Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
📺 Video review by SoundGuys
See today’s price and availability
Quick Verdict
Pros
- Unrivaled comfort
- Top-tier ANC
- Excellent Immersive Audio
- Good battery life
- Great build quality
Cons
- Very expensive
- Immersive Audio drains battery
- Touch volume slider can be touchy
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones represent the pinnacle of Bose's noise-canceling technology, replacing the popular NC 700. With a focus on comfort and a new feature called "Immersive Audio," Bose is aiming to reclaim its throne from Sony's WH-1000XM5 in the premium headphone market.
Iconic Comfort Redefined
Living up to the "QuietComfort" name, the Ultra model is incredibly light. The headband is redesigned to provide a more even weight distribution, and the protein leather ear pads are among the softest we have ever tested. You can truly wear these for 10+ hours without any feeling of clamping or pressure.
Immersive Audio: A New Way to Listen
The standout feature is Immersive Audio. It uses proprietary signal processing to make the sound feel like it is coming from two speakers in front of you, rather than inside your head. It works with any stereo content and makes the soundstage feel significantly wider and more natural.
Noise Cancellation: Still the Gold Standard
While Sony has made strides, Bose still holds a slight edge in pure noise cancellation, especially when it comes to unpredictably loud environments like a busy office or a construction site. The "Aware Mode" is also industry-leading, sounding almost as natural as not wearing headphones at all.
Technical Specifications
| Driver Size | 40mm dynamic drivers |
| Weight | 9.0 oz (254g) |
| Battery Life | 24hrs (ANC on), 18hrs (Immersive Audio) |
| Charging | USB-C, 15 min = 2.5 hours |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 with multipoint |
| Special Features | Immersive Audio, CustomTune |
Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra: Side-by-Side
| Feature | Sony WH-1000XM5 | Bose QC Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $348 | $429 |
| Weight | 250g (lighter) | 254g |
| Active Noise Cancellation | ⭐ Excellent (high-freq) | ⭐ Excellent (natural) |
| Battery Life | 30hrs ANC on | 24hrs ANC on |
| Comfort | Very Good | ⭐ Exceptional |
| Sound Quality | ⭐ Crisp, balanced | Warm, immersive |
| Special Feature | LDAC, Auto-NC | Immersive Audio |
| Foldable | ❌ Flat only | ✅ Yes |
| Best For | Sound quality, Android | Comfort, travel |
Verdict: Choose Sony for best ANC and sound; choose Bose for ultimate comfort and foldability.
Who Should NOT Buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Skip these headphones if you:
See today’s price and availability
- Are on a budget - At $429, these are premium-priced; Sony XM5 offers similar performance for less
- Prioritize battery life - Immersive Audio drains battery faster; Sennheiser Momentum 4 offers 60 hours
- Need the absolute best ANC for high frequencies - Sony XM5 has a slight edge
- Want compact earbuds instead - Get AirPods Pro 2 for true portability
- Prefer analytical sound signature - Bose prioritizes warmth over clinical accuracy
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Immersive Audio and is it worth it?
Immersive Audio uses spatial processing to make music sound like it's coming from speakers in front of you rather than inside your head. It works with any stereo content and significantly widens the soundstage, though it does drain battery faster.
How does Bose ANC compare to Sony?
Bose excels in unpredictable environments (offices, cafes) with natural-sounding Aware Mode. Sony XM5 has slightly better high-frequency noise blocking. Both are industry-leading.
Can I use these for gaming?
Yes, via Bluetooth, but expect slight latency. For gaming, wired headphones or gaming-specific wireless headsets are better.
Do they fold for travel?
Yes, they fold flat into the included hard-shell case, making them more travel-friendly than the Sony WH-1000XM5 which doesn't fold.
Alternative Options to Consider
- Sony WH-1000XM5 - Best overall ANC and sound, slightly less comfortable ($348)
- Bose QuietComfort 45 - Previous gen with 90% of Ultra features at lower price (~$329)
- AirPods Pro 2 - For earbuds with excellent ANC in a portable package ($249)
- Sennheiser Momentum 4 - For audiophiles wanting 60-hour battery life ($379)
Verdict
If comfort and absolute silence are your top priorities, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra are the headphones to get. For a more portable option with similar noise cancellation, check out the AirPods Pro 2. They are expensive, but they deliver a luxury listening experience that few can match.
Availability
View on AmazonSee today’s price and availability
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.