How much do the AirPods Max cost?
The AirPods Max cost £549/US$549/A$899 (it’s ok, you’re allowed to wince), making it the most expensive audio gear in the AirPods range.
The AirPod Max’s price includes a case in a matching colour, as well as a Lightning to USB-C cable for charging.
The entry-level AirPods start at £159/US159/A$249 while the AirPods Pro cost £249/US$249/A$399. You can get them at a better price from other retailers, however – see the best Apple AirPods deals here.
If you’re looking for other Apple deals, see our round-up of the best Apple offers.
When did the AirPods Max go on sale?
The AirPods Max went on sale 15 December 2020 and are available to buy directly from Apple and retailers listed above.
The headphones are available in five colours: space grey, silver, sky blue, green, and pink.
Check out the best iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 mini deals. We’re also looking at where to buy the purple iPhone 12 and 12 mini here.
Author: Somrata Sarkar, Senior Staff Writer
Somrata researches and writes about the best tech deals to help readers make smart, informed buying decisions. She's an expert on accessories and also reviews laptops, phones, audio and other devices.