
Apple
$549

Samsung
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) clearly outperforms the Samsung Galaxy Buds Core in the headphones category, particularly in price, scoring 5.6/10 vs 3.9/10. If you want the better overall performer, Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is the clear pick.
Scores are relative within the headphonescategory. Percentages show each dimension's weight in the overall score. A difference of less than 0.5 points is considered a tie.
✓ Pros
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
| Spec | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)W | Samsung Galaxy Buds Core |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-ear | In-ear (TWS) |
| Driver Type | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Driver Size | 40mm✓ | 6.5mm |
| Frequency Response | — | 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz |
| ANC | true | Active Noise Cancelling |
| Transparency Mode | Yes (Transparency Mode) | Yes |
| EQ App | Apple Settings (Personalized Spatial Audio) | Samsung Galaxy Wearable app |
| Touch Controls | Yes (Digital Crown, button) | Yes |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | — |
| Battery Life | 20hrs✓ | 8hrs |
| Case Battery | — | 20hrs |
| Wireless Charging | — | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC |
| Multipoint | false | — |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX2 |
| Foldable | No | — |
| Weight | 385g | 5.6g✓ |
| Colors | Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, Orange | Black, White, Red |
| Price | 549$ | — |
Buy Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) if…
Buy the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) if you want the best overall value in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
Buy Samsung Galaxy Buds Core if…
The Samsung Galaxy Buds Core is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
Who do you think wins this matchup?
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) clearly outperforms the Samsung Galaxy Buds Core in the headphones category, particularly in price, scoring 5.6/10 vs 3.9/10. If you want the better overall performer, Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is the clear pick.
Yes, Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) scores higher overall (5.1 vs 4.3).
Check the latest prices using the buy links above.
Buy the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) if you want the best overall value in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
The Samsung Galaxy Buds Core is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) lasts longer with 20 hours vs 8 hours for the other.
Samsung Galaxy Buds Core is lighter at 5.6g vs 385g.