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Updated January 10, 2024·
If affordability is your main concern, Apple Earpods are a cost-effective option that provide convenience for everyday use in various environments. However, if you prioritize sound quality and durability, the Audio Technica ATH M40X headphones offer professional-grade audio with a robust build, though they are more costly. The Earpods are lightweight and suitable for calls with their built-in microphone, but for critical listening, studio work, or when you want to block out environmental noise, the over-ear ATH M40X with their better noise isolation and detailed sound reproduction are more suitable. Keep in mind, the Earpods are easier to carry around for casual use, while the ATH M40X are bulkier and therefore might not be the best for on-the-go activities. 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 Earpods
Very good for phone calls
Very good for gaming
Good for podcasts and audiobooks
Advantages of the Audio Technica ATH M40X
Very good for music
Very good for TV and video
Good for air travel
Key differences
Gaming
8.3/10
7.0/10
The Apple Earpods is very good for gaming, while the Audio Technica ATH M40X is good.
Phone Calls
8.0/10
3.3/10
The Apple Earpods is very good for phone calls, while the Audio Technica ATH M40X is poor.
Podcasts and Audiobooks
7.4/10
5.1/10
The Apple Earpods is good for podcasts and audiobooks, while the Audio Technica ATH M40X is poor.
TV and Video
7.4/10
8.7/10
The Audio Technica ATH M40X is very good for TV and video, while the Apple Earpods is good.
Noise Reduction
2.5/10
5.3/10
The Audio Technica ATH M40X and Apple Earpods are both poor for noise reduction, though the Audio Technica ATH M40X is somewhat better.
Cost
$20
$99
$0
$50
$100
$150
$200
The Apple Earpods has a price of $20 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 Earpods has good build quality.
"Apple’s wired buds sound just fine for the price, and their handy inline controls and clear microphone give them an edge on wireless earbuds that are much more expensive. Plus, you never have to worry about running out of battery — or worse, a stray earbud going missing."
"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 Earpods 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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