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Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) — H1 · ANC · Spatial Audio · USB-C
Apple

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024)

H1 · ANC · Spatial Audio · USB-C

89
/ 100
From $549
VS
Focal Clear MG wins by 3
Focal Clear MG — Open-back
Focal

Focal Clear MG

Open-back

92
/ 100
From $1,499
Specdex verdict

Focal Clear MG takes it — here’s why.

In our weighted Specdex score, Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) lands at 89 and Focal Clear MG at 92. That puts Focal Clear MG ahead by 3 points — a narrow margin driven mostly by its strengths in the categories below.

Pick Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) if…

  • ✓Best-in-class build quality
  • ✓Apple ecosystem integration
  • ✓USB-C with lossless support (Vision Pro)

Pick Focal Clear MG if…

  • ✓Reference-level detail
  • ✓Well-regarded in audiophile community
  • ✓Long-term ownership appeal
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Winner by scenario

Derived from the sub-score breakdown · not a separate test

Sound quality

Tie

Tuning, detail, and staging

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Noise cancelling

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024)

ANC strength for commute and travel

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) leads on anc (92 vs 0).

Comfort

Focal Clear MG

Long-session wearability

Focal Clear MG leads on comfort (88 vs 80).

Value for money

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024)

Specdex score per dollar at MSRP

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) more score per dollar ($549 vs $1,499).

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) 89
vs
92 Focal Clear MG

Score breakdown

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024)
89
anc 92
sound 92
comfort 80
battery 84
features 90
Focal Clear MG
92
anc 0
sound 92
comfort 88
battery 100
features 50

Specs side-by-side

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) versus Focal Clear MG — full spec comparison
Spec Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) Focal Clear MG
Driver
40 mm dynamic
—
ANC
Hybrid 9-mic
—
Bluetooth
5.0
—
Codecs
AAC + Lossless USB-C
—
Battery
20 hr (with ANC)
—
Charging
USB-C
—
Weight
384 g
—
Type
—
Open-back

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024)

Pros
  • +Best-in-class build quality
  • +Apple ecosystem integration
  • +USB-C with lossless support (Vision Pro)
Cons
  • −No new chip vs original
  • −Heavy at 384g
  • −No fold-flat design

Focal Clear MG

Pros
  • +Reference-level detail
  • +Well-regarded in audiophile community
  • +Long-term ownership appeal
Cons
  • −Requires amplifier (most)
  • −No active noise cancellation
  • −Impractical for commuting

FAQ: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) vs Focal Clear MG

Which is better, Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) or Focal Clear MG? +

Focal Clear MG scores 92 on our weighted rubric — ahead by 3. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.

Is Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) worth the price? +

At $549, Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) delivers a Specdex score of 89 — strongest in anc.

Is Focal Clear MG worth the price? +

At $1,499, Focal Clear MG delivers a Specdex score of 92 — strongest in battery.

Does Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) or Focal Clear MG 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.

Which is better for noise cancelling, Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) or Focal Clear MG? +

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) — leads on anc (92 vs 0). ANC strength for commute and travel.

Which is better for comfort, Apple AirPods Max (USB-C, 2024) or Focal Clear MG? +

Focal Clear MG — leads on comfort (88 vs 80). Long-session wearability.