Question 1

Many reviews mention the Maxwell is heavy. How uncomfortable is it for long gaming sessions?

Accepted Answer

The Maxwell is built with a premium metal construction, which does add weight compared to plastic headsets. While most users adapt to it and find the plush ear pads distribute the weight well, those sensitive to heavier headphones or who wear glasses may feel pressure during *very* long sessions (4+ hours). The trade-off is exceptional durability. For all-day, everyday comfort, a lighter headset might be preferable, but for immersive gaming bursts, the audio quality is generally worth it.

Question 2

I use a PS5 and a PC. Does it switch between them easily?

Accepted Answer

Yes, seamless multi-platform use is a major strength. It comes with both a USB-C dongle (for PlayStation, PC, Mac, Switch dock) and Bluetooth. You can have the dongle connected to your PS5 and Bluetooth paired to your phone simultaneously. Switching audio sources is quick and reliable, making it a favorite for gamers who use multiple devices.

Question 3

Is the software or firmware difficult to deal with? I just want to plug and play.

Accepted Answer

Out of the box, the headset works great. However, to access advanced features like custom EQs, sidetone (mic monitoring) adjustment, and firmware updates, you'll need the Audeze HQ app. Some users on forums like Reddit have noted early app versions were buggy, but updates have improved stability. We recommend a one-time firmware update via the app to ensure you have the latest features and fixes, after which you can largely forget about it.

Question 4

How does the planar magnetic sound compare for gaming, and is the mic good for voice chat?

Accepted Answer

Planar magnetic drivers offer superior detail and clarity, especially in the low end, without distortion. In games, this translates to hearing precise directional cues like footsteps and environmental details you might miss with other headsets. The detachable boom mic is consistently praised as one of the best—it has excellent noise cancellation, so your teammates will hear you clearly, not your keyboard.

Question 5

The battery life sounds too good to be true. Is it really 80+ hours?

Accepted Answer

In real-world use, the battery life often meets or even exceeds the 80-hour claim, depending on volume and usage of features like sidetone. It's a standout feature that users across YouTube and Reddit confirm. You can easily go a week or more of heavy gaming without needing to charge, which is a significant advantage over headsets requiring daily or every-other-day charges.

Audeze Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset for PlayStation, Mac, PC, and Switch

Before you decide

Your concerns

Understand the analysis