Here's how you can get the Sky Blue AirPods Max Lighting headphones for $100 off

Jason Hiner/ZDNET

After their launch, Apple's over-ear AirPods Max became an aesthetic staple all over the web. Forget Beats, as all your favorite celebrities and influencers took up the AirPods Max as their audio staple. Plus, many retailers offer cute covers to customize your AirPods Max so you can make them your own. 

Also: Take these Nothing earbuds to the gym and thank me later

You too can join the trend, as the Sky Blue AirPods Max lightning version is on sale at Walmart for $100 off, selling for $450. The headphones usually retail for $550, so you're getting an 18% discount. 

ZDNET first reviewed the AirPods Max in 2020, and since then, it's maintained a spot on two of our best lists: the best over-ear headphones and the best AirPods. To us, they're more than just an aesthetic trend, as they create a beautiful listening experience.

Remember that these headphones use the older Lightning adapter -- incompatible with USB-C. 

The headphones come equipped with active noise cancelling, so you can drown out the noise around you and immerse yourself in your favorite tunes. On the flip side, transparency mode allows you to stay aware of your surroundings, like if you're a woman who likes to run at night.

Also: AirPods Max review

The sound quality is also a standout feature. Apple advertises spatial audio, which helps give a more dynamic listening experience similar to visiting a movie theater. Listening to your favorite Boiler Room set will only get more exciting. 

When ZDNET contributor Jason Cipriani tried the headphones after their launch in 2020, the only negative thing he had to say was that the price was a little high and the carrying case needed more work. He even bought the product and planned to return it, but loved it so much he kept it.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max and the newer AirPods Max 2. 

Kerry Wan/ZDNET

"I bought a pair to review and write a couple of articles about, intent on returning them on the Jan 4 extended holiday return deadline. However, after using the AirPods Max for a few weeks, they've grown on me. It's hard to stomach the high price tag, but the overall experience has made the over-ear headphones a gadget I truly enjoy owning," he said. 

Also: This wireless portable speaker delivers amazingly smooth sound with little distortion - and it's $130 off

Although these headphones are not cheap, they provide a unique audio experience and aesthetic, and there's no better time to buy them than when they're on sale. If you've been eyeing Apple's AirPods Max headphones, don't wait to snag these savings -- they won't last long.

Looking for the next best product? Get expert reviews and editor favorites with ZDNET Recommends.

How I rated this deal

AirPods Max rarely see hefty discounts, especially when there aren't any holiday sales happening. Factoring in that these are older Lightning models, we gave this deal a 2/5 Editor's deal rating. The discount totals 18%, which is lower than some sales we've seen. However, this is still an excellent price for an Apple product, especially if you want to try a pair.