Author
Getting Started
In this blog, I do a head-to-head with two popular headphones that, in my opinion, are one of the best headphones for traveling. Because they offer the perfect mix of sound quality, comfort, and smart features that really matter when you’re on the go.
The Apple Airpods Max vs. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2. Both are over-ear headphones and comfortable for traveling. Because picking the right headphones for travel really matters. For those who fly often or spend time commuting. Travel can be noisy and distracting, so good headphones help you enjoy the trip more. When choosing a pair, think about comfort, sound quality, and how easy they are to carry-on. These things make a big difference, especially on longer journeys.
Comfort is key when you’re traveling, especially since you might wear your headphones for hours. If they don’t fit well or feel uncomfortable, it can quickly ruin the experience. And of course, great sound matters too. Clear, rich audio makes music, podcasts, or audiobooks so much more enjoyable and helps block out the noise around you.
Additionally, portability should not be overlooked. When on the move, the last thing travelers want is bulky, unwieldy equipment. Lightweight and compact designs are not just convenient but also essential for easy packing in carry-on luggage or backpacks. Wireless headphones have become increasingly popular among travelers, offering the freedom of movement without the hassle of tangled wires. This technology has fostered an extensive market, resulting in a variety of options tailored to different preferences and budgets.
This blog post will delve into a detailed comparison between two leading models in the wireless headphones arena: Apple’s AirPods Max and the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2. Both of these models have garnered attention for their unique features designed to meet the needs of travelers. By examining their strengths and weaknesses in comfort, sound quality, and portability, this piece aims to help prospective buyers make an informed choice that suits their travel lifestyle.
Apple AirPods Max vs. Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
If you’re packing for a long flight or planning your next summer adventure, a good pair of headphones can make all the difference. If you like just like me to blocking out engine noise, diving into your favorite playlist, or catching up on your favorite podcasts, comfort and sound really matters
Two of the most talked-about premium headphones are the Apple AirPods Max and the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e. Both are top-tier choices, but they suit different types of travelers.
- ULTIMATE OVER-EAR LISTENING EXPERIENCE — Apple-designed dynamic driver provides high-fidelity audio. Computational audio…
- FIVE FRESH COLORS — AirPods Max come in five fresh colors: Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, and Orange. A color-matche…
- FOCUS ON WHAT’S PLAYING — Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation removes up to 2x more background noise, so you can immerse…
- PREMIUM “EVOLVED” HEADPHONES – Hear the music exactly as the artist intended with the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e Over-Ear …
- COMFORTABLE DESIGN & PERFECT FIT – Experience comfort and elegance with these wireless Bluetooth headphones’ premium des…
- NOISE-FREE, CLEAR CONVERSATIONS – Immerse yourself in dynamic music and enjoy crystal-clear call quality. These headphon…
Comparion Table Apple AirPods Max & Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e
Trying to decide between the Apple AirPods Max and the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e? I get you. Becasue both are premium headphones with amazing sound, but they each have their own strengths. To make the choice a little easier, I’ve put together a clear side-by-side comparison. Whether you’re after the sleek Apple experience or the rich, warm sound of B&W, this table will help you figure out which one fits your style best.
| Feature | Apple AirPods Max | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Comfort | Premium look, heavier build, mesh headband | Lightweight, soft memory foam earcups |
| Sound Quality | Clear, immersive, with spatial audio | Rich, warm, more natural sound |
| Noise Cancelling | Excellent ANC, great for planes and crowds | Very good ANC, just slightly behind Apple |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Device Compatibility | Only with Apple ecosystem (iPhone, Mac, iPad) | Works with all devices (Apple + Android) |
| Travel Factor | Stylish, high-end, slightly bulky for carry-on | Compact, lightweight, great for long trips |
| Price Range | $450,- | $399,- |
Pros & Cons both Headphones
Pros
| Apple AirPods Max | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e |
|---|---|
| Best-in-class noise cancelling | Longer battery life (up to 30 hours) |
| Seamless pairing with Apple devices | Lightweight and travel-friendly |
| Spatial audio for immersive listening | Rich, natural and detailed sound |
| Premium build and luxurious materials | Works with Apple and Android devices |
| Great for movies on iPad or MacBook | More affordable than AirPods Max |
Cons
| Apple AirPods Max | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e |
|---|---|
| Heavier than most headphones | Noise cancelling slightly less powerful |
| Expensive (high-end price point) | No spatial audio support |
| Works only with Apple devices | No Apple-exclusive features |
| Doesn’t fold for compact storage | Slightly bulkier ear-cups and no foldable design. |
Unique color options for Apple AirPods Max
One thing that makes the Apple AirPods Max stand out, besides the sound, is their unique color options. From sleek and classic to bold and fun, there’s a shade for every style. Here’s a quick look at the colors available on the latest models:
Unique color options for Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e doesn’t just sound premium. They have great colour options too. With a selection of elegant and modern color options, these headphones bring style to your setup. Here are the colors you can choose from:
How they sounds and what it can do.
When it comes to audio performance, both the AirPods Max and Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 stand out with remarkable sound quality and a variety of features tailored for the discerning traveler. Each headphone offers distinct characteristics that enhance the listening experience and cater to different preferences.
The AirPods Max delivers an impressive sound stage characterized by its balanced audio profile. It excels in providing clear mids and highs, ensuring vocals remain crisp and articulate. The bass response is powerful yet controlled, allowing for a rich listening experience without overwhelming other frequencies. The introduction of spatial audio capabilities enhances this further, providing an immersive experience that makes users feel as though they are in a concert hall or theater. Additionally, the AirPods Max employs effective Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology that intelligently adapts to the environment, allowing users to focus solely on their music, podcasts, or audiobooks.
On the other hand, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 also impresses with its sound quality, characterized by its dynamic sound signature and detailed audio reproduction. It features high-fidelity sound that resonates particularly well with bass-heavy genres, delivering depth and richness that appeals to bass enthusiasts.
The PX7 S2 also has great noise cancelling. It blocks out background sounds really well, so you can enjoy your music in peace. You can also switch to a mode that lets in outside noise, which is perfect for staying aware while traveling.
In terms of advanced audio technologies, both headphones bring unique offerings to the table, catering to various audio preferences and situations. The combination of exceptional sound quality, prominent bass response, and sophisticated noise cancellation features make both the AirPods Max and Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 top contenders for anyone seeking superior audio performance while traveling.
Battery life & connection: What travelers should know
When you’re traveling, battery life and connection really matter to my opinion. Both the AirPods Max and the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 have solid performance, but they’re a bit different. The AirPods Max give you up to 20 hours of listening time with noise cancelling on—which is perfect for long flights or road trips. And if you forget to charge them? No worries. Just 5 minutes of charging gives you about 1.5 hours of playback. Super handy when you’re rushing out the door.
In contrast, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 excels with a battery life of up to 30 hours on a single charge, even while utilizing Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). This extended duration makes the PX7 S2 a reliable companion for travelers who prioritize longevity in battery performance over quick charging features. Additionally, the PX7 S2 supports rapid charging, providing 5 hours of playback after just a 15-minute charge. This is especially advantageous for users in a hurry, ensuring they can enjoy their music without long interruptions.
Regarding connectivity, both models utilize Bluetooth technology, which is essential for wireless convenience. The AirPods Max seamlessly integrates with Apple devices, supporting features such as quick pairing and automatic switching between devices, creating an effortless user experience for those already within the Apple ecosystem. On the other hand, the PX7 S2 utilizes Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring efficient connectivity over a range of devices, including Android and Windows platforms. Its multipoint connection feature allows users to simultaneously connect to two devices, enabling smooth transitions when switching between a laptop and a smartphone.
These connectivity options, alongside their respective battery lives, solidify the AirPods Max and Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 as formidable choices for travelers seeking both comfort and functionality in their headphones.
Final Thoughts
Both the Apple AirPods Max and the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e are excellent choices for travelers who want top-tier sound and comfort on the go. The PX7 S2e is a fantastic all-rounder—lightweight, long battery life, and great sound quality across all devices. But if I had to choose between these two, my personal favorite is by far the Apple AirPods Max. The super well integrated connection with my Apple devices (iPhone, MacBook and Watch), the incredible noise cancelling, and that immersive spatial audio make them my go-to choice on every trip. For me, they’re in the top 10 of best travel headphone in 2025. Stylish, smart, and made for movement.
If you like this article feel free to comment on it. Want to read more? You might also like this one about Apple’s yearly WWDC and what it means for you as a traveler.
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly believe in or use myself.
