AirPods Max vs. Sony XM4: Pick the Right One

[@Ghost-cw4sf]

The title says it all : "pick the right one"

[@twilight1599]

lol

[@kd6788]

Whose right?? His or mine🤔

[@Babi1376]

@@kd6788 of course yours ;D

[@nl3712]

🤣🤣🤣

[@theearthisbread]

The Sony sounds like shit.

[@BrandonJohn]

I really loved how you do the noise cancellation test by putting the mini mic in the headphones so we can imagine how it’s feels before buying it. Not many reviewers can do that. One of the reasons i loved this channel. 🔥🙌🏻

[@StuWright]

i was surprised the anc was better on the airpods, you could hear it was

[@nanyabiznus4738]

@@StuWright it did sound better. but now people are saying its not good as it was.

[@coolmonkey5269]

i think anc was slightly better on airpods bcz of passive earfoam sealing tightly ofcourse airpods is very tight uncomfortable to wear

[@murdasixxmane]

@Beaner it depends if you play your music to the max

[@myouimadara513]

that ambient and noise cancellation test is insanely good

[@fikry2655]

except he didnt mention that airpod max actually cancelling outside noise selectively when you are moving around. xm4 noise cancellation are more neutral

[@murphl]

I don’t know about everyone but I’d like to mention one small advantage for us students in the xm4... I use them especially for their noise cancellation and can keep them on without any ear fatigue for at least 5-6 hours at a stretch....I don’t know if you can achieve that with the Apple since the weight and high clamp force will tire your ears easily.....anyways this is for us students who’d love to emulate a quiet surrounding and for long periods.... -

[@sephirothcld4520]

Sony Xm4s are so much better and now they are even priced better than before. You can't even change the eq on the airpods max

[@nekogaming8461]

Huh AirPods Max are more comfortable. There’s a blind reaction video on KZbin

[@sacredbread]

@@nekogaming8461 it's a matter of preference, my friend

[@kasper2917]

@@nekogaming8461 dude didnt even read the comment and starting spewing out nonsense

[@nekogaming8461]

@@kasper2917 what nonsense?

[@rozioaudi]

What Most people never talk about of XM4 in Android is NFC. One touch and not only the headphone start but connect immediately. The second advantage for me is LDAC, where if you have better audio quality files, it really makes a difference. Thirdly, the case is so much better in XM4

[@lowkey7671]

The thing is ldac isn't supplied on iOS devices, so xm4's ldac streaming only takes affect for android users. So it wouldn't rly be an advantage over airpods maxes, as they aim straight for ios users.

[@PurushNahiMahaPurush]

I found the ldac thing to be alright. If you have lossless audio on your phone, you most likely also have a portable DAC. And the upgrade to LDAC was noticeable but not worth the sacrifice in battery life of both my phone and my headphones. Also multipoint connectivity does not work with ldac. I would rather prefer to have quality of life features over ldac, if I had to choose. AirPods Max already prove that even with 256kbps bitrate, you can have great sounding headphones.

[@dhruvpatel6604]

Do you listen to flac files on your xm4?

[@Chase_Anderson]

The other issue if you want to use LDAC is you can only connect to one device, that’s a deal breaker for me.

[@barelyfree9427]

Eh, it's not exactly hard to pair bluetooth now a days, plus if you have an apple device that pairing is easier than NFC. LDAC only works on some android phones...and nothing else so....yeah. Yeah Airpods Max case is moronic, agreed :D

[@elozone3014]

I just got my new Sony Xm4 and ohhh boy. The sound quality and noise canceling are awesome. And they have a lot of functions to use them as you want. I love it.

[@xMaFiaKinGz]

How is bass on that thing, Do you use IOS or Andriod. I am planing to switching from my Custom iEM that rock 2 Dynamic drivers and 1 armature driver in each ear piece. I mostly listen to trap, And mix of everything. Its great all rounder. With clear Low, Mids and High. Specially vocals.

[@The-Cookie]

Ikr i tried it out yesterday it was great!

[@The-Cookie]

Ikr i tried it out yesterday it was great!

[@xMaFiaKinGz]

The Cookie How was the bass ?

[@The-Cookie]

@@xMaFiaKinGz it was actually super good.I tried out a few bass songs with it and it handled it perfectly :D

[@MiguelCusati]

The Airpods Max are working as an advertisement for the XM4's.

[@BlueblueN]

What is that dumbass looking top part on the apple one lol

[@BlueblueN]

Also, almost 400g on your head is gonna HURT after some time, i have a super light pair not even 200g and after some time it starts to hurt a bit

[@CoFGillesdeRais]

It really is. I bought my XM4’s when the apple ones came out lol

[@sidehoe]

@@BlueblueN the weight isn’t an issue for me for the AirPods, I usually use both 3 hours at a time. The clamp force is a valid issue, but I find that if you extend the arms a little further in both sides, the issue disappears

[@ares9619]

@@sidehoe do you have both

[@nafiskarimnafis724]

Finally a detailed comparison. I don't know why other reviewers are trying to delicately skip this one.

[@52incredible]

beacuse of price difference

[@rocklover3300]

Because if they don't tell you that the Apple ones are a "smart buy" they get blacklisted by the fruit company

[@josir1994]

@@rocklover3300 Like Linus and Lew already earned their fruit blacklist

[@hunternelson7627]

I was legitimately surprised to see that you don't even have a million subs. Your quality is top notch. Keep it up, I like the stuff.

[@MarkSpurrell]

Thank you!

[@willy7968]

@@MarkSpurrell nice video I’m actually surprised you didn’t mention the fact that XM4 sounds way way way way way better on Android than iPhone wirelessly, cos of the bit rate. I have tested the Airpod Max, Xm4 is still the beast

[@goaty5779]

Maybe because this dude is biased as fuck

[@goaty5779]

@AddictedSam it’s okay that you think Sony headphones are any good I’d much rather go with a Philips

[@Garhobson]

One feature of the XM4 is the Speak to Chat which activates Transparency mode and pauses the audio when you speak. Can be useful without having to use your hand to cover the sensor pad. People who sing along will find it annoying, but a short cut to turn the feature on and off without needing to reach for the app is to a two finger press and hold on the earpad, toggles the mode. Most reviews don't mention this. A draw back with the XM4 multipoint feature is that bluetooth connections defaults to only SBC codec when actively connected to two devices.. LDAC is only available when connected to one device.

[@MarkSpurrell]

I talked about the speak to chat feature in this video, but yes, that is a good point about the multipoint feature that switches LDAC back to SBC.

[@Garhobson]

@@MarkSpurrell Yes you did, my point wasn't that you didn't sorry :) But more about the two finger toggle that seems to be not in the manual ( or I didn't read clearly). Saw this in another review.

[@amitycatperson]

Me listening on the XM4's. "I think I made the right choice by saving $500" (The Airpods Max and $900 in Aus)

[@madlena2005]

Max's price is 599 CHF in my country. Price for Sony is 320-350 CHF.

[@omiddabir]

I am thinking about the same thing. How does it pair with Apple ecosystem?

[@Stockfish1511]

@@omiddabir have both. Sony shits on apple. I also have xm3 and xm2 which both are better in terms of sound quality and style. Though earliers xms didnt have multidevice conection, but still better in terms of sound quality

[@sungmaa4345]

in France, it cost 635 euros The Airpods Max is

[@omiddabir]

@@Stockfish1511 thanks, I got XM4 and it is really great! Thanks for replying 🙏🏻

[@ElNietoPR]

“Pick the Right One” as in pick the one on the right side?

[@MarkSpurrell]

You could look at it that way :)

[@VisheshSharma]

Your right or his right?

[@勝國-s7q]

@@VisheshSharma I think that means his right. So right!!

[@orangejuicepony6881]

Right.... 🙄

[@arjuntamble8008]

That's right.

[@jamsheeddevotee7588]

So it's certainly not the intended use, but I've had XM2 & 3s that I used on the flight line as PPE. I wear gloves often and the touch controls still worked even when wet. I have been out in the rain, snow, and sands with em with no issues either. The adjustable noise cancellation is great because you can find the right setting and still be able to hear people talking or the radio and keep your ears protected.

[@aryanz82]

I love the XM4s as it made the XM3s cheaper.

[@mannylandis3217]

Great review and I really appreciate your attention to detail. About 10 years ago I couldn’t stand Apple and loved Android; however I slowly but surely started to live in the Apple ecosystem and couldn’t be happier. That aside, I decided on the XM4s, because I wanted the freedom of the EQ and my wallet. They are simply amazing.

[@dangerousman4071]

Same situation

[@carterblanc7856]

How is transparency mode?

[@accidentalinfluencer]

@@carterblanc7856 transparency mode pretty good

[@Bilingueen6mois]

Same situation !!

[@mercy_jace3414]

Did the quality of the headphones go down when connected to an Apple device?

[@robappleby583]

I have the XM3's and they are fantastic - not as fantastic as my studio headphones, but fantastic for everyday listening.

[@mattriarchal]

I hope you don’t mean beats studio haha

[@robappleby583]

@@mattriarchal no.

[@ashu0102]

Which studio headphone are you using ?😊

[@wasti6745]

@@ashu0102 the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pros are fantastic

[@wadimek116]

@@wasti6745 They are average for the price

[@SaidAlSeveres]

I can’t believe the air pod max don’t automatically turn off or have an off button. Absurd lol I’m so glad I got the XM4s

[@alpt7944]

The pros on the AirPods max outrun the xm4s

[@overkilljames2010]

@@alpt7944 wym “outrun”

[@eobardthawne19]

@@overkilljames2010 outweigh

[@47MarkP]

the power saving mode on the Max is great. it also enables location tracking which no headphones offer. the max go on power saving after 5 mins of not using them. when you put them in the case, it also does the same thing, it’s not going to turn off the headphones after a couple days of not using it. it will stay on. Apple has a different way of “battery management” on their phone, phone case and headphones. they just want customer to use their pair of headphones without worrying about on/off switch.

[@injecthd5252]

@@47MarkP the XM4's turn off by themselves as well... lol

[@shutyrhole]

I know this doesn't apply to everyone, though arguably more these days, but the importance of call quality is an issue. If you plan to use headphones for video conferencing, the Sonys are not a great option on Bluetooth mode. I got lots of complaints about not being to hear me clearly at times. I tested them by recording video and occasionally the sound will grow tinny, staticky and muffled. It has happened enough that I only used them with the wired jack now on video. I wouldn't think much of it if they weren't essentially supposed to be one of Sony's best. I looked into it and it's a pretty common issue going back to the XM3's. I don't know how the AirPods Max fare, but regular AirPods seem to do much better. So I guess the suggestion at the end of buying both makes sense if you plan to do any video conferencing.

[@balosbleus152]

Wow for this review. I was comparing between Air Pod Max, XM4 and Bose 700. Ultimately got the XM4 after all the reviews. This one just puts the cherry on top.

[@gtrr3246]

Tested them both at bestbuy, went with Sony instead. If you’re the average listener you wouldn’t notice at all unless you pay attention to these small details, only things y’all notice would be the price and weight. Apple does cancel out the noise a bit better during my testing but not to the point of a deal breaker or justification for the huge price gap.

[@user-cs9by8jd6l]

The way you show, or hear should I say, us how the noise cancellations sound to ears is great

[@alexsamho]

I’ve owned apple AirPods Max, sony xm4s and AirPods Pro 2. The Sony xm4 by far had the best bass which is what I prefer, but the max and pro 2s definitely connect a lot faster to your iPhone which is convenient. I gave the XM4 to my sister but I might ask for them back and give her my max lol

[@mickeytollison]

I would say louder bass but not necessarily better bass.

[@frankyfarset]

before i even got 15 seconds into the video, i fell in love with the aesthetic of this video. NICE JOB!

[@ryry8327]

Two things I just wanted to add: - The AirPods Max don't come with a manual equaliser but it does have an adaptive one that automatically adjusts it for you. - Also, the XM4s may have LDAC but in order to use LDAC bluetooth codec you will have to use an android phone as iOS does not support anything other than AAC as of right now. Either way, great video! I think this was a wonderful review and very informative :)

[@clement09141993]

Sony all the way and it's on the right side. I have the XM4 btw :p

[@cadettmahoney]

Great attention to detail. I must admit I’m an apple fanboy but even I would choose the XM4 over the AirPod Max. They just sound better and I really like the adjustable EQ

[@ImpactSpace]

same here!

[@kiiturii]

I could imagine a lot of people immediately saying no to the airpods because of the stupidity of the case design, the fact that you can't turn them off without the case is insane lol

[@mickeytollison]

That is incredibly subjective. I would say as many people think the Max’s sound better as do others thinking the XM4s sound better.

[@binary_ironclad]

I'm having a hard time finding anything bad to say about the XM4's. Easily the best headphones I've ever had. *Not an audiophile; I'm sure there are far more superior headsets out there for a lot more money.

[@Senorgrav]

The ONLY thing I don’t like of the M4 is you hear the plastic when your first putting them on. That’s literally the only bad thing tho.

[@bighit20100]

The plastic arms holding the earcups are absolutely horrible design for a premium headset… I have had Sony headset before and loved them to death, but they are dead now because of the plastic cracking after a drop from hip height and the earcups hanging by a wire after that…

[@metatronmen2431]

Im listening this video with the sony headphones right now in my PC, kids playing outside and I cant ever hear them, very happy with the XM4.

[@tusiimenoel]

I'm not sure this is safe for the kids

[@metatronmen2431]

@@tusiimenoel They are not my kids they guardian should watch over them like I did with my 4 kids, Kids need to play and be kids, I understand that and I let them play and enjoy they beautiful world but listen yells and screaming in the peace of your place is annoying so problem solved, I love my XM4's.

[@tusiimenoel]

@@metatronmen2431 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾 Nicely done with the 4 sir, now i get your perspective

[@Meerios3]

I just bought the Xm4’s and I don’t have a single bad thing to say about them, the design is beautiful and it’s just looks so good

[@akaufmann]

I followed your instructions and am now listening with my brandnew XM4s, THANK YOU, because daaaaammmnnn they’re good

[@rutgertruyers831]

I was able to test the AirPods max for 1 week. GREAT sound quality but that's it. The APM was initially very comfortable, but they were very heavy and the clamping force was so strong that it became uncomfortable after 30 min. Had to send them back as they literally hurt my Jaws.

[@y69t56]

u have a big head

[@dislilpotatoe8105]

this is by far the best review I've ever watched

[@anirudhbenguluri7811]

Xm4 have active ambient mode means you can have complete control of how much ambient noise you let into your headphones. So it's little bit more useful

[@benzenering858]

Best comparison review between APMax &XM4 that I’ve ever seen. Detailed info but not hard selling! Thanks for your video, I’ll choose XM4

[@blinkingred]

Did we listen to the same noise cancelling test? Cause to my ear the Sony's were the winner

[@sidehoe]

I have both, imo the Sony’s have better ANC

[@JoyMahendru]

@@sidehoe you must be rich bruh

[@sidehoe]

@@JoyMahendru got a fat discount for the AirPods, not worth btw but I’m rlly happy with them

[@JoyMahendru]

@@sidehoe good for you

[@xRay5454]

Got both, Sony's slightly better with constant noises, APM's way better with unexpected noises, making it the better choice imo

[@Anonymous183-]

XM4 is more cost friendly. Airpods Max is overall better ( slightly better ) but more expensive. The cost friendliness of the XM4 is what makes it the best headphones to buy. When it comes to sound quality and comfortability, I’d go for AirPods Max any day. Plus Airpods Max goes better with the Apple Ecosystem

[@brianhakey2287]

Easily the best and most thorough review out there. Bravo 👏 sir!

[@ayayin2192]

I have the sony m3 and wow, no need for anything else (right now)

[@ghhhhhhhhhhhjjjjjjjjjj]

@WarLead2792 there are 2 sony headphones that end with m3

[@MehmetKoseDev]

same

[@michaelcarson8375]

I do too. I actually use the 3.5mm jack with my pc too.

[@Airino231]

I have a question, is the sound quality better when you have ANC on or off?

[@bruno5272]

that noise cancellation test with the mini mic was just amazing!! Nice video!!

[@crazy_tulip1552]

Totally agree with you. The AirPods Max focuses too much on being an apple product rather than opening its demographic up to all types of users. I’ll be going with the XM4s. Just found out they come in a silver color which is pretty neat too.

[@dread8900]

all apple products do that. shouldn’t be surpised

[@GOBLlN]

Just bought my xm4 last week cant wait for them to arrive

[@Ryanstuff]

LDAC for the win. Most people are going to listen wirelessly and there's simply no beating the LDAC quality standard.

[@mrfrosty3]

I use a Sony phone with the XM4 using LDAC, I get a secure stable connection all over my city centre apartment and outside. I also use LDAC with wireless DAC/amps and again, no interference in busy places.

[@necondaa]

Yawn LDCAC is an L

[@raymondtan892]

Still rocking with my xm3, save me a bunch from spending insanely more on the pro max.

[@faescott4216]

i have the xm4's and i'm convinced they're actually the best headphones of their kind on the market

[@wasw]

They are.

[@xRay5454]

I have them too and really like them. But they're way too bassy for my taste

[@KamiL1Bojar]

Only reason to buy airpods is apple ecosystem so if you dont have ipad and iphone its no reason to buy them in my opinion

[@xRay5454]

@@KamiL1Bojar I disagree. I'm in the Apple ecosystem this year (I switch every year) and there's more than that. If you're ok with the idea of spending that much, they're extremely good headphones

[@LW62_Gaming]

I’m fully in to the Apple ecosystem and I have the Sony XM4’s. I have made them sound incredible by doing the frequency adjustments in the app, and I genuinely don’t see the AirPods max being worth the extra money, even in the ecosystem. Especially since the AirPods Pro have so many connection issues

[@DanniEfraim]

Speaking as someone who owns both the AirPods Max and the predecessor of the XM4, the XM3, I agree with almost everything in this review. Personally, I absolutely love the AirPods and I think they’re way superior in almost every way. The sound and ANC is superior and the automatic device switching makes my life so much easier. The XM3’s don’t have multipoint so I’ve always just kept them paired with my computer and just used my AirPods Pro with my phone. But I can certainly appreciate that the AirPods Max are not the obvious choice for everyone, especially if you’re not an Apple user in general. I would argue one thing is incorrect in this review, though. The headphones go into a low power mode when you put them in the case, yes. But if you just take them off and don’t put them into the case, they still go into the same low power mode after only five minutes. I haven’t used the case a single time and I think phantom drain is a non-issue. They lose a few percent of battery life per day if they’re lying around outside the case.

[@desireless4092]

The case and battery thing is probably one of the most retarded things I've seen... How do you support such a stupid decision from such a greedy company? Seriously I am curious. The XM4 and Sennhaiser Momentum 3 destroy these and they dont use: 1 - the absolutely annoying and antagonistic proprietary Lighting port 2 - superior carry cases I bet the carry case for the pods is super expensive for no logical reason.

[@Taffy2Laffy]

I loved the xm4's for the first week of ownership, unfortunately, they developed a static/crackling noise, which I wasn't able to ignore. I thought Sony made quality products, but that noise with ANC turned on made it sound even louder. Returned, looking for new headphones.

[@saaaleeeh]

Have Same with air pod Mac

[@h3dgeh0g96]

Mine are fine after 1 month. Might just be those particular headphones

[@johnm8936]

I get that the AirPods max are over priced, but I’m super interested in the metal and modular design of them. I have a long history of breaking headphones, cause I’m dumb and wear them whilst going to sleep. So I’m low key really liking the idea of a modular design to easily replace parts, and a more durable metal design. But I’m currently broke and can’t afford either pair :(

[@luc1.1]

u hv cash app?

[@SquidsBigBass]

@@danksquidwardhe didn’t even do anything

[@jesba9708]

Please make a lava lamp review

[@vkohli17]

15.4k away now (;

[@arisaardi7576]

Ma duude..

[@shiddygameshow4680]

I'm convinced you are a bot now haha

[@jesba9708]

@@shiddygameshow4680 I am no such thing

[@jesba9708]

@Luqmanul Hakim ew

[@CantcerCause]

You can also turn on the XM4's by running your phones NFC over the headphone's NFC pad. I think that small detail is pretty cool as well.

[@nickiannetta7675]

How do you do that and does it work on apple phones

[@geneyumang9554]

there is already a new airpod max coming soon with new colors... airpod max $200 more +++ than the XM4s

[@TheDryToalla]

This reviewer is highly underrated and I can guarantee he will be highly successful! Keep delivering these excellent videos pal! 👌

[@MarkSpurrell]

Thanks Ray!

[@nakulg]

Soo true 💯

[@MrGodbodyNewday]

He is good, but he is like every other reviewer. Even his decoration is like someone copy pasted it from some other video. If he wants to succeed he needs his own style, he needs to be noticed or else he will drown.

[@pbthapa9439]

I agree with the above comments. He is very underrated reviewer. I love his presentation.

[@goaty5779]

He is biased

[@Jabber-ig3iw]

Bought the AirPods max, very happy with them, and that’s all that matters.

[@TexanInParis06]

It’s not entirely true that you can’t adjust the sound profile on AirPods Max, but it’s hidden under Settings / Accessibility / Audio & Visual / Headphone Accommodations.

[@walkslow7509]

Helpful review, thanks. No brainer, Sony for the win here. I just ordered a pair of XM4 headphones. The overpriced, purse-like-bra-like Airpods just look ridiculous, not easy to travel with, and vulnerable to damage. Apple obviously didn't think this through.

[@youreprobablymad6648]

Very incorrect

[@NickyNicest]

Ya they did. People will buy apple nearly for the fact that it’s Apple. You can’t convince an Apple enthusiast that anything else is better. That’s why they can charge what they charge and penny pinch you for any minor accessory, like the $35 headphone Jack. Apple knows what they are doing.

[@youreprobablymad6648]

@@NickyNicest but do you deny that there has to be a victor in the “who’s better” category? I’ll gladly throw away my AirPods for a good set of Sony headphones. I just returned the XM4’s and the LinkBuds both due to poor sound quality. What have I not returned? Airpod Pros. That’s not to say apple doesn’t make mistakes (see entire beats lineup). This one is simple, AirPods are the king of Bluetooth buds, FOR NOW. Sony has the ability but not the ambition.

[@samuelgilbert1080]

@@youreprobablymad6648 i 100% agree with this. i don’t have airpods max but i do have airpods pros and even those have outperformed some other over ear headphones i have had. the airpods won almost every category in this video besides not lack of eq options, not having LDAC (which to me didn’t even make that much of a difference), and obviously the price. the maxs really shine and people really just like hate on apple because it’s apple and no other reason really.

[@lattkrankt3220]

@@youreprobablymad6648 correct*

[@shubhamaggarwal8957]

Me having wired earphones and no money to buy any of them, Hmm interesting

[@Akshaj_Rao]

Lol relatable 😂. I'm hearing with a wired 100 RS earphone 🤣

[@Kinobambino]

@@Akshaj_Rao 100 what? I got these on an airplane

[@Akshaj_Rao]

@@Kinobambino lol I'm talking about the price of my earphones , I live in India so the currency in Rupees (INR) and 100 INR = 1.36 USD 😂

[@madlena2005]

I bought Max at first. It was very heavy and my husband heart all, what I was listening. I gave it back to the shop. Then I found Sony xm4 and bought it. My family says they are too loud by calling. But I like this device. (Please sorry for my English)

[@robertphillips4155]

I love Apple products and have invested deeply into the Apple eco system but AirPods Max are not the ones for me. Too little for too much.

[@JaredxHo]

Same thoughts as well, I eventually went ahead with the more budget-friendly option - XM4. Both headphones, IMO, have similar audio quality and comfort levels, so to me, AirPods Max doesn't quite justify the price disparity over WH4. But I do have to admit thou, as a both MacBook and iPhone user, I have the temptation to get the AirPods Pro due to the seamless audio switching that the Apple ecosystem offers. Should I?

[@officialjeremiahrussell]

Thinking the same thing at the moment

[@MishalShayk]

Get the AirPods

[@adamcai1102]

I have an iPhone and a Mac and I've bought both wh1000xm4 and airpods pro lol

[@MishalShayk]

@@adamcai1102 AirPods ftw

[@Dr.RivkaEdery]

Same question here.

[@pramodnayak5444]

I do like your reviews. Almost everything is to the to the point and not very long. Keep making such videos. Wish you great success in future 😊

[@shadowios7033]

Agreed! I love my AirPods Max, but for most people, I think they should get the XM4’s. Considering I always use my iPad for school, work, and leisure, it’s well worth it. Also, the price; it may be too expensive for some. *By the way, they go into LPM 5 minutes after being off your head*

[@MarkSpurrell]

They do go into a low power mode, but it's not low enough. They will still drain significantly if not placed in the smart case.

[@shadowios7033]

@@MarkSpurrell I’ve tested it, and over the course of a 7-9 hour night, I’ve lose 4%. Also, I prefer it, let me explain why. Since it only goes into LPM and there is no way to turn them off, this allows the user to track the device within a 72 time frame whilst *not* being “on”. This feature is not available on any other over the ear headset on the market (to my knowledge). This also means *nobody* can turn them off, to prevent you from tracking them. I know what you’re thinking, “well, they have a Bluetooth range, don’t they?” Yes, they do. However, we all know Apple is going to release Bluetooth tiles, and leaks have already suggested they are already manufactured and ready to go, so why aren’t they being released? Well, we also know the “Airtags” have the capability to ping off of other people’s iPhones, so there is a chance they haven’t been perfected yet because Apple is continuing to test this internally. Now, with all that in consideration, since AirPods Max have the H1 chip (and seamless connectivity between devices), they can “passively” connect to devices. This could allow Apple to ping the headset off of other iPhones to allow the user to locate them. And since they can’t be turned off in any way, (even in the case it’s LPM), it would work perfectly. Also, I’ve purchased a third party case that looks (it is larger) exactly like the XM4’s case, that also puts the headphones into LPM (as well as being hardcase). It’s from a company called Geekria off Amazon. I think Apple did this for a reason, I may be wrong, but the potential is definitely there. I think there’s a deeper reason to why they can’t shut off, rather than Apple just being *special*, (although they do tend to do that quite often). Hope this was an intriguing read, Lol.

[@exhibitprivate6731]

@@MarkSpurrell anything to say about Shadow IOS's remark? I think he has the point.

[@bighit20100]

@@shadowios7033 thanks buddy! Will be getting the AirPods Max today, since prices dropped, can pick one up for like 400

[@uditanandsharma2744]

Him: These are 6 characters that I want in a headphone. again him: counting just upto 5

[@BlueblueN]

6. Not costing a kidney

[@ozkolite8946]

Lol

[@colinwilby8803]

Overall a good review, however there should be one other review point at the start .... transportability. This type of headphone with their particular feature set are there to meet the needs of those who want to move around and have music or podcasts on the go. if they do not fulfil that objective well then they are a big fail. With the weight, inability to fold and poor excuse for a case the AirPods do indeed fail in this area. With a “real” price of well over $600 when tax, lead and proper case are factored in these needed to have much better sound quality and transportability to go with the excellent noise cancellation features. I hope Apple learn a lesson from this and bring out a better designed version that are in the $250 to $350 price range including tax, lead and a proper case.

[@saipawa]

lol $250 for the next version...apple never has decreased their prices for the subsequent ever...wish they would do that though

[@colinwilby8803]

Probably not, which is why I rarely buy their overpriced products nowadays. Can usually get better for less.

[@HaydenAndrewScott]

The footprint of the respective head sets in their case is not materially different; transportability is basically the same

[@colinwilby8803]

@@HaydenAndrewScott I disagree, the Airports Max do not fold down fully and are not protected properly it the case. The upper part of the headset which is made of vulnerable mesh is completely exposed. They case has no space for accessories like wires or an airplane adaptor either. The weight is also excessive and this noticeable when in a backpack for instance. You have to face the facts that the design does not suit transportability anywhere near as well as its competition.

[@HaydenAndrewScott]

@@colinwilby8803 Even with my Sonys folded, the footprint of the respective head sets in their case is not materially different. The weight is only 130g different, which is insignificant to the overall weight of my bag. Agree the head band is not protected, but hasn’t shown any vulnerability. I bought the Max because I don’t carry wires. Transportability is fine.

[@hooliganbubsy7298]

One point about transparency modes. Those comparisons weren't fair. The xm4 has ambient mode where it still cancels out noise but tries to let in voices. The apple headphones were just letting everything in.

[@MarkSpurrell]

And regardless of that, the XM4's are still far worse.

[@randywatson341]

I actually don’t understand why anyone cares about transparency mode. Like who wouldn’t want to cancel out background noise when listening to something. Great review. I might still go AirPods bc noise cancelling is everything to me. But that microphone test (which was awesome, thank you) showed me that XM4 is still solid in that category.

[@hooliganbubsy7298]

@@randywatson341 Transparency mode lets more sound in than just turning off the noise cancelling. So basically if you need to hear people talking to you but still want to listen to music, like at work, it's good. To relate that to my original comment, the apple headphones would let in voices plus all the ambient noise like aircons and traffic but the xm4 would block out the aircon and traffic while still letting in the voices.

[@salman05033]

I was very doubtful to choose between, haven’t had bought a new headphone after beats studio 2 since 2017, Mark, your sufficient comparison has made my choice to the AirPods max. Thank you

[@mandhirbhasin2884]

You just earned a sub for keeping everything real in this video 😉

[@The-Cookie]

I had the choice of getting either the xm4’s or the AirPods max and i didn’t know which one to buy but i ended up choosing the xm4’s.After buying them i still didn’t quite know if i made the right choice and after a bit of digging around the internet i ended up here.Tysm for the information! Now i can be at ease knowing i picked the right choice!

[@romanhernandez3587]

i just came to hear that the XM4 are better, ty :)

[@hermanjackson6429]

They're NOT! by any means

[@j.j.1517]

Give this guy a like for keeping it real not just selling hype

[@DatGuyWithDaGlasses]

Something this review I believed didn’t go enough into detail was the build quality issues the Sony XM4’s have, along with its previous model the XM3’s. They all eventually develop creaking issues on both the ear cups and the headband, my model XM4 had this issue after the second day. Just googling this will bring up hundreds of cases of people trying to troubleshoot something that’s just inherently bad design. They sound great (especially when you EQ them to your taste), but +$300 headphones shouldn’t be making so much noise by simply walking. After returning them and using the Bose QC 45 (and actually returning them too, wasn’t fan of the neutral sound), I settled with the AirPods Max and couldn’t be happier. Funny enough I tried a demo pair of XM4’s yesterday at Best Buy to see if maybe I was unlucky that time I bought them, and they creaked way worse then the one I owned 🤷‍♀️. Just my 2 cents.

[@koolkat214]

You sir just made me buy the Max. Was thinking of going for the XM4, but then I read your comment. It seems it is indeed common complaint with many Sony users about the squeak problem. I don’t mind spending a little more if I know that It’ll last more.

[@Maahi381]

I ordered my XM4 a couple of days ago and am currently waiting for the delivery.

[@madruga2112]

I've watched a review where the phones were put into a binaural mic, so you could actually hear the difference between Apple's and Sony's...and the Airpod Max do seem to have a better sound (of course, depends on one's taste) But I would only consider buying it, IF Apple release a new version with a proper case, usb-c and a DAMN power button ffs

[@edd1e.13]

As someone who heavily deliberated on which one to get. Like multiple weeks deliberation, just get the XM4s. For me, the only reason I wanted the maxes is because they were Apple branded. XM4s have better everything. But if you are good with it and want to. Get the maxes.

[@sourishsharma17]

2:20 the time taken to balance that perfectly..... Great Video (as always) :) Headphones were the reason I subbed earlier this year!

[@cheesecheesecheese12345]

Okay, I'm going to give my personal review of the airpod maxes (Yes its long). I've had them since they came out so I have a good idea of the pros and the cons. Here are all my thoughts 1. Obviously the sound quality is awesome. When I first put these headphones on, I was blown away by my audio experience. They sounded incredible in any mode that I put them in. Although there is no apple airpod max equalizer, when watching videos it doesn't really matter and since I use Spotify only for music, there is a built-in one on that platform which is perfect for me. 2. The different modes. The noise cancelation on the Airpod Max is insane. When I put the headphones on, I can barely hear anything. Pair that with any music, and it's almost silent on the outside. The transparent audio is also quite nice as it allows me to tune into my surroundings yet enjoy a high-quality music experience. I also enjoy the spacial audio for how it integrates more of a natural listening feel 3. The Apple features/random tech. The Airpod maxes come with all of the classic Apple things like instant switching between devices, hearing modes that allow for white noise in the background of your music to further reduce background audio, and the simplicity of using the headphones makes these an incredible pair to wear. The battery life of these headphones had also been great for me since I can use them for a long time. The mic isnt insane but also isnt bad by any means and I would consider it to be better than normal headphone mics. 4. The design. Few things I want to say about this, some good and some a bit less positive. First off, the buttons and volume knobs are designed really really well. They feel great and are super easy to use. Secondly, the Airpod max build quality is awesome. They feel super sturdy and are not at all easy to damage. Third, I have mixed thoughts on metal usage. On one hand, it gives a sturdy and premium feeling to the AirPods. On the other hand, they are quite heavy in comparison to other headphones ive worn. Adding onto this, when I first got the maxes they were quite tight for me. I ended up following a reddit guide and stretched them out (Do at your own risk) which made them incredibly comfortable and allowed me to wear them far longer than my AirPods. The only downside to doing this is that it makes them worse for working out in but honestly, they are more built for everyday usage and working rather than working out (hence why I have both Airpod pros and the Airpod Max). Lastly, I love the fact that the earpieces are removable and very easy to clean and/or replace. 5. The case. Now, a lot of people hate on it but honestly ive had no problems with it. Since the airpod are already super durrable, the headset doesnt need as much protection as your average pair of headphones. The case is very light and still protects the most important parts of the headphones while being very easy to fit in a bag where they would most likely be stored anyway. Even so, if you want a more protective case there are tons of them on amazon (I even got one at one point which I never used). So yeah. Overall I have really loved my airpod maxes. Although the price is quite high, I do personally feel like the cost directly correlates to the overall headphone experience. They are super comfy, sound great, and fit perfectly into the apple ecosystem. If you have the money, I would heavily consider buying them for yourself. If not, you can always return them and try either the Sony headphones or maybe Bose ones which i have used and loved the comfort of.

[@LorenzoDelaRama]

XM4 is so good!

[@NatureLover-cc2hf]

His face during the noise cancellation tests, I love it 😂

[@Wellibob68]

Sound is personal indeed. However to my ears the Sonys have better ANC and the EQ on the Sony App is essential for audiophiles. I don't dislike the Apple headphones but the price and the stupid case and the fact you need to put Airpods Max back in the case when done. No sorry that's a epic fail and a deal breaker.

[@babyyoda9943]

Every audiophile says the Sony’s sound horrible. Most have said AirPods max sound wayy better.

[@RiskyRantung]

@@babyyoda9943 really? didnt you watch the video, airpods max only use AAC codec vs LDAC from sony LOL

[@babyyoda9943]

@@RiskyRantung codecs don’t mean anything without proper optimisation. AAC on the AirPods max with Apple Music, tidal, Spotify etc all sound way better than the Sony’s on LDAC, without having the rubbish connectivity problems.

[@erza6969]

true.. 100 %

[@Al13n1nV8D3R]

ISheeps will always be iSheeps. When they claim the Aipod Max has better sound quality than the Sony's. Well i own tens of thousands of dollars in speakers, Dac's, Dap's, amplifier and headphones. And i can tell you without a doubt the Sonys sound better especially if you feed it high quality HD lossless audio like Ldac. Or connect it directly to the headphone with a wire from a Headphone DAC/Amp combo or a DAP like Astell & Kern A&Ultima SP2000. But because I am a audiophile. Both thr Sony XM4 and Apple Aipod Max loses to most high end wired headphones even by ones within their price range. But I personally bought both because i love to test all things audio. But i only returned the Apple's because the Sony's have better noise cancelling. Pretty much only use the Sony's for business travel on airplanes. But would prefer a high end headphone when i want to relax in a quite lounge.

[@ValeraYuvv]

The best review in youtube. Bought Sony xm4. Thanks.

[@ayamaikarim]

Even to this day I can not justify buying Sony's WH1000XM4 for sale $278 on Amazon based on my life style, I use a very comfortable wired $58 headphones with my laptop when is needed. Buying AirPods Max for $550 for myself would be insane, I was even debating buying AirPods Pro $169 on sale.

[@thephilosopher5799]

I think the Sony headphones are worth it and that’s why they are expensive. The AirPods Pro are good for what they are.

[@Youkai_graphics]

Your video quality is on par with MKBHD and Mr whose the boss, keep up the good work.

[@MarkSpurrell]

Thank you!

[@jelloumac]

I have XM4s and they are superb 👏👏

[@peaceandquiet]

I still have the old XM2 and they are doing great lol

[@Icantinkrnlmao]

Just got my Bose QC 35 today :) i am soooo happy

[@PraveenUduweriya]

They suck bro

[@5Moona]

@@PraveenUduweriya shhhhhh

[@5Moona]

@@PraveenUduweriya let him be him and let him be happy mk

[@exhibitprivate6731]

I have both Bose QC 35 and Sony XM4 and I confirm that Sony XM4 is far superior. Sorry to say that you bought the wrong headphones.

[@FPXS24]

Perfect comparison! Thx for that!

[@LaurenSumMusic]

I am looking for new headphones and this is the review I needed. Thank you!

[@zxman1234]

I’m happy with my xm4 and lovin’ it.

[@avigujjar4034]

I appreciate your effort Mark, but its actually not a very accurate test when you try to simulate an airplane cabin in your house as there is a changing pressure rate which has to be adjusted too. So basically the airplane cabin test is the same as the Cafe one, albeit at different frequencies, both there's little to no change in intensity in the sound, which does occur with sounds at different pressures. Now I own the XM4s and am a frequent traveller so the Noise cancellation optimizer found in the app gives the XM4s a clear advantage as they cancel airplane sounds very well. Once again, I'm not chiding you or demeaning you in any way, just giving advice so that this channel gets better. Thanks!

[@NoahBraun21]

appreciate that you didn't beat around the bush on who these are for. they're mad expensive, and simply aren't a good or even reasonable choice for most people. someday maybe!

[@PainInTheAxe00]

Please explain how they aren’t a good or reasonable choice especially if you’re an iPhone user. And also why you would get them “someday maybe” if they aren’t a good or reasonable choice?

[@talialalalala]

Why yes. The XM4s are the right one. *She says as she listens to this on her XM4s*

[@xmateinc]

I use the Sony’s for gaming, and I can hear sounds I never heard with any of the other headphones I’ve ever used. I love the Sony’s.

[@MaxRPMs]

Does the mic work?

[@xmateinc]

@@MaxRPMs it should, its a quality product. I have a stand alone mic that I use.

[@MakenaKai]

Audiophiles: APTXHD/LDAC990 super ultra high end versions do exist: Audeze Mobius $400 and Hifiman Ananda BT $800

[@theearthisbread]

Audeze is trash.

[@inkerino377]

My biggest flex is I have both. Had the Sony for 2 years and now have the Maxs (got them as a gift). Jury’s still out on which I prefer, but so far Sony is winning

[@tyleroc8378]

Just purchased AirPods Max. I love technology and it’s what I invest my money into because I use tech a bunch and I personally can appreciate high sound quality and performance. Honestly I just love having the best of the best so for me, it was worth saving up for.

[@Chris00088]

I’m debating on getting the AirPod Max’s , what do you think? I’m using Bose qc 35’s right now

[@tyleroc8378]

@@Chris00088 I think the qc’s are a really nice pair of headphones no doubt about it. That being said I also believe the AirPods Max are in a league if their own. In almost every way (except for the case which honestly doesn’t bother me that much, and u can get a better one on Amazon). Anyways, I would definitely purchase these if 1) you are in the apple ecosystem already and have an iPhone and 2) If you don’t mind saving up a big chunk of money. I knew these were the best wireless headphones out there and made it my goal to save up and buy them because I love tech and music more than anything. If u don’t mind setting a goal to save up or spending the money u might already have, absolutely go for it, that being said I know $550 is a lot of money for headphones. My in biased opinion? They’re honestly the best I’ve ever listened to in my life. It’s your choice from there, glad to help!

[@Chris00088]

@@tyleroc8378 Thank you so much for replying, I just want them to sound good for that price. I’m a big music head and I was just worried about that 👍🏾 I think I’ve made my decision.

[@wyw201]

How is the Airpods Max in wired mode? Does it need amping in wired?

[@SD-oe6vv]

@@Chris00088 I have upgraded over QC35 to Max, and main purpose is using them for Apple TV+ in night. For movies Audio was damn good but I feel it was over hyped about spatial audio. About Sony? I never take Sony serious in Audio Department, Sony is good at Cameras and TVs but Audio sorry they are no where close. I am coming from Bose, Aiwa, Kenwood and Panasonic Hi-Fi I had back in those days. Ideal Comparison should have been between Bose and AirPods Max. I dont understand why youtuber are comparing it with Sony whose expertise not lies in Audio.

[@k.vn.k]

I prefer the Airpod Pro Max. Sound quality between them are not much different but I really love the transparency mode. Also it looks better. I hate bulging headphones.

[@mark100177]

Thanks for the review. I still think my wh and wf xm3’s are so good. Won’t upgrade to anything until they stop working well. Definitely not the airpods pro max after watching this review.

[@mshmsh813]

I am in love with my Max. Best headphones I had. I really hope KZbinrs compare the Max to B&O or Bowers&Wilkins instead of the Sony or the Bose. The price point is way different with those mainstream headphones than the Max

[@dadqqader]

Problem is B&O and Bose just doesn't compare to apple's quality despite having a high price like apple product. Their product is way too overprices for what you actually gonna get. The only wireless headphone that can truly match Max is still the XM4 and only that. And they both stomp Bose and Beats to the ground easily.

[@oozly9291]

@@dadqqader both are great, I’m probably going to get the xm4s due to better battery life and better portability as well as being able to turn them off lol

[@stevenr5149]

So Apple has created an over-ear premium headphone that sounds as good as the Sony at double the price. That sounds about right.

[@CoFGillesdeRais]

@Oscar Fajardo I mean I bough my XM4’s for 305 (with tax). Apple’s would be around 600 with tax here

[@moviemogul83]

I have both. Much prefer the Max.

[@sarinsatya6082]

Awesome review Mark! I own a pair of xm4 and your explanation is on point

[@robinfaigmane10]

This is the very first video to actually let you hear what you hear from the headphones. Very nice review. I might want to go with the Sony 😍

[@Cave3317]

great video, i make music and am unfortunately entrenched in apple because of logic, Abelton and mainstage. Ive been looking at the XM4’s for about a year and the airpods max about a week. I know your video was pro XM4’s but i am unfortunately (minus the money part) part of that niche group. The reall seller to me is that i can use them as wireless stage monitors for live music because of apples supernaturally low latency with congruent hardware. thanks for this test i appreciate it a lot, big time subbed.

[@EduardoBerth]

By "congruent hardware" you mean MacBooks? I am looking for a pair of MAXs too for video editing and your comment really caught my attention on the latency topic. Thanks!