15 Best AirPods Max Alternatives for Less than $400

AirPods Max alternatives became a general Google search since Apple launched its premium headset- AirPod Max.

Apple launched AirPods Max in the last month of 2020, and it does attract lots of attention.

It is one of Apple’s premium products that come with handy features, such as noise-cancellation, transparency mode, better comfortability, and a more reliable sound experience.

PCMAG.com also chose AirPods Max over AirPods Pro. Although they also said, “if you can afford them.” And, they have spoken the truth straight from the shoulder. Like the other Apple products, AirPods Max also comes with a sky-high price. And, you can only buy AirPods Max if you have $549 in your bank account. I agree, AirPods Max comes with premium quality and gives you an exceptional audio experience. But not everyone can pay that much price for a piece of headphones.

To puzzle out this confusing situation, I hit google. And, I found out, there are a couple of AirPods Max alternatives available in the market. Therefore, if you don’t want to spend half of a grand to buy a set of headphones, make sure to read this entire post.

What are the Best AirPods Max alternatives?

Well, there are lots of AirPods Max alternatives available in the market. And you can choose a particular set of headphones according to your preferences. For instance, better sound experience, premium design, solid build, or a less expensive price tag. If we only talk about budget, there are a couple of options available in the market. And, you can purchase these headphones in the price range of $100-$400.

Now if we talk about the headphones connectivity as compared to AirPods Max, you might get a little disappointed. Apple is known for its eco-system that you won’t find in other brands. For example, when you open the AirPod case, the AirPods will automatically connect to your iPhone. On the other hand, most of the AirPods Max alternatives aren’t compatible to pair with your iPhone. However, some of the AirPods Max alternatives from significant brands allow you to do that. Still, you might face some audio cluttering issues while using them. Meanwhile, there are some AirPods Max alternatives that only feature pairing through a Bluetooth connection.

In short, there is still a long way to go when it comes to better connectivity as Apple provides to its users. Still, these AirPods Max alternatives can do the job ideally at their price range. Also, most of these alternatives are from well-trusted brands, such as Sony, Bose, Sennheiser, etc. Therefore you can expect a premium audio experience from these brands.

So let’s start the list by stating the first AirPod Max alternative.

1. Sony WH-1000XM4 – Overall Best AirPods Max Alternative

When you’ll look at the comments on this product, you’ll subconsciously tend to buy these headphones. Eventually, no best headphones list can be completed without Sony WH-1000XM4.

Moreover, some users said it is the best noise-cancelling headphones you’ll ever buy. And according to some, it’s better than the AirPods Max too. Also, it comes with a less expensive price of $299 which is half of the AirPod Max price.

Sony WH-1000XM4 has a dual noise sensor technology that blocks the lower frequency noises, such as traffic, or even human whispering noises in the background. Moreover, you can pair multiple devices using these headphones. And, precise voice pickup gives you a superior call experience.

Plus, it comes with 30-hour battery life with quick charging. The seller also mentioned that it can give you 5 hours of playback at a 10 min charging. Furthermore, touch sensor controls, Alexa assistant control, speak to chat technology is a bonus. Definitely, WH-1000XM4 is one of the best AirPods Max alternatives in an ideal price range.

2. Master & Dynamic MW65 – One of the best AirPods max Alternatives with Beautiful Build

This M&D MW65 is best for you if you’re into the looks as well as a better audio experience. These headphones come with a beautiful combination of anodized aluminum and actual leather. The pair I am talking about here has brown leather and silver metal which gives this headphone a classic yet eye-catchy look.

Despite its looks, M&D MW65 has a noise cancellation feature alongside a couple of advanced features. For instance, USB-C charging support, swipe gestures controls, Alexa connectivity, a companion app, and EQ adjustments.

Moreover, the company claimed that it has a battery life of 24 hours. In short, you can make clear phone calls, enjoy a clear and crisp music experience, and can show off with its premium looks.

And, it won’t cost you half or full of your salary. You can buy M&D MW65 for $349 which is also half the price of AirPods Max.

3. Bose Noise Cancelling Wireless Bluetooth Headphones 700

I would love to recommend these headphones to users who love the sleek design, premium white color, and want to listen to music without any interruption. This pair comes with an Arctic white color and a stainless steel headband which gives it a sleek and premium look.

Bose is known for Ferrari of Music and it never disappointed its fans by producing quality products. This pair of headphones comes with an active noise cancellation of 11 levels. Plus, these headphones feature unrivalled voice pickup to adapt to noisy backgrounds. Therefore, you can attend to your phone calls without any distraction. Also, this pair of headphones produce a balanced, crisp, and clear sound. Even at a high volume level.

Moreover, these headphones come with intuitive touch controls on the earcups. You can use these controls to access Google Assistant, Alexa, and Spotify to know whether navigation or to listen to music. You can pair it with a certain Bose soundbar, such as Bose Smart Soundbar 300, 500, or 700. Also, you can get 20 hours of wireless battery life within a single charge.

4. Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless Headphones

In some countries, Sennheiser is known as an underrated company that produces the best sound products. It’s best known for its headphones and earphones devices.

Sennheiser released Momentum 3 Wireless Headphones in 2019 which was the successor of Momentum Wireless 2. You can see a couple of modern features in this headphones pair. For instance, USB-C charging, transparency mode, tile integration.

Also, you can use its companion app to adjust its EQ settings as well as the strength of its noise cancellation. Moreover, you’ll get an Auto on/off, smart pause feature alongside a three-button interface.

Furthermore, it gets pairs automatically with your phone on the first activation. Also, soft earpads and a genuine leather headband give you exceptional comfort during long usage. One of the best AirPods Max alternatives with style, comfort, and features.

5. Bose QuietComfort 35 II – One of the Best AirPods Max Alternatives under $300

These headphones are one of the best AirPods Max alternatives which have 4.7 out of 5-star ratings. Also, this pair comes in the price range of under $300, to be specific, it will cost you only $222.

Moreover, it has a lower price that doesn’t mean you won’t get a quality audio experience from it. Bose QuietComfort 35 II has world-class three levels of noise cancellation which gives you a better audio experience without any distraction.

Moreover, you can enable Alexa with it to access files, music, or other information by using your voice. Also, it comes with a voice pickup, balanced audio volume, and dual-microphone noise rejecting system. Therefore, you can attend phone calls with a clear and crisp sound experience.

Furthermore, you can connect through Bose connect app for personalized settings and future updates. Also, it features hassle-free Bluetooth pairing to easily connect your phone.

6. Shure AONIC 50 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

While researching the best AirPods Max alternatives, I found a comment on a publication. That user was saying to add Shure AONIC 50 wireless noise-canceling headphones to the list. That user also mentioned that these headphones aren’t great as Sony WH-1000XM4 but consist of great audio quality.

Moreover, it features an adjustable noise-canceling and environment mode. This mode eliminates distractions and background noises. And as a result, you get a clear listening experience whether it’s phone calling or music listening. Also, this headphone could be one of the best AirPods Max alternatives for you if you wear headphones for a long time. it is comfortable, durable, and you can fold them flat for portability. And, you can keep them in a protective carrying case that you will get with it.

Furthermore, it comes with Bluetooth 5 wireless technology to pair your phone in a range of up to 30 feet. Besides, you can connect an analog audio input through a 3.5mm jack. Also, you can customize EQ, environment mode, noise cancellation by using the ShurePlus Play app. In the end, you will get 20-hour battery life to continue your playback wirelessly.

7. Bowers & Wilkins PX7 – Best AirPods Max Alternative for better Sound Experience

This brand might unrecognize in some countries but it works like a charm when it comes to the best audio experience. This pair of headphones built by British sound engineers. And these engineers have built and designed Abbey Road studio’s speakers where Beatles recorded most of his music.

The design of this model is very modern yet classic. You also get adaptive noise cancellation and ambient pass-through technology. This technology allows you to remove unwanted background noises but at the same time allows you to hear the conversation without taking the headphones off. Also, these headphones are designed to hold you while traveling or going into a little motion. Moreover, it gives you 30 hours of battery life with a charge for 1 and a half hours.

Furthermore, these headphones automatically pause and play when you take them off and on. Also, you can add up to 8 Bluetooth devices with it. However, it cost you a little more than the other AirPods Max alternatives but if you want great sound quality, you can consider it an option.

8. Microsoft NEW Surface Headphones 2 (Matte Black) – Best for  Productivity and Office Use

These headphones are for people who love to be productive and want a pair of headphones with a simple design. Also, it is one of the AirPods Max alternatives that cost you half of the price of AirPods Max.

What makes these headphones different is the integration of Microsoft 365, and the other office programs. Also, you can use real-time voice dictation by wearing a Microsoft New Surface Headphones 2. Moreover, it allows you to adjust the volume and the noise-cancelling levels easily just by rotating the dials of the earcups. Also, you can play/pause your track, answer your calls by using the intuitive touch controls on them.

These headphones have comfortable and breathable earpads. Also, it comes with a Spectacular Omnisonic sound wrap experience while hearing your favorite music. Plus, you can enjoy this playback and focus on your work for straight 20 hours just in one charge.

9. Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 – One of the Best AirPods Max Alternatives under $50

I wanted to add a pair of headphones that can give a great sound experience at an extremely low price. So here it is, Plantronics BackBeat GO 810. This is cheaper than all the cheaper AirPods Max alternatives on the list and costs under $100. To be specific, it costs you $49.50.

There are three models of Plantronics BackBeat GO 810. One with a cost of $49.50, the second with a cost of $54.90, and the third one will costs you $84.93. I know this is too low for wireless headphones but it really exists. Also, it comes with a dual-mode active noise canceling feature which produces clear sound, even in a noisy background. It comes with a comfortable design, equipped with 40mm drivers for a better sound experience.

Furthermore, you can customize EQ settings using the Platronics BackBeat app. And, to continue your playback, it features a 22 hours long-lasting battery. Although the most standout feature is its price. 

10. Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

Beats is a well-known brand for producing quality headphones and earphones. Now if you’re the fashionable guy who wants to try headphones in different colors then Beats Solo3 is for you. Beats Solo3 which won an award-winning design comes with 10 different colors to choose from. From a single Silver color to a Yellow and Blue eye-catchy combo, you will get both in these headphones.

Despite the colors, these headphones also come with an Apple W1 chip. Therefore, you’ll get stable Bluetooth connectivity while using them with an iPhone. The standout feature of these headphones is the design which is sleek, stylish yet very durable and affordable.

Also, these headphones come with multi-functional controls on their ear-cups. You can use these controls to play/pause your music or to control Siri through your voice. Furthermore, you’ll get 40 hours of battery life. And, these headphones give you 3 hours of playback with a charge of 5 minutes.

11. Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling On-Ear Headphones

With a 4.6 out of 5-star ratings from 1783 users and with Apple’s W1 chip, that was definitely one of the best AirPods Max alternatives. Now Beats Solo 3 already told us how Beats works. It produces its audio products with great design as well as some exceptional tech specifications.

Moreover, Beats Studio3 Wireless headphones is one of the Apple Max alternatives that almost every publication will recommend you, after the Sony. It comes with a noise-canceling feature which works actually well. Also, it has Real-time Audio calibration which allows you to customize EQ as you see in other brands. In short, you can hear a clear and crisp voice without any outer world noise.

Moreover, it costs you less than $300 which is almost half the price of AirPods Max. Also, you can use these headphones for 22 hours long. Plus, you just need to charge it for 10 minutes to get 3 hours of playback. So, don’t worry if the battery is down and you’ve only 10 minutes to go.

12. Beats Solo Pro 

Now it is the third Beats product in a straight row. Honesty, I am not a sponsor of their brand but this product is a little different than the previous one. And, little things can make a big difference to some users.

First, these Beats headphones come a little costlier than the previous one. So if you’re willing to spend a little more on extra features, you can go with this one. Moreover, these headphones feature wireless noise cancellation alongside a transparency feature. The noise cancellation features reduce the external background noises. On the other hand, transparency mode allows you to hear your surrounding without taking off the headphones.

Moreover, these headphones come with an Apple H1 chip in place of the W1 chip we saw in the previous Beats model. As a result, you’ll get an extra 1-hour Talktime and a faster Bluetooth connectivity experience. Also, these headphones automatically on and off when you fold or unfold them. And hands-free controls allow you to give Siri commands on your iPhone. These headphones have a 22 hours battery life. And, like the previous device, you can also charge them for 10 minutes to get 3 hours of backup.

13. Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Over-Ear Headphone

With a tag of Amazon choice, a less expensive price of $177, and extremely high ratings of 4.8 out of 5, these headphones are actually one of the best AirPods Max alternatives. Although, I like that nametag- Crusher Evo.

If you love music and want to forget about what’s happening around the world, this is the one. I mean you can read the comments of this subwoofer devil. It comes with an adjustable sensory bass which makes every song remarkable when you’ll listen on these headphones. Moreover, you can customize sound according to your taste using the Skullcandy app.

You can easily pause/play your track, attend your call, and control volume using the controls on them. Also, it comes with 41 hours of battery life in one charge. And, you can get 4 hours of battery life with 10 minutes of charging. Unfortunately, this pair of headphones don’t come with noise cancellation. However, if you’re an audiophile, you won’t consider it a con. Especially, when you’ll listen to it.

14. Sony WHXB900 – Another AirPods Max Alternative from Sony with Extra Bass

It’s a quite difficult task to end the list with no so good device. So here is another pair of Sony headphones. It is also one of the AirPods Max alternatives with such 4.7 out of 5-star ratings.

This pair of headphones is for people who love Sony but don’t want to invest more than $200. It comes with a less expensive price tag of $159. The thing you would most like is its design which is the whole black. And, it gives you a glossy yet premium finishing at a lower price. Besides, these headphones are comfortable and durable. Therefore, you can wear them for long hours without any discomfort.

Furthermore, these pair of headphones come with a noise-canceling feature with extra bass technology. So, it is the best pair for listening to your favorite music track, even in a noisy place. Also, you can control it with voice commands and with the help of Google Assistant and Alexa integration. Moreover, it comes with 30 hours of battery life and gives you 60 minutes of battery life within the charging of 10 minutes.

At last, it comes with a 3.5 mm audio cable to listen to music with a wired connection. Overall, it is not great but one of the pretty decent AirPods Max alternatives under $200.

15. Apple AirPods with Wireless Charging Case – Best For Apple Device Pairing

• 5 Best Chess Apps for iPhone and iPad You Must Try
• 10 Best iPhone 12 Pro Max Camera Lens Protectors
• Fix Apple Fitness+ Not Showing Up on iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch