Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Bose QuietComfort 35 II
The Verdict
Apple AirPods Max deliver premium sound with 40mm dynamic drivers and adaptive EQ tuning, leveraging the H1 chip for seamless Apple ecosystem integration and personalized spatial audio with head tracking. Bose QuietComfort 35 II remain solid all-rounders with excellent three-level ANC control, dedicated Google Assistant access, and lighter 235g construction compared to AirPods Max's 384.8g weight. Both offer 20-hour battery life with ANC enabled, though Bose includes wired listening with extended 40-hour battery. AirPods Max feature lossless USB-C audio (iOS 18+) and superior build quality with premium materials, while QC35 II costs $250 less and provide more practical portability. For Apple users valuing audio fidelity and spatial immersion, AirPods Max justify the premium. Budget-conscious listeners or Android users seeking reliable ANC will find excellent value in the QC35 II.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) if…
- →Premium aluminum and mesh build quality
- →Excellent ANC and transparency mode
- →Seamless integration across Apple devices
Buy the Bose QuietComfort 35 II if…
- →Legendary Bose noise cancellation that set the industry standard
- →Extremely comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- →20-hour battery life is solid for travel and commuting
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Pros
- Premium aluminum and mesh build quality
- Excellent ANC and transparency mode
- Seamless integration across Apple devices
- Now supports lossless audio via USB-C cable
Cons
- Very heavy compared to competitors
- No real power-off button, relies on Smart Case
- No multipoint outside Apple ecosystem
- Still uses Bluetooth 5.0, no LDAC or aptX
- Expensive
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Pros
- Legendary Bose noise cancellation that set the industry standard
- Extremely comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- 20-hour battery life is solid for travel and commuting
- Dedicated Google Assistant button for quick voice commands
- Foldable design and included hard case for portability
Cons
- Bluetooth 4.2 lacks modern codecs like aptX and LDAC
- Micro-USB charging port is outdated — not USB-C
- Sound quality is beaten by newer XM4 and XM5 models
- No multipoint Bluetooth for connecting two devices simultaneously
- Plastic build shows wear over time
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) | Bose QuietComfort 35 II |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 384.8 g | 235 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 20 hours ANC on | 20 hrs (wireless with ANC), 40 hrs (wired with ANC) |
| Charging | USB-C, 5 min = 1.5 hours quick charge | Micro-USB, 2.25 hrs for full charge, 15 min = 2.5 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 40mm dynamic with dual neodymium ring magnet motor | 40mm Bose custom drivers |
| Features | Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, Adaptive EQ, Transparency mode, Apple H1 chip, Lossless audio over USB-C (iOS 18) | Three levels of ANC (High, Low, Off), Google Assistant built-in (dedicated button), Bose AR (augmented reality) compatible, Volume-optimized EQ, Foldable design with carry case |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 4.2 with NFC pairing |
| 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 (USB-C) or the Bose QuietComfort 35 II.