Apple’s AirPods Max noise-canceling headphones can be expensive – $ 549 to be more precise – but they’re selling so well that Apple can’t keep them in stock. And while they may not be as popular as standard AirPods and AirPods Pro, Max is the latest example of a high-profile Apple product that creates its own home industry for dedicated accessories. In fact, there are already a number of AirPods Max add-ons, including traditional “shell” cases, charging stands and earmuffs and bandanas. Here is a look at some of the best accessories available. Note that I only tested all three, while the others are alternatives that I think are cheap enough to be worth rolling the dice. I will update this list as more people arrive (and as I have more practical experience with them).
Read More: Best noise-canceling headphones for 2021
David Carnoy / CNET
When Apple launched the AirPods Max, it was very saddened by the unusual protective cover of the headphones, which attracted many comparisons of bras and bags and was criticized for not fully protecting the headphones. I wasn’t as depressed as the others, but I knew that soon we would see a lot of third party cases, and several have already arrived, including the $ 89 Max Shield case from Waterfield Design.
In addition to its chic design, what makes it different from all the generic $ 20 to $ 25 boxes that appear on Amazon is that it has a “magnetic butterfly” that puts AirPods Max in low power mode, just like the magnets on the Apple cover do. In other boxes, you stick the AirPods Max (with the lid) on the box – they don’t have magnets.
The Max Shield was designed to house the AirPods Max naked – or with its cover – and has an internal pouch to store the included USB-C charging cable for Lightning or the optional 3.5mm Lightning audio cable for listening with thread. There is also an external zippered pocket, as well as an external elastic mesh pocket for storing additional items. Max Shield is available in eight color variations.
See this:
Practical AirPods Max: new noise cancellation system
9:06
David Carnoy / CNET
Apple doesn’t include a wired listening cable with AirPods Max, which is quite annoying because the fact is that AirPods Max sounds better in wired mode and is sometimes easier to connect to a device than to pair wirelessly, especially if you have non-Apple devices that are not in your iCloud account.
The easiest way to hear high-resolution audio is to connect it to a Mac or Windows PC and load some FLAC files, which I did. Of course, you can also listen to streaming services in this way (and any other audio). The volume levels were too high on the MacBook Pro I was using and I experienced a subtle but noticeable increase in audio quality, going for the wired route.
In addition, the cable eliminates any latency, which can be a factor during gaming or music production. Note that AirPods Max still needs a battery to provide audio, even in wired mode; there is no “passive mode” available.
Apple cable listings are $ 35, but you can buy it for $ 30. Available in black or white.
Best buy
Anker’s Lightning cable for 3.5mm wired listening costs $ 5 less than Apple’s cable.
Amazon
If you drop your AirPods Max headphones on the wrong surface, the aluminum headphones can damage. That’s where a silicone ear protector can save the day. There are many of them available on Amazon in many color options. The Seltureone model is currently rated best by users – and costs about $ 12 – so this is my current choice in this category. But that can change as new versions become available.
Amazon
The AirPods Max mesh infused headband is designed to be quiet and robust, but this headband cushion serves three purposes: it offers some increased protection for the mesh, adds some extra cushion to the top of your head and personalizes the appearance of the headphones.
It is available in some color options and can be easily removed and washed.
Amazon
You can find several AirPods Max hard cases on Amazon with prices ranging from $ 17 to $ 30. This case does not incorporate magnets to put the AirPods Max in its low-energy standby state, but it does have a luxurious interior, a slot for storing a power adapter and comes in several color options for $ 23.
Aukey
AirPods Max includes a USB-C to Lightning charging cable in the box, but no power adapter. This affordable 2-port Aukey Swift 30W USB-C charger lets you charge your AirPods Max and iPhone (or other device) at the same time. The list is $ 15, but currently there is an instant coupon of 30% off that brings the price down to under $ 11. Best phone and gadget chargers for 2021.
Amazon
This is your basic silicone rubber charging cradle for the AirPods Max. After passing the charging cable through the cradle, you are ready to proceed (no cables are included). Hopefully, this will decrease in price. It should be closer to $ 10.
Read More: Best AirPods Pro Accessories