Focal Bathys Hi-Fi vs Bose QuietComfort SC
The Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is the flagship option here, designed for audiophiles who crave top-tier sound quality. With its USB-DAC mode delivering uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio, it's a serious upgrade for music lovers. In real-world use, the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi lasts an impressive 42 hours on battery, far surpassing the Bose QuietComfort SC's 24 hours. The Bose QuietComfort SC offers world-class noise cancellation and a lighter design at just 8.5 oz, making it perfect for all-day wear. So, if comfort and convenience matter more to you, the Bose might be your go-to.
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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
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: Focal Bathys Hi-Fi vs Bose QuietComfort SC
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Bose QuietComfort SC
| Criterion | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi | Bose QuietComfort SC |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.2(465)Amazon | ★4.6(16,733)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) | Bluetooth 5.1 + 2.5mm Jack (Analog) + USB-C (Charging only) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive | AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) | Yes (Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, Custom Modes with Wind Block) |
Transparency | Yes (Transparency Mode) | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) |
Drivers | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) | Bose TriPort acoustic architecture (Proprietary) |
Frequency Response | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz | Not disclosed by manufacturer |
Microphones | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) | Built-in microphone array (calls/ANC) + In-line microphone on audio cable |
Battery Life | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) | Up to 24 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback | USB-C; 2.5 hours full charge; 15 min rapid charge = up to 4 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) | No (Standard SBC/AAC latency) |
Wired Mode | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable included; works passively without battery) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 12.3 oz (350 g) | 8.5 oz (240 g) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) | Physical buttons (Power/BT, Volume +/-, Multi-function, Action button) |
App Eq | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) | Bose Music app (3-band EQ, Custom ANC modes, Shortcut settings) |
Extras | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support | Soft carrying case (SC exclusive); SimpleSync (connect to Bose soundbars); Spotify Tap |
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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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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 Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is the better buy for most people - its 42-hour battery life crushes the Bose QuietComfort SC's 24 hours. That said, grab the Bose if you prioritize comfort and lower weight - it's lighter.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you want uncompressed audio quality, need long battery life for travel, or value premium materials. (12.35 oz weight)
Choose the Bose QuietComfort SC if: you prefer a lighter design, want superior noise cancellation for daily commuting, or need a comfortable fit for extended wear. (8.47 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?
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi excels if you value usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. 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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