Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
The Verdict
Apple AirPods Max deliver premium over-ear sound with exceptional build quality, personalized spatial audio, and 20-hour battery life, justifying their $549 premium for serious audiophiles seeking lossless audio compatibility. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro excel as versatile true wireless earbuds with IPX7 water resistance, intelligent ANC, and impressive 2-way drivers at half the price, making them ideal for active users and Android ecosystems. Sound quality on the AirPods Max surpasses the earbuds through larger 40mm drivers and Apple's tuning prowess, while the Galaxy Buds2 Pro's 5-hour earbud life feels limiting for all-day use despite the 18-hour case total. AirPods Max lack multipoint connectivity and water protection, whereas Samsung offers greater portability and IP rating. Choose AirPods Max if you prioritize audio quality and extended sessions; select Galaxy Buds2 Pro for practicality, water resistance, and significant cost savings.
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 Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro if…
- →24-bit Samsung Seamless codec for Hi-Fi audio quality on Galaxy devices
- →360 Audio with head tracking creates an immersive surround experience
- →Compact and lightweight at 5.5 g per earbud for comfortable fit
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
Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
Pros
- 24-bit Samsung Seamless codec for Hi-Fi audio quality on Galaxy devices
- 360 Audio with head tracking creates an immersive surround experience
- Compact and lightweight at 5.5 g per earbud for comfortable fit
- IPX7 water resistance handles sweat and rain confidently
- Voice Detect automatically pauses and enables transparency mode
Cons
- Samsung Seamless codec only works with Samsung Galaxy devices
- 5-hour ANC battery life is short — case extends to 18 hours
- No multipoint Bluetooth for dual-device connectivity
- Touch controls can be finicky and hard to activate consistently
- ANC is not as strong as Sony WF-1000XM5 or AirPods Pro 2
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) | Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 384.8 g | 5.5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 20 hours ANC on | 5 hrs (earbuds with ANC), 18 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, 5 min = 1.5 hours quick charge | USB-C, Qi wireless, 5 min = 1 hr playback |
| Drivers | 40mm dynamic with dual neodymium ring magnet motor | Custom coaxial 2-way driver (10mm woofer + 5.3mm tweeter) |
| Features | Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, Adaptive EQ, Transparency mode, Apple H1 chip, Lossless audio over USB-C (iOS 18) | Intelligent ANC with 3 adjustable levels, 360 Audio with head tracking, SmartThings Find for locating lost earbuds, Auto Switch between Samsung devices, Voice Detect for automatic transparency mode |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | Samsung Seamless (24-bit), AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IPX7 |
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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.
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