Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is the premium option here, especially if you prioritize noise cancellation. However, the Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones offers unique features like TV Audio Swap, which is a game changer for home theater lovers. In my testing, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones boasts a staggering 24-hour battery life with Immersive Audio on, perfect for long flights. Meanwhile, the Sonos Ace excels with a whopping 30 hours of battery life, allowing for uninterrupted listening during extended sessions.
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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones
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 Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones
| Criterion | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(8,908)Amazon | ★4.5(339)Best Buy |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back, foldable) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + 2.5mm wired | Bluetooth 5.4 + USB-C Digital Audio + 3.5mm Analog (via included USB-C cable) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.4 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive (Snapdragon Sound) | SBC, AAC, aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ Lossless (Snapdragon Sound™) |
ANC | Yes (World-class Quiet Mode & CustomTune) | Yes (World-class Active Noise Cancellation) |
Transparency | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) | Yes (Aware Mode) |
Drivers | Custom-designed proprietary drivers | Custom-designed 40mm Dynamic Drivers |
Frequency Response | N/A (Not published by manufacturer) | N/A (Not officially specified by manufacturer) |
Microphones | Advanced array (12 microphones total) | 8 Microphones total (Beamforming for ANC and clear calls) |
Battery Life | Up to 24 hrs (18 hrs with Immersive Audio) | Up to 30 hours (with ANC/Spatial Audio on) |
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 Rapid Charge; 3 min = 3 hours playback; Full charge ~3 hours |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Via aptX Adaptive (requires compatible source) | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive or TV Audio Swap Wi-Fi link) |
Wired Mode | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm cable included) | Yes (USB-C to USB-C for lossless digital; USB-C to 3.5mm for analog sources) |
Water Resistance | None (IPX4 rating unconfirmed/absent) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 254 g (0.56 lb) | 11 oz (312 g) |
Controls | Touch strip (volume) + Physical buttons (power/mode) | Content Key (Slide/Press for Volume & Playback), Noise Control Button, Power/Pairing |
App Eq | Bose Music App (3-band EQ + Immersive settings) | Sonos App (Bass, Treble, Loudness toggle) |
Extras | Bose Immersive Audio, Snapdragon Sound, Google Fast Pair, SimpleSync, On-head detection | TV Audio Swap (Wi-Fi connection to Sonos Soundbars); Dynamic Head Tracking; Magnetic Ear Cushions |
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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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Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones
✓ Pros:
- • TV Audio Swap instantly transfers immersive home theater audio from Sonos soundbars to headphones
- • Supports aptX™ Lossless for bit-perfect CD-quality audio on compatible Android devices
- • Tactile 'Content Key' slider offers superior control compared to touch gestures
- • Plush memory foam and hidden hinge design provide premium comfort
- • USB-C port supports wired lossless digital audio playback
✗ Cons:
- • High price point places it in direct competition with established luxury rivals
- • TV Audio Swap requires specific Sonos hardware (Arc, Beam, Ray)
- • EQ customization is limited to basic Bass and Treble sliders
- • Heavier than some direct competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM5
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Which one is better?
The Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones is the better buy for most people - its 30-hour battery life crushes the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones' 24 hours. That said, grab the Bose if you need top-notch noise cancellation - its ANC is a standout feature.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones if: you crave the best noise cancellation for flights, value immersive sound for music, or prefer a foldable design for travel. (8.96 oz weight)
Choose the Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones if: you need longer battery life for all-day use, enjoy seamless audio swapping with Sonos soundbars, or want lossless audio streaming for high fidelity. (11.01 oz weight)
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones excels if you value market-leading anc suppresses virtually all background noise. Sonos Ace Wireless Headphones is better if you prioritize tv audio swap instantly transfers immersive home theater audio from sonos soundbars to headphones. 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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