Apple's popular over-ear headphones are now available at a significantly reduced price ahead of Amazon Prime Day. The AirPods Max with USB-C, which originally launched in 2024, are currently on sale for £357, down from £499, representing a 28 per cent saving. This deal is exclusive to Amazon Prime subscribers and is set to expire on June 26, 2026.
What's the Difference?
The USB-C version of the AirPods Max is nearly identical to the original 2020 model, with the main changes being the switch from Lightning to USB-C and the addition of new colour options. The newer AirPods Max 2, released recently, offers more effective active noise cancellation (ANC), enhanced sound quality, and features like Adaptive Audio and Live Translation. However, the discounted model remains an excellent choice for iPhone users.
Key Features of the Discounted AirPods Max
- Premium metal design with a digital crown-like volume dial and a button for switching between transparency and ANC modes
- Apple H1 chip for seamless connectivity across Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV
- Up to 20 hours of listening time with ANC enabled
- Available in Starlight, Blue, and Midnight colours
How Does It Compare to Rivals?
The Sony WH-1000XM6 is a strong competitor, currently priced at £329.99 (down from £399). It offers comparable ANC, a durable carry case, 30-hour battery life, and customisable audio through EQ controls. However, it relies on touch controls, which some may find fiddly. Another alternative is the Nothing Headphone (a) at £149, which boasts an incredible 135-hour battery life but lacks the premium build and Apple integration.
Considerations Before Buying
The AirPods Max come with a unique carry case that only covers the earcups, leaving the headband exposed. They also do not fold down, unlike the Sony model. While they work with Android phones, many iPhone-exclusive features like fast pairing and personalised spatial audio are unavailable on other platforms.
This deal requires an Amazon Prime subscription. New users can sign up for a 30-day free trial to take advantage of the offer.
