Bose QuietComfort SC vs Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort SC is the smarter buy for most people, featuring 24 hours of battery life compared to the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX's impressive 35 hours. However, if you're after luxury and build quality, the Beoplay HX shines with its premium materials and design. In real-world use, the Bose offers outstanding noise cancellation and comfort, making it a go-to for long listening sessions. Key specs: Battery: 24h vs 35h and Weight: 8.5oz vs 10.1oz.
Why compare these? The Bose QuietComfort SC (mid-range) and Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones (high-end) represent different approaches to headphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Bose QuietComfort | Bang & |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.6★ (16,733 reviews) | 4.2★ (1,325 reviews) |
| Top Strength | World-class noise cancellation with adjustable modes and Wind Block | Luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather |
| Main Drawback | Soft case offers significantly less impact protection than the standard hard case | No digital audio support via USB-C (charging only) |
| Market Position | Mid-range | ✓Premium |
Bose QuietComfort SC
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.1 + 2.5mm Jack (Analog) + USB-C (Charging only)
Bluetooth 5.1
AAC, SBC
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Over-ear (Circumaural)
Bluetooth 5.1 (Multipoint); 3.5 mm Analog Input
5.1
aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Bose QuietComfort SC vs Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Bose QuietComfort SC
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
| Criterion | Bose QuietComfort SC | Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(16,733)Amazon | ★4.2(1,325)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (Circumaural) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 + 2.5mm Jack (Analog) + USB-C (Charging only) | Bluetooth 5.1 (Multipoint); 3.5 mm Analog Input |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 | 5.1 |
Codecs | AAC, SBC | aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, Custom Modes with Wind Block) | Yes (Digital Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | Bose TriPort acoustic architecture (Proprietary) | 40 mm Electro-dynamic drivers with Neodymium magnets |
Frequency Response | Not disclosed by manufacturer | 20 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | Built-in microphone array (calls/ANC) + In-line microphone on audio cable | 4 x Digital MEMS voice mics (2 shared with ANC) + 4 x Dedicated MEMS ANC mics |
Battery Life | Up to 24 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) | Up to 35 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / Up to 40 hours (Bluetooth only) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C; 2.5 hours full charge; 15 min rapid charge = up to 4 hours playback | USB-C (Approx. 3 hours for full charge) |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (Connect two devices simultaneously) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Standard SBC/AAC latency) | Yes (via aptX Adaptive automatically) |
Wired Mode | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable included; works passively without battery) | Yes (3.5 mm mini-jack; Passive playback supported; Mic does not work in wired mode; USB-C is charging only) |
Water Resistance | None (No IP rating) | No (No official IP rating) |
Weight | 8.5 oz (240 g) | 285 g (10.1 oz) |
Controls | Physical buttons (Power/BT, Volume +/-, Multi-function, Action button) | Touch interface (Right earcup: Play/Pause, Volume, Skip) + Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, ANC toggle, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Bose Music app (3-band EQ, Custom ANC modes, Shortcut settings) | Bang & Olufsen App (Beosonic™ intuitive tone-touch EQ; not a standard band EQ) |
Extras | Soft carrying case (SC exclusive); SimpleSync (connect to Bose soundbars); Spotify Tap | Google Fast Pair; Microsoft Swift Pair; Made for iPhone (MFi); Replaceable battery (serviceable); Lambskin leather ear cushions; Fabric carrying case included |
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Bose QuietComfort SC
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.1 + 2.5mm Jack (Analog) + USB-C (Charging only)
Bluetooth 5.1
AAC, SBC
Yes (Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, Custom Modes with Wind Block)
Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense)
Pros
- World-class noise cancellation with adjustable modes and Wind Block
- Extremely comfortable 'clamp-free' fit suitable for all-day wear
Cons
- Soft case offers significantly less impact protection than the standard hard case
- Lacks high-bitrate codecs (aptX/LDAC) found in competitors
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Over-ear (Circumaural)
Bluetooth 5.1 (Multipoint); 3.5 mm Analog Input
5.1
aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC
Yes (Digital Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation)
Yes (Transparency Mode)
Pros
- Luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather
- Excellent battery life (35 hours with ANC) for a lightweight headset
Cons
- No digital audio support via USB-C (charging only)
- Charging is slow (approx. 3 hours) compared to competitors
Which one is better?
The Bose QuietComfort SC is the better buy for most people - its 24-hour battery life crushes the Beoplay HX's 35 hours in terms of value. That said, grab the Beoplay HX if you crave premium materials and a signature sound experience - it's worth the extra investment for luxury lovers.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Bose QuietComfort SC if: you need great noise cancellation for commuting, want a comfortable fit for all-day wear, or are looking for a budget-friendly option. (8.47 oz weight)
Choose the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones if: you prioritize luxury materials, want the longest battery life for travel, or enjoy a balanced audio profile for critical listening. (10.05 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.6★ vs 4.2★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Bose QuietComfort
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 16,733 reviews vs 1,325
→ Choose Bose QuietComfort
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Bang &
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Bose QuietComfort
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Bottom line: The Bose QuietComfort SC edges ahead with a 4.6★ rating compared to 4.2★. However, Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Bose QuietComfort SC or Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones?
Bose QuietComfort SC is the better choice if you prioritize world-class noise cancellation with adjustable modes and wind block. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones wins if you value luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather. Both are rated highly (4.6★ vs 4.2★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Bose QuietComfort SC and Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones?
Key differences: Bose QuietComfort SC offers world-class noise cancellation with adjustable modes and wind block, while Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones stands out with luxurious build quality with aluminum, polymer, and lambskin leather. Consider that Bose QuietComfort SC soft case offers significantly less impact protection than the standard hard case. Meanwhile, Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones no digital audio support via usb-c (charging only). Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: February 6, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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