Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) vs Sennheiser HD 660S2
The Verdict
Apple AirPods Max deliver premium wireless convenience with industry-leading active noise cancellation powered by 9 microphones, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, and 20-hour battery life. Sound quality leans toward bass-forward consumer tuning rather than neutral reference. Sennheiser HD 660S2 are handcrafted German audiophile headphones featuring open-back design, 300-ohm impedance for dedicated amplification, and replaceable components,ideal for critical listening but require wired connectivity and external DAC/amp investment. AirPods Max suit mobile users prioritizing ANC and Spatial Audio integration with Apple devices; HD 660S2 cater to stationary audiophiles demanding transparency and customization. At $549 versus $499, AirPods Max offer broader appeal with wireless capability, while HD 660S2 require additional amp purchases ($200-500+) to reach their potential. Recommendation: Choose AirPods Max for daily versatility and noise isolation; select HD 660S2 only if you already own quality amplification and value open-back staging over convenience.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) if…
- →Outstanding sound quality with rich, detailed audio across all frequencies
- →Best-in-class ANC with 9-microphone array blocks virtually all noise
- →Premium build with stainless steel, aluminum, and mesh canopy
Buy the Sennheiser HD 660S2 if…
- →Reference-grade sound with improved bass over the original HD 660S
- →Both 6.35mm and 4.4mm balanced cables included in the box
- →Open-back design creates a wide, natural soundstage
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods Max (Lightning)
Pros
- Outstanding sound quality with rich, detailed audio across all frequencies
- Best-in-class ANC with 9-microphone array blocks virtually all noise
- Premium build with stainless steel, aluminum, and mesh canopy
- Digital Crown provides precise, tactile volume and playback control
- 20-hour battery life easily lasts multiple days of use
Cons
- Extremely expensive at $549 — most costly consumer headphones
- 384.8 g is noticeably heavy for long listening sessions
- Lightning port instead of USB-C is frustrating
- Smart Case doesn't fully protect the headphones and looks odd
- No power button — relies on Smart Case for low power mode
Sennheiser HD 660S2
Pros
- Reference-grade sound with improved bass over the original HD 660S
- Both 6.35mm and 4.4mm balanced cables included in the box
- Open-back design creates a wide, natural soundstage
- Lightweight at 260 g for an audiophile over-ear
- Replaceable parts make it a long-term investment
Cons
- 300-ohm impedance requires a dedicated amp/DAC to drive properly
- Wired only — no Bluetooth option
- Open-back leaks significant sound — not for shared spaces
- $499 is steep for headphones that need additional equipment
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) | Sennheiser HD 660S2 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 384.8 g | 260 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 20 hrs with ANC | N/A (wired) |
| Charging | Lightning, 5 min = 1.5 hrs playback | N/A |
| Drivers | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver | 42mm dynamic transducer, 300 ohm impedance |
| Features | Active Noise Cancellation with 9 microphones, Transparency mode, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Adaptive EQ, Digital Crown for volume control, Stainless steel frame with aluminum ear cups, Mesh knit canopy headband | Open-back audiophile design, 300-ohm impedance for dedicated amp/DAC use, Balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn cable included, Replaceable ear pads and cables, Handmade in Germany |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | None (wired only) |
| 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 Sennheiser products. View full details for the Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) or the Sennheiser HD 660S2.