Apple has turned its premium headphones with the arrival of the Max Airpods with USB-C, a change that, although expected, has generated doubts among users which option should acquire. Is it worth making the leap to the new version or the original Max Airpods with Lightning are still the best option?
With the last IOS 18.4 updatethe differences between both models have been clearer than ever, and it is time to analyze whether the change of port really justifies the investment.
Airpods Max: versions and characteristics
The Original Airpods Max They were launched in 2020 with an iconic design, high quality materials and an enveloping sound that positioned them as one of the most premium headphones on the market. However, in 2024 Apple decided to update the model with a new range of colors and a USB-C port instead of the classic lightning. At that time, the only remarkable difference was the change of port, but with the arrival of iOS 18.4, the functions of the Max Airpods with USB-C have received a significant impulse.
One of the biggest inconveniences of the USB-C model in its launch was the lack of compatibility with the cable connection to external audio sources, something that did allow the lightning version with a 3.5 mm jack cable. Apple has corrected this with the new update, adding support for cable connection by means of a USB-C adapter at 3.5 mm.
But the big difference comes in audio quality. Apple has confirmed that the Max with USB-C are capable of Play lossless audio at 24 bits and 48 kHz when they connect with a USB-C cable to USB-C, a significant improvement with respect to the lightning version, which could only reach this quality with an analog-digital conversion process. Another key point is latency. While the Max Airpods with Lightning already offered a low latency audio experience with its 3.5 mm cable, Apple stressed that the USB-C version has “ultra-low latency” when using a USB-C cable to USB-C.
In addition, the new USB-C Max Airpods include an exclusive function: the ability to create and mix audio in personalized space audio with head tracking. At the aesthetic level, Apple has taken advantage of the USB-C version to renew the color palette, offering new options such as Starlight, Midnight, Blue, Purple and Orange, in contrast to the most classic tones of the Lightning version.
Regarding availability and price, Max Airpods with Lightning They have been officially discontinued, but they can still be found in third-party stores at lower prices than the USB-C model. This raises the key question: is it worth paying more for the USB-C version?
Airpods Max with USB-C: Do they deserve or not?
If you are looking for premium headphones to listen to music, watch movies or enjoy space audio without the need for cable connection, the Max with Lightning are still an excellent and more affordable option. They offer the same noise cancellationsame mode of transparency and identical construction quality as the new version, but at a reduced price in many stores.
On the other hand, if you want the best possible audio experience with quality lossless and lower latency, the USB-C airpods are the best option. The possibility of enjoying loss without loss They make them a stronger long -term investment.
Both models remain one of the best headphones in the market, but the final decision will depend on how much you value the improvement in sound quality and the compatibility with the Apple ecosystem. If you find a good offer in the Lightning version, it can be a smarter purchase.
