Apple
AirPods Max
Over-ear · 2020
88
/ 100
From $549
VS
Bose
Bose QC45
Over-ear · 2021
88
/ 100
From $329
Specdex verdict
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, AirPods Max lands at 88 and Bose QC45 at 88. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick AirPods Max if…
- ✓Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
- ✓Premium build
- ✓Active noise cancellation (most models)
Pick Bose QC45 if…
- ✓Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
- ✓Premium build
- ✓Active noise cancellation (most models)
AirPods Max 88
vs 88 Bose QC45
Score breakdown
AirPods Max
88 anc 86
sound 88
comfort 87
battery 82
features 84
Bose QC45
88 anc 86
sound 88
comfort 87
battery 82
features 84
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | AirPods Max | Bose QC45 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-ear | Over-ear |
| Release year | 2020 | 2021 |
AirPods Max
Pros
- +Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
- +Premium build
- +Active noise cancellation (most models)
Cons
- −Battery varies by codec
- −Some are Bluetooth-only
- −Price creep vs previous gen
Bose QC45
Pros
- +Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
- +Premium build
- +Active noise cancellation (most models)
Cons
- −Battery varies by codec
- −Some are Bluetooth-only
- −Price creep vs previous gen
FAQ: AirPods Max vs Bose QC45
Which is better, AirPods Max or Bose QC45? +
Both score 88 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is AirPods Max worth the price? +
At $549, AirPods Max delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in sound.
Is Bose QC45 worth the price? +
At $329, Bose QC45 delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in sound.
Does AirPods Max or Bose QC45 last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.