Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
The Bose QuietComfort Headphones is the premium option here, and it shines with its Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and legendary comfort. In real-world use, the QC45 offers 24 hours of battery life, which is solid, but the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) takes the lead with a staggering 50 hours of continuous playback. What matters most here is how these headphones cater to your needs. If you’re looking for the best noise isolation and physical button controls, the QC45 is worth the extra investment. However, if you need a longer battery life and enjoy high-resolution audio support, the ATH-M50xBT2 is a no-brainer for extended listening sessions, especially for gaming or photography.
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Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
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 Headphones vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
| Criterion | Bose QuietComfort Headphones | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(16,733)Amazon | ★4.4(3,219)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable | Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (Quiet & Aware modes + Custom modes) | No (Passive noise isolation only) |
Transparency | Yes (Aware Mode) | No |
Drivers | Custom dynamic drivers (Size/Type undisclosed by manufacturer) | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz (Measured) | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz |
Microphones | Microphone system with noise-rejecting boomless array | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) |
Battery Life | Up to 24 hrs | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) |
Battery Life | N/A (Headphones only) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C; 2.5 hrs for full charge; 15 min = up to 2.5 hrs play | USB-C; ~3.5 hours full charge; 10 min rapid charge = up to 3 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices with seamless switching) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (SimpleSync available only for Bose Soundbars) | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Active or Passive - passive sounds different) | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) |
Water Resistance | None | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 238 g | 10.8 oz (307 g) |
Controls | Physical buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, Mode Switch) | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Bose Music app (3-band EQ + Presets) | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) |
Extras | Wind Block feature; Spotify Tap; Foldable design; Hard carry case included | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included |
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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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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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Which one is better?
The Bose QuietComfort Headphones is the better buy for most people - its Active Noise Cancelling crushes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black). That said, grab the ATH-M50xBT2 if you need exceptional battery life - it lasts 50 hours compared to the QC45's 24 hours.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Bose QuietComfort Headphones if: you want the best noise cancellation, prefer physical buttons for controls, or need a comfortable fit for long hours. (8.40 oz weight)
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you need up to 50 hours of battery life, enjoy high-resolution audio, or prioritize seamless device switching.
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). Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is better if you prioritize exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. 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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