Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Get the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones unless you crave audiophile sound. The numbers: 24-hour battery life vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi's stunning 42 hours with USB-DAC mode. In real-world use, this means you can binge-watch your favorite series without worrying about charging every day. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is the flagship option here, delivering market-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) that suppresses virtually all background noise. However, if you're an audiophile who values sound fidelity, the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi's 24-bit/192kHz audio might just take your listening experience to new heights, making it a worthy investment for serious music lovers in 2026.
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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
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 Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
| Criterion | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(8,908)Amazon | ★4.2(465)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back, foldable) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + 2.5mm wired | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive (Snapdragon Sound) | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive |
ANC | Yes (World-class Quiet Mode & CustomTune) | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) |
Transparency | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | Custom-designed proprietary drivers | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) |
Frequency Response | N/A (Not published by manufacturer) | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | Advanced array (12 microphones total) | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) |
Battery Life | Up to 24 hrs (18 hrs with Immersive Audio) | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) |
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 Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Via aptX Adaptive (requires compatible source) | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) |
Wired Mode | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm cable included) | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) |
Water Resistance | None (IPX4 rating unconfirmed/absent) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 254 g (0.56 lb) | 12.3 oz (350 g) |
Controls | Touch strip (volume) + Physical buttons (power/mode) | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Bose Music App (3-band EQ + Immersive settings) | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) |
Extras | Bose Immersive Audio, Snapdragon Sound, Google Fast Pair, SimpleSync, On-head detection | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support |
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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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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
✓ Pros:
- • USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio directly from a computer or phone
- • Aluminum/Magnesium drivers provide audiophile-level detail and dynamic range
- • Mimi Sound Personalization adapts the audio profile to your specific hearing health
- • Premium construction with real leather, aluminum, and magnesium materials
- • Solid battery life across all modes, especially when using the internal DAC (42 hours)
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) requires care during use
- • High price point targets a niche audiophile audience rather than general consumers
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Which one is better?
The Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is the better buy for most people - its extraordinary 42-hour battery life crushes the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. That said, grab the Bose if you need superior ANC for travel - it's the ultimate noise-canceling experience.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones if: you need top-notch noise cancellation for travel, prioritize comfort over long listening sessions, or want advanced touch controls. (8.96 oz weight)
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you crave high-fidelity audio, need a long-lasting battery for multiple days without charging, or enjoy customizing your sound profile with Mimi Sound Personalization. (12.35 oz weight)
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 Ultra Headphones excels if you value market-leading anc suppresses virtually all background noise. Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is better if you prioritize usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. 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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