When iFixIt opened up the AirPods Max and began disassembling the various parts it discovered that they are some of Apple’s most repairable gadgets for several years, and the build quality is, to say the least, solid.
iFixIt describes them as “actually quite serviceable”. In fact, the repair shop gives AirPods Max a rating of 6 out of 10 in repairability, which is considerably better than the regular AirPods and AirPods Pro which received 0 out of 10.
iFixIt found that the ear cushions, drivers, 2.5 mm aux jack, and buttons were all easily accessible, removable and replaceable.
The battery was also accessible, but glued to the circuit board (and in the case of the left ear cup, soldered). This may be a concern – read: AirPods Max users experiencing battery issues.
iFixIt also disassembled some of the competition, namely the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose NC 700’s. Regarding this the site said: “After tearing down some of the competition, we’re more understanding of that $550 price tag. Sony and Bose both charge less, but internally, the AirPods Max’s obsessive craftsmanship makes those other extremely capable devices look like toys by comparison.”
Want to buy a pair? Read: Where to buy Apple AirPods Max.
We have a separate article where we discuss everything you need to know about getting Apple products repaired.