Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Time to compare Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) with Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. We will cover the essentials so you can buy with confidence.
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Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Comparison: Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
| Criterion | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon | ★4.2(8,908)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back, foldable) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio) | Bluetooth 5.3 + 2.5mm wired |
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.3 |
Codecs | AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C) | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive (Snapdragon Sound) |
ANC | Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation) | Yes (World-class Quiet Mode & CustomTune) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency mode) | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) |
Drivers | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver | Custom-designed proprietary drivers |
Frequency Response | Not officially specified | N/A (Not published by manufacturer) |
Microphones | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) | Advanced array (12 microphones total) |
Battery Life | Up to 20 h (with ANC/Spatial Audio) | Up to 24 hrs (18 hrs with Immersive Audio) |
Battery Life | N/A (Smart Case preserves battery, does not charge) | N/A (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C | USB-C; ~3 hrs full; 15 min = 2.5 hrs playback |
Multipoint | Automatic Switching (Apple ecosystem only) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Ultra-low latency via USB-C (wired) | Via aptX Adaptive (requires compatible source) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Lossless digital audio via USB-C cable) | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm cable included) |
Water Resistance | None | None (IPX4 rating unconfirmed/absent) |
Weight | 0.85 lb (385 g) | 254 g (0.56 lb) |
Controls | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button | Touch strip (volume) + Physical buttons (power/mode) |
App Eq | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) | Bose Music App (3-band EQ + Immersive settings) |
Extras | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) | Bose Immersive Audio, Snapdragon Sound, Google Fast Pair, SimpleSync, On-head detection |
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Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
✓ Pros:
- • Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem
- • Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes
- • Native Lossless Audio support via USB-C cable
- • Premium build quality with breathable mesh canopy
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier than most competitors (385g)
- • Smart Case offers minimal physical protection
- • Retains older H1 chip (misses Adaptive Audio/Conversation Awareness)
- • Expensive MSRP ($549) unchanged
- • No official water resistance rating
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
✓ Pros:
- • Market-leading ANC suppresses virtually all background noise
- • Bose Immersive Audio creates a wider soundstage
- • Extremely comfortable with plush earcups and headband
- • Supports aptX Adaptive and Snapdragon Sound for Android
- • Foldable design makes it more portable than the NC700
✗ Cons:
- • High price tag compared to competitors
- • 2.5mm audio jack is less convenient than standard 3.5mm
- • USB-C port is for charging only (no USB audio)
- • Cannot fully turn off ANC (only switch modes)
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Which one is better?
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is stronger in quality and performance, but Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones could still be the better pick if you value its unique advantages.
Who should buy each?
Expert take:
- Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) suits buyers who need Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem, Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones suits buyers who want Market-leading ANC suppresses virtually all background noise, Bose Immersive Audio creates a wider soundstage
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) excels if you value seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is better if you prioritize market-leading anc suppresses virtually all background noise. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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