AirPods Max 2 are my Headphones of the Year Award despite their few clear flaws — here's why

I was utterly shocked when I discovered how much I adore the AirPods Max 2. I was not the only one surprised, as even Apple's rivals found their way onto the list of contenders for this year's Headphones of the Year at the TechRadar Product of the Year Awards. While Bowers & Wilkins has been a favorite in recent years, the open-back, wired D1 did not quite capture me.

However, the AirPods Max 2 manage to offer so much more for their price point. Despite the disappointment of some who voted for them in the TechRadar Readers' Choice Awards 2026, I firmly believe that these headphones deserve the accolade. Apple has poured its resources into creating a product that delivers an unrivaled audio experience.

Despite sharing some similarities with the 2020 originals, such as their design and reduced battery life, the AirPods Max 2 have made significant improvements under the hood. The new H2 chip has revolutionized the way these headphones perform, enhancing their sonic quality, ANC efficacy, and introducing new features like Live Translation, Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Head Gesture control, and the Camera Remote feature.

However, some functions require an iPhone 15 Pro or newer, which may be an issue for Android users. Regardless, Apple's AI-driven features truly elevate the listening and calling experience, making it seamless and effortless. I highly recommend enabling both noise cancellation and Conversation Awareness toggles for the best results, as they work together to minimize interruptions and create an immersive audio environment.

The AirPods Max 2 excel at isolating noise without causing discomfort or a pressure sensation usually associated with ANC in other headphones. Their comfortable mesh headband ensures a snug fit without digging into your head. These headphones have quickly become my go-to choice for both work and leisure, and I am confident that they deserve the prestigious title of Headphones of the Year.