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Updated January 10, 2024·
The Apple AirPods (2nd generation) offer the convenience of wireless connectivity, with a compact, stem-design that's highly portable, and they include features optimized for Apple devices. They are suitable for casual listening, taking calls, and are sweatproof, making them a good option for light exercise. However, they have lower noise isolation and sound quality compared to over-ear headphones.
In contrast, the Audio Technica ATH-M40X boasts superior overall sound quality, a more expansive soundstage, and better noise isolation, thanks to its over-ear, closed-back design. These headphones have a detachable cable and fold for portability, but they lack wireless capabilities and built-in controls. They are particularly good for critical listening, TV and video, and gaming, due to their higher sound quality and lower latency. However, they are not as convenient for travel and exercise due to their larger size and the need for a wired connection.
Therefore, if portability, wireless convenience, and being optimized for use with Apple products are your priorities, the AirPods might be the better choice. However, if you prefer sound quality and a more immersive audio experience for home listening, the ATH-M40X would be the more suitable option. Give Feedback
this description is based on the product variant with some specs and product variant with some specs. At the time of writing, the variant with some specs cost some dollars and the variant with some specs cost some dollars.
Advantages of the Apple Airpods (2nd generation)
Very good for podcasts and audiobooks
Advantages of the Audio Technica ATH M40X
Very good for music
Good for gaming
Very good for TV and video
Key differences
Music
5.8/10
8.1/10
The Audio Technica ATH M40X is very good for music, while the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is poor.
Gaming
4.8/10
7.0/10
The Audio Technica ATH M40X is good for gaming, while the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is poor.
Phone Calls
6.9/10
3.3/10
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is only fair for phone calls, while the Audio Technica ATH M40X is poor.
Podcasts and Audiobooks
8.1/10
5.1/10
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is very good for podcasts and audiobooks, while the Audio Technica ATH M40X is poor.
TV and Video
5.4/10
8.7/10
The Audio Technica ATH M40X is very good for TV and video, while the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is poor.
Noise Reduction
2.5/10
5.3/10
The Audio Technica ATH M40X and Apple Airpods (2nd generation) are both poor for noise reduction, though the Audio Technica ATH M40X is somewhat better.
Battery
4.0 Hours
N/A
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) has 4 hours of battery life. The Audio Technica ATH M40X does not have a battery.
Cost
$89
$99
$40
$60
$80
$100
$120
$140
$160
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) has a price of $89 and the Audio Technica ATH M40X costs $99.
Build Quality
7.6/10
8.2/10
The Audio Technica ATH M40X has very good build quality, while the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) has good build quality.
"If you were to pick one headset to fill all of your needs, the ATH-M40x is a great buy with its sub-$100 price tag, pleasant sound quality, and accessories. Whether you need to use it for live monitoring, a midnight editing session, or to underscore a campus walk, the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is a great companion."
Get a great deal on the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) or the Audio Technica ATH M40X
About Apple
Apple Inc. is an American technology company, founded in 1976, known for its wide range of premium products, including smartphones, computers, and audio solutions. Apple offers the very popular personal audio line AirPods, highly regarded for their wireless, smart capabilities and their seamless integration with the iPhone, iPad and Mac devices. They provide a high-quality sound, comfort and lifestyle features perfect for all users invested in their ecosystem.
About Audio Technica
Audio Technica is a 60-year-old, Japan-based, professional audio equipment manufacturer. They started off making phonograph cartridges and have expanded their scope of products ever since to include extremely popular models of microphones and headphones. They have been the official audio equipment supplier of several editions of the Summer and Winter Olympics and every edition of the Grammy Awards since 1998.
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This information was produced and vetted by the PerfectRec earbuds & headphones team. We are a product research and recommendation organization that meticulously reviews and evaluates the latest earbuds or headphones information and makes it digestible for you.
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About the Earbuds or Headphones team
Joe Golden, Ph.D
CEO and Earbuds and Headphones Editor
Joe is an entrepreneur and lifelong electronics enthusiast with a Ph.D in Economics from the University of Michigan.
Jason Lew
Staff Expert & Software Engineer
Jason is a staff expert and software engineer that has been making laptop recommendations for 7 years and moderates one of the largest laptop subreddits.
Chandradeep Chowdhury
Staff Expert & Software Engineer
Chandradeep is a staff expert and software engineer and expert in televisions and monitors. He’s been making monitor recommendations for ten years.
Luis Torres
Earbuds and Headphones Expert
Luis is a Mexico-based headphones expert. He’s been making headphone recommendations for five years and has close to 100 pairs in his personal collection.