Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones and the Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) are two top-tier options for consumers seeking premium audio experiences. Bose is renowned for its legendary comfort and world-class Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize long-term wearability and immersive audio experiences. It boasts a 24-hour battery life with a quick-charge feature, making it practical for frequent travelers. In contrast, Apple AirPods Max are celebrated for their premium build quality and seamless integration with Apple devices, offering a compelling choice for users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. With a 20-hour battery life, the AirPods Max also provide exceptional transparency mode, making them suitable for users who need situational awareness while enjoying their music. Bose targets consumers who value comfort and portability, as evidenced by its lightweight 253g frame and foldable design, which is not a feature in the Apple AirPods Max. On the other hand, Apple's offering, with its heavier 385g construction, caters to users who appreciate high-quality materials and the benefits of Apple's H1 chip for seamless device switching and spatial audio. Both headphones offer excellent ANC but differ slightly in their approach to user experience and ecosystem integration.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
4.5
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
4.6
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Battery Life: 24 hours
ANC Performance: World Class + Immersion Mode
Multipoint Connection: Yes
Drivers: Bose Custom Drivers
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)

Battery Life: 20 hours
ANC Performance: Excellent + Best Transparency Mode
Multipoint Connection: Auto-Switch (Apple Only)
Drivers: Apple H1 Chip
Comparison: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
| Criterion | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5 | ★4.6 |
| Battery Life | 24 hours | 20 hours |
| ANC Performance | World Class + Immersion Mode | Excellent + Best Transparency Mode |
| Multipoint Connection | Yes | Auto-Switch (Apple Only) |
| Drivers | Bose Custom Drivers | Apple H1 Chip |
| Weight | 253g | 385g (Heavy) |
| Charging | 15 min charge = 2 hours playback | Lightning or USB-C (Check model) |
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| Cons |
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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
✓ Pros:
- • Legendary Bose comfort (wear all day)
- • Immersive Audio makes music sound 'live'
- • Folds down for travel (unlike Sony XM5)
✗ Cons:
- • Battery life is lower than competitors
- • Expensive price tag

Apple AirPods Max (USB-C)
✓ Pros:
- • Best transparency mode (sounds like wearing nothing)
- • Premium stainless steel construction
- • Spatial Audio works perfectly with Apple TV
✗ Cons:
- • Significantly heavier than Sony or Bose
- • Smart Case offers zero protection
Which one is better?
The Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) wins overall due to its superior integration with Apple devices and premium build quality (385g stainless steel). However, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones excel in comfort and portability, with a lighter weight (253g) and longer battery life (24 hours vs. 20 hours).
Who should buy each?
- "Choose Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones if..." 1. You prioritize comfort for all-day wear. 2. You need longer battery life (24 hours) for extended usage. 3. Portability is important, and you prefer foldable headphones. - "Choose Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) if..." 1. You are deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. 2. You value premium materials and build quality. 3. You want the best transparency mode for situational awareness. - "They're equally matched on..." 1. Both offer excellent Active Noise Cancellation. 2. Both support multipoint connection, though Apple's is limited to its ecosystem.
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
FAQs
+ Which has better value?
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones excels if you value legendary bose comfort (wear all day). Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) is better if you prioritize best transparency mode (sounds like wearing nothing). 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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