Audeze Maxwell 2
Audeze's ground-up redesign of the Maxwell, unveiled at CES 2026, still built around the largest planar magnetic drivers in any gaming headset but adding SLAM technology for punchier bass and spatial immersion, a wider breathable headband, and an upgraded AI noise-suppression microphone.
We may earn a commission when you buy through our links.
Our Verdict
Audeze's CES 2026 redesign of its flagship, replacing the discontinued original Maxwell. Still built around 90mm planar magnetic drivers—the largest in any gaming headset—now with SLAM technology for punchier bass and spatial immersion, an upgraded AI noise-suppression mic, and a wider, breathable headband for better long-session comfort.
Score Breakdown
Pros & Cons
Pros
- •90mm planar magnetic drivers (largest in gaming)
- •SLAM technology adds heightened spatial immersion and bass punch
- •80-hour battery life
- •Upgraded AI mic with 2x noise-suppression bandwidth
- •Wider, breathable headband improves long-session comfort
Cons
- •Very heavy—inherits the original's substantial build
- •Expensive
- •Requires buying Xbox or PlayStation version separately for console use
Specifications
| Driver Size | 90mm planar magnetic |
| Frequency Response | 10Hz-50kHz |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz + Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Battery | 80 hours |
| Weight | 560g |
| Platform Note | Separate Xbox/PlayStation versions |
Who Is This For?
Best For
- Competitive FPS players
- Audiophile gamers
- Those wanting best positional audio
Not For
- Those sensitive to weight
- Budget gamers
- Console gamers wanting one universal headset
Where to Buy
Appears In
Customer Reviews
Alternatives to Consider
Audeze Maxwell
Audeze
The 90mm planar magnetic drivers—the largest in any gaming headset—provide positional audio accuracy that dynamic drivers simply cannot match. Consistently ranked #1 for audiophile gaming by RTINGS, Tom's Hardware, and SoundGuys.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
SteelSeries
The feature king. The Infinity Power System with hot-swappable dual batteries means literally unlimited playtime—swap the dead battery while the other keeps playing. The only premium gaming headset with true hybrid ANC.
Astro A50 X
Astro
The PLAYSYNC system is an industry-first: connect Xbox, PlayStation, and PC simultaneously via HDMI 2.1 and switch between them with one button press. The microphone is consistently rated 'S tier' for team communication. Best for multi-console households.
Logitech G Pro X 2 LIGHTSPEED
Logitech
The esports benchmark. LIGHTSPEED technology delivers <1ms latency—virtually indistinguishable from wired. The 50mm graphene drivers provide exceptional clarity with punchy, controlled bass at a competitive price point.