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- Table of Contents
- Top
- Main Differences
- Sound
- Design
- Isolation
- Microphone
- Active Features
- Connectivity
- Comments
Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless vs Apple AirPods Max
Side-by-Side Comparison
Products
Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless
Apple AirPods Max
Tested using Methodology v1.6
Updated Mar 14, 2024 07:40 PM
SEE PRICE
Amazon.comTested using Methodology v2.0
Updated May 16, 2025 03:54 PM
SEE PRICE
Amazon.com
TypeOver-ear
Noise CancellingYes
EnclosureClosed-Back
WirelessYes
TransducerDynamic
MicYes
TypeOver-Ear
Noise CancellingYes
EnclosureClosed-Back
Bass AmountSlightly Emphasized (1 dB)
WirelessYes
TransducerDynamic
Treble AmountUnderemphasized (-4 dB)
MicYes
Sound SignatureWarm
Variants
- WH-1000XM3 (Black)
- WH-1000XM3 (White)
- AirPods Max (USB-C) (Blue)
- AirPods Max (Lightning) (Green)
- AirPods Max (USB-C) (Midnight)
- AirPods Max (USB-C) (Orange)
- AirPods Max (Lightning) (Pink)
- AirPods Max (USB-C) (Purple)
- AirPods Max (Lightning) (Silver)
- AirPods Max (Lightning) (Sky Blue)
- AirPods Max (Lightning) (Space Gray)
- AirPods Max (USB-C) (Starlight)
Our Verdict
Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless
Apple AirPods Max
The Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless are good headphones, but if you use iOS, the Apple AirPods Max are also a good choice. The Sony are more comfortable, have a sturdier case, and have a more stable fit. You can tweak their sound via the graphic EQ found in the Sony app. However, the Apple headphones have an H1 chip, which makes it easier to pair with other Apple products seamlessly. They also charge up in less time and have a standby mode to help conserve battery life.