If you’re spending over $500 on headphones, I think you should expect more than “good sound.” In this video I compare three of the most premium options for 2025: the Bowers & Wilkins PX8, Apple AirPods Max, and Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95. I break it down the way I’d want it explained before buying—build quality and design first, then sound, ANC and features, and finally the cases (because yes, that matters at this price). On design, the PX8 is basically “all leather, all class”—minimalist, striking, and in my opinion the best-looking on-head. AirPods Max are visually very Apple, but the aluminum adds weight, the mesh cushions can get gross when you sweat, and the metal can feel freezing outside. The H95 sits right up there in premium feel, is more forgiving for long sessions, folds for travel, and those ear-cup dials (one for ANC, one for volume) are just perfect. Sound-wise, PX8 is the most audiophile and analytical, AirPods Max are balanced with the most cinematic Spatial Audio, and H95 is warm, laidback, and luxurious for long listening. For ANC, AirPods Max win raw strength, PX8 stays natural and purist, and H95 hits the sweet spot with five adjustable levels and adaptive ANC—plus the best case I’ve ever seen.