Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones: which is the right fit? We cover performance, value, and use cases to make the call easier.
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Comparison: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
| Criterion | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.4(3,219)Amazon | ★4.2(8,908)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back, foldable) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) | Bluetooth 5.3 + 2.5mm wired |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | 5.3 |
Codecs | LDAC, AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive (Snapdragon Sound) |
ANC | No (Passive noise isolation only) | Yes (World-class Quiet Mode & CustomTune) |
Transparency | No | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) |
Drivers | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets | Custom-designed proprietary drivers |
Frequency Response | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz | N/A (Not published by manufacturer) |
Microphones | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) | Advanced array (12 microphones total) |
Battery Life | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) | Up to 24 hrs (18 hrs with Immersive Audio) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C; ~3.5 hours full charge; 10 min rapid charge = up to 3 hours playback | USB-C; ~3 hrs full; 15 min = 2.5 hrs playback |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) | Via aptX Adaptive (requires compatible source) |
Wired Mode | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm cable included) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | None (IPX4 rating unconfirmed/absent) |
Weight | 10.8 oz (307 g) | 254 g (0.56 lb) |
Controls | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) | Touch strip (volume) + Physical buttons (power/mode) |
App Eq | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) | Bose Music App (3-band EQ + Immersive settings) |
Extras | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included | Bose Immersive Audio, Snapdragon Sound, Google Fast Pair, SimpleSync, On-head detection |
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- • High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
- • Multipoint pairing allows seamless switching between two devices
- • Preserves the acclaimed sonic signature of the wired M50x studio monitors
- • Dedicated low-latency mode improves lip-sync for gaming and video
✗ Cons:
- • Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- • No official IP water or dust resistance rating
- • Passive noise isolation is effective but not equal to active solutions
- • Clamp force may feel tight for some users during extended listening sessions
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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)
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Which one is better?
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) 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?
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) excels at: Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency, High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
Watch for: Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones excels at: Market-leading ANC suppresses virtually all background noise, Bose Immersive Audio creates a wider soundstage
Watch for: High price tag compared to competitors
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) excels if you value exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. 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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