Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen) vs Bose QuietComfort 45
The Verdict
Apple AirPods Max deliver premium audio with computational spatial audio and dual H1 chips enabling dynamic head tracking, creating an immersive listening experience unmatched in this category. However, their 385g weight, lack of water resistance, and premium $549 price tag present significant trade-offs. Bose QuietComfort 45 offer exceptional value at $329, featuring industry-leading ANC with dual modes, superior 24-hour battery life (versus 20 hours), and a lighter 238g design with USB-C charging. While lacking spatial audio capabilities, the Bose excel in everyday comfort and practicality. Audiophiles prioritizing immersive soundscapes should choose AirPods Max; pragmatic listeners seeking comfort and battery longevity will find the QuietComfort 45 more satisfying.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen) if…
- →Exceptional sound quality with rich, detailed, balanced audio
- →Best-in-class ANC that rivals top over-ear headphones
- →Spatial Audio with head tracking is immersive and seamless
Buy the Bose QuietComfort 45 if…
- →Legendary Bose ANC is among the best in the industry
- →Incredibly comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- →Lightweight at 240 g — easy to forget you're wearing them
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen)
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality with rich, detailed, balanced audio
- Best-in-class ANC that rivals top over-ear headphones
- Spatial Audio with head tracking is immersive and seamless
- Premium aluminium and steel build quality feels genuinely luxurious
- Seamless and instant switching within the Apple ecosystem
Cons
- Very heavy at 385 g — can cause fatigue during long listening sessions
- Lightning charging is outdated (1st gen)
- No Bluetooth multipoint and limited functionality outside Apple ecosystem
- No hard case included — soft Smart Case does not protect well
- Premium price is hard to justify over cheaper alternatives
Bose QuietComfort 45
Pros
- Legendary Bose ANC is among the best in the industry
- Incredibly comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- Lightweight at 240 g — easy to forget you're wearing them
- 24-hour battery handles long trips without charging
- Reliable Bose sound signature with warm, balanced audio
Cons
- No LDAC or aptX — limited to SBC/AAC codecs
- No water resistance for outdoor or gym use
- Cannot adjust ANC levels — only full ANC or Aware mode
- Aware mode sounds less natural than Sony's ambient mode
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen) | Bose QuietComfort 45 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 385 g | 240 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 20 hrs (ANC and Spatial Audio on) | 24 hrs |
| Charging | Lightning | USB-C, 15 min = 3 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 40 mm Apple-designed dynamic driver | Bose proprietary driver |
| Features | Apple H1 chip per earcup (two chips total), Computational audio for dynamic EQ and ANC, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Seamless Apple device switching, Aluminum earcups and stainless steel headband, Smart Case | Active Noise Cancellation, Aware mode (transparency), Bose SimpleSync, Adjustable EQ via Bose Music app, Multipoint connection |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Bose products. View full details for the Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen) or the Bose QuietComfort 45.