The Audeze Maxwell 2 is a refinement of the company’s premium wireless gaming headset, not a complete reinvention. Launched in January 2026, it keeps the original’s 90mm planar-magnetic drivers, low-latency USB-C wireless, wired connections and exceptionally long battery life, while adding a revised acoustic system, redesigned fit, newer Bluetooth support, microphone processing and a new app.
The biggest qualification is comfort: Audeze has redesigned the headband and ear pads, but the Maxwell 2 still weighs 560g. Independent reviews agree that it sounds excellent, yet they differ on whether the fit improvements overcome that weight during long sessions.
What is the Audeze Maxwell 2?
The Maxwell 2 is Audeze’s second-generation wireless gaming headset for PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Mac and mobile devices. It launched in January 2026 at reported U.S. prices of $329 for the PlayStation version and $349 for Xbox. Regional pricing, taxes and availability can differ, so check the current Audeze product page before buying.
The regular Maxwell 2 does not include active noise cancellation. Maxwell 2 ANC is a separate model announced later in 2026, with different hardware, firmware, dongles, pricing and battery claims.
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- 80 hours of battery life*
- NEW: Patent-pending SLAM technology (like from our LCD-S20 and CRBN2 models), which produces heightened spatial immersion and precision along with punchier bass response.
- Bluetooth 5.3 technology including LE Audio and LDAC for versatile connectivity with mobile devices.
- AuraCast support for multi-point connection with compatible devices
- Simultaneous USB Audio (wired) and Bluetooth AND Simultaneous AUX Audio (wired) and Bluetooth
What changed from the original Maxwell?
| Area | Maxwell 2 | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Drivers | 90mm planar-magnetic | The core sound technology remains familiar. |
| Acoustics | Fluxor, Fazor, Uniforce and SLAM technologies | Audeze says the revised system improves bass impact, separation and spatial precision. |
| Comfort | Wider ventilated headband and redesigned ear pads | More internal ear-cup space, but the headset remains very heavy. |
| Weight | 560g | A major trade-off compared with mainstream wireless gaming headsets. |
| Wireless | USB-C low-latency dongle, up to 24-bit/96kHz | Designed for responsive gaming; the specification is not a guarantee that games provide audible 96kHz content. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint, LE Audio, LC3, LC3plus, LDAC, AAC and SBC | More flexible music and mobile connectivity, subject to host-device support. |
| Battery | More than 80 hours at Audeze’s stated 80dBA test condition | Actual life varies with volume, microphone use and processing. |
| Microphone | Detachable hypercardioid boom, beamforming and noise-reduction processing | Potentially clearer chat, but “AI” processing is not the same as listener ANC. |
| Software | New Audeze app for Windows, macOS, Android and iOS | Firmware updates still require the desktop app. |
| Customization | Magnetic side plates compatible with ReSkin | Primarily cosmetic personalization. |
The original Maxwell already offered planar drivers, low-latency wireless and unusually long battery life. The Maxwell 2 is therefore best understood as a redesign and refinement rather than a new product category.
Sound quality and SLAM
Audeze describes SLAM as part of the Maxwell 2’s acoustic and low-frequency system. The company claims punchier, more controlled bass, clearer separation from the midrange and more precise positional information. Those are manufacturer claims, not standardized measurements.
Independent coverage broadly praises the Maxwell 2’s sound for games, films and music. RTINGS’ testing provides the most measurement-oriented reference, while TechRadar and PC Gamer describe the upgrade over the original as meaningful but not revolutionary.
Rank #2
- 80 hours of battery life*
- NEW: Patent-pending SLAM technology (like from our LCD-S20 and CRBN2 models), which produces heightened spatial immersion and precision along with punchier bass response.
- Bluetooth 5.3 technology including LE Audio and LDAC for versatile connectivity with mobile devices.
- AuraCast support for multi-point connection with compatible devices (currently Andriod)
- Simultaneous USB Audio (wired) and Bluetooth AND Simultaneous AUX Audio (wired) and Bluetooth
In practical terms, the Maxwell 2 is aimed at players who want weighty bass without losing detail, accurate imaging for competitive games and a presentation that also works well for music. EQ can change the result substantially, so the stock tuning should not be treated as the headset’s only possible sound.
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Audeze lists a 10Hz–50kHz frequency response and less than 0.1% THD at 100dB. These are manufacturer specifications measured under stated conditions, not guarantees of audible superiority.
Is comfort actually better?
Audeze redesigned the parts most likely to attract comfort complaints: the Maxwell 2 has a wider ventilated strap, redesigned pads and more internal ear-cup space. Some reviewers found the new fit more comfortable for roughly two to three hours, while PC Gamer considered the improvement limited and the extra mass a possible long-session disadvantage. Windows Central reported a more favorable first impression.
Rank #3
- Now includes the best (ANC) noise cancellation headset in gaming. This is based on Audeze lab testing against key noise cancellation gaming headset competitors [June 2026]. Performance may vary based on fit, firmware, environment, and noise source.
- Adds head-tracking for those apps that have spatial audio capabilities for professional use, such as the Dolby Atmos Pro Renderer.
- Special attention to the sound quality being unchanged when switching ANC on or off. We think this is an industry first, and we have test results to show this.
- Auracast enabled (for qualified devices)
The fairest conclusion is that Audeze improved the fit, but did not eliminate the fundamental weight problem. Comfort will depend on head shape, strap pressure, ear size, glasses, heat buildup and tolerance for a 560g headset. If low weight is your priority, the Maxwell 2 is a poor fit regardless of how well the new pads suit you.
Microphone and chat quality
The detachable boom microphone uses a hypercardioid design, beamforming and Audeze’s FILTER/AI and physical noise-reduction processing. These features are intended to reduce keyboard, fan and room noise, but noise suppression can also make speech less natural if used aggressively.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesThe boom should be preferred for gaming and streaming. The internal microphone is useful when portability matters, but buyers who need broadcast-quality voice should still consider a dedicated USB microphone. Microphone quality should be judged separately from the Maxwell 2’s excellent headphone reproduction; a great-sounding headset is not automatically a studio microphone.
Rank #4
- AUDEZE MAXWELL WIRELESS GAMING HEADSET FOR XBOX, PC, MAC, MOBILE 80AND HR BATTERY
Choose the correct console version
PlayStation version
- Designed for PlayStation, PC, Mac and mobile.
- Supports PlayStation Tempest 3D audio.
- Does not include the Xbox Dolby Atmos license.
Xbox version
- Designed for Xbox, PC, Mac and mobile.
- Includes the relevant Dolby Atmos license for Xbox and Windows, according to Audeze’s compatibility information.
- Normally costs more than the PlayStation edition.
Both versions can work on PC, but their console-oriented dongles and licensing are not interchangeable in the way many buyers assume. Buy the edition for your primary console: Xbox owners should choose Xbox, while PS5 owners should choose PlayStation.
Connections and compatibility
- USB-C wireless dongle: the main low-latency gaming connection.
- USB-C wired: digital audio and game/chat functionality.
- 3.5mm TRRS: useful with controllers, handhelds and older devices.
- Bluetooth 5.3: supports the listed codecs and multipoint, subject to the capabilities of the connected device.
USB-C devices can use the dongle or a wired USB-C connection. Lightning devices may require an MFi-certified adapter. Audeze’s current product information also lists Switch 2 support; verify the exact supported connection and device configuration before purchase.
Battery life and charging
Audeze claims more than 80 hours of wireless playback at 80dBA, with a claimed 25% charge in 20 minutes and a full charge in two hours. Volume, Bluetooth versus dongle use, microphone activity, EQ and processing can change real-world results.
Best Value
- COMPATIBLE WITH LEADING GAMING & AUDIO HEADSETS - The AHG Accessory House Global SPARTAN XL carrying case is Designed specifically for compatibility with the Audeze Maxwell 2, Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC MM-100 LCD-S20, Razer Kraken V4 Wireless, Kraken V3 Pro, Kraken V3 Hypersense, Kraken Pro V2, Corsair Virtuoso Max & Void 2 and many more similar sized headsets.
- SPARTAN GRADE PROTECTION - Built for maximum durability using reinforced EVA construction with a rigid structural shell capable of supporting up to 200 lbs. Lined with premium and durable 1800D Twill Nylon, the DN8PRO-XL resists impacts, scratches, splashes and everyday wear to help protect your investment wherever you go. It is a precision-fit carrying case that keeps your premium headphones secure during travel or storage.
- PREMIUM MATERIALS INSIDE & OUT - A soft velvet interior cushions your headphones to help prevent scratches, while a secure internal retention strap minimizes movement during transport. Heavy-duty metal zipper pulls, water-resistant zipper lining and a reinforced carry handle provide lasting durability and premium everyday usability.
- ROOM FOR HEADPHONES & ACCESSORIES - Store your headset, charging cable, microphone, dongle and accessories in one organized place. Includes a carabiner, Velcro cable tie, and drawstring accessory pouch for convenient storage and travel. Depending on your headset model, simply adjust the headband arms for the perfect fit.
- THE PERFECT TRAVEL CASE - Whether you're commuting, flying, gaming at a friend's house, heading to the studio or storing your headset safely at home, the AHG Accessory House Global SPARTAN XL carrying case keeps everything protected, organized and ready to go. Compatible with the Audeze Maxwell 2, Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC MM-100 LCD-S20, Razer Kraken V4 Wireless, Kraken V3 Pro, Kraken V3 Hypersense, Kraken Pro V2, Corsair Virtuoso Max & Void 2 and many more similar sized headsets. Give your premium headphones the protection they deserve.
Do not apply that figure to Maxwell 2 ANC. Audeze lists separate ANC-model figures of 40 hours with ANC on and 35 hours with ANC off under its stated continuous-playback conditions. The ANC model also costs more and adds noise cancellation and transparency mode.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.App and firmware setup
The Audeze app is available for Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, but firmware updates require Windows or macOS. Both the headset and its dongle must be updated and kept on compatible firmware.
- Install the current Audeze app on Windows or macOS.
- Connect the Maxwell 2 dongle.
- Open Product Settings, choose Firmware Update and update the dongle.
- Connect the headset by USB and update the headset.
- Confirm that the headset and dongle versions match.
Maxwell 1 and Maxwell 2 dongles are not cross-compatible, and Maxwell 2 and Maxwell 2 ANC use different hardware and firmware. Do not install software intended for another model; Audeze warns that unsupported updates can cause irreversible damage not covered by warranty. See the official update instructions.
What is in the box?
- Maxwell 2 headset
- Detachable boom microphone with pop filter
- USB-C low-latency wireless dongle
- USB-C-to-USB-C cable
- USB-C-to-USB-A adapter cable
- 3.5mm TRRS analog cable
Maxwell 2 versus Maxwell 2 ANC
| Maxwell 2 | Maxwell 2 ANC | |
|---|---|---|
| Noise control | No listener ANC; microphone noise processing is separate | Active noise cancellation and transparency mode |
| Launch pricing reported | $329 PlayStation; $349 Xbox | $429 PlayStation; $449 Xbox |
| Battery claim | More than 80 hours at 80dBA | 40 hours ANC on; 35 hours ANC off, according to Audeze’s listed conditions |
| Hardware | Own dongle and firmware | Separate dongle and firmware |
Choose ANC only if you genuinely need noise reduction for a shared room, travel or other noisy environment. It is not a software mode that can be added to the regular Maxwell 2.
Who should buy the Maxwell 2?
Buy it if you prioritize sound quality, play across console and PC, listen to music on the same headset, want a wired fallback and value very long battery life. It is especially compelling for Xbox buyers who want the included Dolby Atmos license.
Think twice if you are sensitive to weight, need a compact travel headset, want strong listener ANC, or already own a Maxwell that fits comfortably and meets your needs. Original Maxwell owners gain the most if they want the revised pads and strap, newer Bluetooth features, updated app, improved bass presentation or microphone processing. The upgrade is less convincing if they expect a night-and-day sound change or a lighter headset.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
