Looking for an honest Apple AirPods Active Noise Cancellation vs Technics EAH-AZ80 comparison in 2026? We scored both earbuds on the same six-dimension framework — performance, battery, display, camera, design and value — using identical methodology, so the numbers below are directly comparable. Both products score nearly identically (58/100 vs 61/100) — this is a genuine toss-up that hinges on which specs matter most for your use case. The widest gap is in performance, where the Technics EAH-AZ80 pulls noticeably ahead. On price the Apple AirPods Active Noise Cancellation undercuts the Technics EAH-AZ80 by 232% ($90 vs $299), which materially changes the value calculus for budget-conscious buyers.
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Apple AirPods Active Noise Cancellation and Technics EAH-AZ80 are closely matched earbuds devices with nearly identical overall scores (58 vs 61). The best choice depends on which specific features matter most to you.
Apple
$90
Scores are relative within the earbudscategory. Percentages show each dimension's weight in the overall score. A difference of less than 0.5 points is considered a tie.
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
| Spec | Apple AirPods Active Noise Cancellation | Technics EAH-AZ80 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | In-ear (TWS) | — |
| Driver Type | Dynamic 11mm | — |
| Driver Size | 11mm✓ | 10mm |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz | — |
| ANC | Active Noise Cancelling (-36dB) | true |
| Transparency Mode | Yes (Transparency mode) | true |
| Spatial Audio | Yes (Dolby Atmos) | true |
| EQ App | AirPods app | — |
| Touch Controls | Yes | — |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Siri, Google |
| Battery Life | 5hrs | 8hrs✓ |
| Case Battery | 24hrs | — |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (MagSafe) | true |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 | 5.3 |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | AAC, SBC, aptX |
| Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | true |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Fit | In-ear | — |
| Weight | 5.3g✓ | 7g |
| Colors | White | Black, Silver |
| Price | 90$✓ | 299$ |
Buy Apple AirPods Active Noise Cancellation if…
Choose the Apple AirPods Active Noise Cancellation if budget is your top priority — it offers competitive specs at a lower price point.
Buy Technics EAH-AZ80 if…
The Technics EAH-AZ80 is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
Apple AirPods Active Noise Cancellation and Technics EAH-AZ80 are closely matched earbuds devices with nearly identical overall scores (58 vs 61). The best choice depends on which specific features matter most to you.
Both products score similarly — it depends on your priorities.
Apple AirPods Active Noise Cancellation is cheaper at $90 vs $299 for the Technics EAH-AZ80.
Choose the Apple AirPods Active Noise Cancellation if budget is your top priority — it offers competitive specs at a lower price point.
The Technics EAH-AZ80 is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
Technics EAH-AZ80 lasts longer with 8 hours vs 5 hours for the other.
Reviewed by VersusMatrix Editorial Team
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Methodology: AI-powered analysis of technical specifications from manufacturer data. Scores are calculated by comparing products across multiple dimensions and normalized relative to the full category database. Our editorial process is independent and not influenced by affiliate partnerships.