AirPods Max Black Friday discount sparks debate

Apple's AirPods Max headphones are massively discounted at Amazon right now, down from $549 to $399. This $150 Black Friday saving is one of the best deals we've seen so far on the second generation model, which features USB-C charging and new colours. But it's also sparked an unexpected debate.

X users are currently arguing over the cost and quality of Apple's most expensive headphones, and whether they're even worth the sale price at all. According to some, these things shouldn't even be breaking the $200 barrier. (For more Apple deals, check out our live Apple Black Friday deals page.)

• Save $150 on AirPods Max at Amazon

Sharing a screenshot of the deal, one X user declared, "They aren’t even worth $199 and I’m so serious." Cue passionate arguments over the relative worth of AirPods Max.

Save $150

Apple AirPods Max: was $549 now $399 at Amazon

AirPods Max with USB C deliver high fidelity audio with adaptive noise cancellation and a quality stainless steel frame. Memory foam ear cushions create a secure fit. The USB-C port supports wired listening and convenient charging.

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X user @DylanMcD8 cites "missing features" and "comfort issues" as reasons to skip the AirPods Max, instead recommending "Beats, Sony, Bose, anything else basically." But judging by the comments, this isn't a popular take. "Best pair of headphones if you’re in the Apple ecosystem," one user comments, while another adds, "I own three pair of these and couldn’t disagree more. for me, the value far exceeds the price."

For our money, at that sale price, the AirPods Max are a worthwhile buy. Sure, they're not perfect – we'd like to see more sound customisation and EQ controls (the $150 Sennheiser Momentum 4s are great in this regard). But the noise cancellation and out-of-the-box sound are fantastic, and there's no denying that the design is already iconic.