Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
If you are torn between Bose QuietComfort Headphones and Apple AirPods Max (USB-C), this breakdown is for you. We compare specs, pros, and cons so you can decide confidently.
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Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Comparison: Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
| Criterion | Bose QuietComfort Headphones | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(16,733)Amazon | ★4.6(3,079)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable | Bluetooth 5.0; USB-C (charging + lossless wired audio) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 | 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC | AAC, SBC (Wireless); ALAC (Wired via USB-C) |
ANC | Yes (Quiet & Aware modes + Custom modes) | Yes (Pro-level Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | Yes (Aware Mode) | Yes (Transparency mode) |
Drivers | Custom dynamic drivers (Size/Type undisclosed by manufacturer) | 40mm Apple-designed dynamic driver |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz (Measured) | Not officially specified |
Microphones | Microphone system with noise-rejecting boomless array | 9 mics (8 for ANC, 3 for voice pickup - 2 shared) |
Battery Life | Up to 24 hrs | Up to 20 h (with ANC/Spatial Audio) |
Battery Life | N/A (Headphones only) | N/A (Smart Case preserves battery, does not charge) |
Charging | USB-C; 2.5 hrs for full charge; 15 min = up to 2.5 hrs play | USB-C |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices with seamless switching) | Automatic Switching (Apple ecosystem only) |
Low Latency Mode | No (SimpleSync available only for Bose Soundbars) | Ultra-low latency via USB-C (wired) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Active or Passive - passive sounds different) | Yes (Lossless digital audio via USB-C cable) |
Water Resistance | None | None |
Weight | 238 g | 0.85 lb (385 g) |
Controls | Physical buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, Mode Switch) | Digital Crown (volume/control), Noise Control button |
App Eq | Bose Music app (3-band EQ + Presets) | iOS Settings (Headphone Accommodations) |
Extras | Wind Block feature; Spotify Tap; Foldable design; Hard carry case included | Personalized Spatial Audio; Find My support; Smart Case (low power mode) |
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Bose QuietComfort Headphones
✓ Pros:
- • Legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads)
- • Best-in-class physical buttons (preferred by many over touch)
- • Excellent noise cancellation consistency
- • Foldable design is travel-friendly (unlike Sony XM5/Bose Ultra)
✗ Cons:
- • No wear sensors (music does not auto-pause when taken off)
- • 2.5mm audio jack limits third-party cable options
- • Still uses older Bluetooth 5.1 compared to competitors
- • No high-bitrate codecs (no LDAC or aptX)
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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.
Which one is better?
Overall, Bose QuietComfort Headphones delivers better satisfaction. Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is still a quality option with specific strengths worth considering.
Who should buy each?
Bose QuietComfort Headphones excels at: Legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads), Best-in-class physical buttons (preferred by many over touch)
Watch for: No wear sensors (music does not auto-pause when taken off)
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) excels at: Seamless switching and integration within Apple ecosystem, Class-leading ANC and Transparency modes
Watch for: Heavier than most competitors (385g)
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?
Bose QuietComfort Headphones excels if you value legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads). Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is better if you prioritize seamless switching and integration within apple ecosystem. 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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