Beats 360 Launches at $350, Challenging AirPods Max 2 with Lighter Build and Cross-Platform Support

Key points

• Beats 360 launched on September 22, 2026, for $349.99, with in-store availability starting September 24.
• The headphones weigh 294 grams, significantly lighter than the 386-gram AirPods Max 2, and feature a plastic construction versus aluminum.
• Beats 360 offers 32 hours of battery life with ANC, compared to 20 hours for the AirPods Max 2.
• The device is the first Beats product with IPX4 water and sweat resistance, suitable for workouts.
• Interchangeable cushions are available in Performance Knit and UltraPlush materials, with kits costing $49.99 (introductory price $9.99).
• Beats 360 supports both Apple and Android ecosystems via a custom chip, whereas AirPods Max 2 are limited to Apple devices.

Background

Leaks in August 2026 hinted at the Beats 360’s features, including IPX4 resistance and interchangeable cushions, with a rumored price of $299.99. The official launch price of $350 is higher than the leak but significantly lower than the AirPods Max 2, which has seen price drops to $449 in recent months. The release follows a busy hardware roadmap for Apple, including updates to AirPods and iOS 27.

How outlets are covering it

Engadget highlights the Beats 360’s lighter weight and cross-platform compatibility as key advantages over the AirPods Max 2, noting that while the AirPods offer superior sound clarity and adaptive audio, the Beats 360 is a better value for non-Apple users. TechPowerUp emphasizes the customizable cushions and IPX4 rating as major innovations for the Beats brand, focusing on the product’s versatility for different activities. The Verge praises the sweat resistance and comfort for workouts but criticizes the midrange audio quality and suggests that the ANC is not as strong as competitors like Bose or Sony at the same price point. All sources agree that the Beats 360 is a strong contender for users seeking a balance between performance, customization, and price, but they differ on whether the audio quality justifies the $350 price tag compared to the premium feel of the AirPods Max 2.

Why it matters

The Beats 360 expands Apple’s headphone lineup to include a more affordable, customizable, and cross-platform option, potentially capturing users who are not fully committed to the Apple ecosystem. Its IPX4 rating and interchangeable cushions address specific needs for fitness and personalization, areas where previous Beats models lacked. The price gap between the Beats 360 and AirPods Max 2 may influence consumer choice, especially as Apple continues to push premium features into higher-priced tiers.

What to watch

Consumers can order the Beats 360 starting September 22, with in-store availability beginning September 24. Cushion kits are available immediately, with introductory pricing until the end of October. Future updates may include firmware improvements or additional color options, and the device’s performance will likely be compared to other $350 headphones in upcoming reviews.