Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort SC
For superior sound and noise cancellation, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones crush the Bose QuietComfort SC. With Bose's flagship model featuring Immersive Audio technology, you get a wider soundstage and the ability to customize your listening experience. After testing both, the Ultra's 24-hour battery life—18 hours with Immersive Audio—shows its premium capabilities.
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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Bose QuietComfort SC
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 Ultra Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort SC
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Bose QuietComfort SC
| Criterion | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | Bose QuietComfort SC |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(8,908)Amazon | ★4.6(16,733)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back, foldable) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + 2.5mm wired | Bluetooth 5.1 + 2.5mm Jack (Analog) + USB-C (Charging only) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive (Snapdragon Sound) | AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (World-class Quiet Mode & CustomTune) | Yes (Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, Custom Modes with Wind Block) |
Transparency | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) |
Drivers | Custom-designed proprietary drivers | Bose TriPort acoustic architecture (Proprietary) |
Frequency Response | N/A (Not published by manufacturer) | Not disclosed by manufacturer |
Microphones | Advanced array (12 microphones total) | Built-in microphone array (calls/ANC) + In-line microphone on audio cable |
Battery Life | Up to 24 hrs (18 hrs with Immersive Audio) | Up to 24 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) |
Battery Life | N/A (Headphones only) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C; ~3 hrs full; 15 min = 2.5 hrs playback | USB-C; 2.5 hours full charge; 15 min rapid charge = up to 4 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Via aptX Adaptive (requires compatible source) | No (Standard SBC/AAC latency) |
Wired Mode | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm cable included) | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable included; works passively without battery) |
Water Resistance | None (IPX4 rating unconfirmed/absent) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 254 g (0.56 lb) | 8.5 oz (240 g) |
Controls | Touch strip (volume) + Physical buttons (power/mode) | Physical buttons (Power/BT, Volume +/-, Multi-function, Action button) |
App Eq | Bose Music App (3-band EQ + Immersive settings) | Bose Music app (3-band EQ, Custom ANC modes, Shortcut settings) |
Extras | Bose Immersive Audio, Snapdragon Sound, Google Fast Pair, SimpleSync, On-head detection | Soft carrying case (SC exclusive); SimpleSync (connect to Bose soundbars); Spotify Tap |
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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)
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Bose QuietComfort SC
✓ Pros:
- • World-class noise cancellation with adjustable modes and Wind Block
- • Extremely comfortable 'clamp-free' fit suitable for all-day wear
- • Physical buttons provide reliable control compared to touch gestures
- • Soft case makes the headphones easier to pack into tight bags than hard shells
- • Multipoint Bluetooth allows seamless switching between phone and laptop
✗ Cons:
- • Soft case offers significantly less impact protection than the standard hard case
- • Lacks high-bitrate codecs (aptX/LDAC) found in competitors
- • Wired connection requires a 2.5mm cable (less common than 3.5mm)
- • No USB-C audio support (USB port is for charging only)
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Which one is better?
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is the better buy for most people - its Immersive Audio feature elevates your listening experience significantly.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones if: you crave immersive sound quality, need top-tier noise cancellation, or plan to use them for long listening sessions. (8.96 oz weight)
Choose the Bose QuietComfort SC if: you want a lightweight design, prefer physical controls, or need reliable performance for daily commutes. (8.47 oz weight)
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones excels if you value market-leading anc suppresses virtually all background noise. Bose QuietComfort SC is better if you prioritize world-class noise cancellation with adjustable modes and wind block. 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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