Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Time to compare Bose QuietComfort Headphones with Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. We will cover the essentials so you can buy with confidence.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Comparison: Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
| Criterion | Bose QuietComfort Headphones | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(16,733)Amazon | ★4.2(8,908)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear | Over-ear (closed-back, foldable) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, 2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable | Bluetooth 5.3 + 2.5mm wired |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 | 5.3 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive (Snapdragon Sound) |
ANC | Yes (Quiet & Aware modes + Custom modes) | Yes (World-class Quiet Mode & CustomTune) |
Transparency | Yes (Aware Mode) | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) |
Drivers | Custom dynamic drivers (Size/Type undisclosed by manufacturer) | Custom-designed proprietary drivers |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz (Measured) | N/A (Not published by manufacturer) |
Microphones | Microphone system with noise-rejecting boomless array | Advanced array (12 microphones total) |
Battery Life | Up to 24 hrs | Up to 24 hrs (18 hrs with Immersive Audio) |
Battery Life | N/A (Headphones only) | N/A (Headphones only) |
Charging | USB-C; 2.5 hrs for full charge; 15 min = up to 2.5 hrs play | USB-C; ~3 hrs full; 15 min = 2.5 hrs playback |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices with seamless switching) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (SimpleSync available only for Bose Soundbars) | Via aptX Adaptive (requires compatible source) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Active or Passive - passive sounds different) | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm cable included) |
Water Resistance | None | None (IPX4 rating unconfirmed/absent) |
Weight | 238 g | 254 g (0.56 lb) |
Controls | Physical buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, Mode Switch) | Touch strip (volume) + Physical buttons (power/mode) |
App Eq | Bose Music app (3-band EQ + Presets) | Bose Music App (3-band EQ + Immersive settings) |
Extras | Wind Block feature; Spotify Tap; Foldable design; Hard carry case included | Bose Immersive Audio, Snapdragon Sound, Google Fast Pair, SimpleSync, On-head detection |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
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)
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?
Bose QuietComfort Headphones 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:
- Bose QuietComfort Headphones suits buyers who need Legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads), Best-in-class physical buttons (preferred by many over touch)
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones suits buyers who want Market-leading ANC suppresses virtually all background noise, Bose Immersive Audio creates a wider soundstage
Conclusion
Bose QuietComfort Headphones and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Bose QuietComfort Headphones excels if you value legendary comfort (low clamping force, deep ear pads). 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.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.