Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is the flagship option here, delivering world-class Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with 12 microphones that block nearly all background noise. Meanwhile, the Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones offers a significantly longer battery life of 60 hours, making it an attractive budget choice for those who prioritize endurance over premium features. In real-world use, the Bose model's 24-hour battery life is decent, but if you're on a long flight or road trip, the Soundcore's 60 hours means you can go days without charging.
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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling 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 Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
| Criterion | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(8,908)Amazon | ★4.6(49,159)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back, foldable) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + 2.5mm wired | Bluetooth 5.0 + 3.5mm AUX (wired) |
Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive (Snapdragon Sound) | SBC, AAC |
ANC | Yes (World-class Quiet Mode & CustomTune) | Yes (Hybrid ANC; reduces up to 90% of low-frequency noise) |
Transparency | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | Custom-designed proprietary drivers | 40mm Dynamic Drivers (Hi-Res Audio Certified in wired mode) |
Frequency Response | N/A (Not published by manufacturer) | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz (Wireless) / 16 Hz – 40,000 Hz (Wired) |
Microphones | Advanced array (12 microphones total) | Single microphone for calls (AI noise reduction); 4 total mics for ANC processing |
Battery Life | Up to 24 hrs (18 hrs with Immersive Audio) | Up to 60 hours (ANC off) / Up to 40 hours (ANC 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 Fast Charge; 5 min charge = 4 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | Yes (Dual-device connection) |
Low Latency Mode | Via aptX Adaptive (requires compatible source) | No (Standard Bluetooth latency ~200ms) |
Wired Mode | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm cable included) | Yes (3.5mm AUX cable included; ANC functions are disabled in wired mode) |
Water Resistance | None (IPX4 rating unconfirmed/absent) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 254 g (0.56 lb) | 8.6 oz (244 g) |
Controls | Touch strip (volume) + Physical buttons (power/mode) | Physical Buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, NC Button) |
App Eq | Bose Music App (3-band EQ + Immersive settings) | soundcore App (Custom EQ + 22 Presets) |
Extras | Bose Immersive Audio, Snapdragon Sound, Google Fast Pair, SimpleSync, On-head detection | BassUp Technology; Foldable design; White noise soundscapes in app |
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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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Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional battery life (60 hours) outperforms many premium competitors
- • Hybrid ANC effectively blocks low-frequency engine noise for the price
- • App support allows for deep EQ customization and firmware updates
- • Bluetooth Multipoint is a rare and valuable feature in the budget tier
- • Comfortable, lightweight fit suitable for long listening sessions
✗ Cons:
- • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) cannot be used in wired mode
- • Call quality is mediocre with only a single microphone for voice pickup
- • No low-latency mode makes it unsuitable for competitive wireless gaming
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Which one is better?
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is the better buy for most people - its world-class ANC with 12 mics crushes the Soundcore Life Q20i.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones if: you want the best noise cancellation, you value superior audio quality, or you frequently travel and need comfort for long sessions. (8.96 oz weight)
Choose the Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones if: you need exceptional battery life for long trips, you’re on a budget, or you listen primarily in wired mode. (8.61 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. Soundcore Life Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones is better if you prioritize exceptional battery life (60 hours) outperforms many premium competitors. 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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