Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£280
  • Form factor: over-ear
  • Connectivity: wireless
  • Battery life: 24 hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

8.4

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

8.2

Technical Score

20.0%

9.3

User score

Excellent
8.2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

8.3

Sound

20.0%

9.6

Features

10.0%

6.7

Design

8.0%

7.4

Connectivity

6.0%

5.6

Battery

4.0%

8.7

Calls & Controls

Excellent
9.3

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

9.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(9699)
amazon
4.0
(49)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(9699)
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(49)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

Exceptional
  • 8.9
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    9.0

    Audio latency

    25.0%

    9.0

    Low-latency game mode

    20.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    12.0%

    10

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    3.8

    Battery life

  • 7.5
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    3.8

    Battery life

    18.0%

    4.4

    Weight

    16.0%

    10

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    10

    Ambient sound mode

  • 9.0
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    10

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    3.8

    Battery life

    14.0%

    10

    Companion app

  • 6.2
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    4.4

    Weight

    24.0%

    10

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    4.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    3.8

    Battery life

    12.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are flagship over-ear wireless headphones featuring proprietary Immersive Audio spatial technology and class-leading active noise cancellation (ANC). Weighing 253g, they offer a premium build with aluminum arms, protein leather cushions, and a foldable design for portability. Key specifications include 35mm dynamic drivers, Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Adaptive and multipoint support, and up to 24 hours of battery life (18 hours with immersive audio). Main pros include industry-leading ANC performance, exceptional long-term wearing comfort, and improved call quality through a 10-microphone system. Notable cons include a high retail price, mediocre battery life compared to competitors, and the lack of an official IP rating for water resistance.

Technical Specifications of Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

8.3

Sound

20.0%

9.6

Features

10.0%

6.7

Design

8.0%

7.4

Connectivity

6.0%

5.6

Battery

4.0%

8.7

Calls & Controls

8.2
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a technical score of 8.18 points, which is higher than that of 95.8% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

9.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(9699)
amazon
4.0
(49)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(9699)
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(49)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

9.3
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a user score of 9.3 points, which is higher than that of 95.5% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
10
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 71.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

8.4

Overall score

40.0%

9.0

Price

8.6
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.6 points, which is higher than 94.2% of products in this category.
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports active noise cancellation. 72.6% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used
When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic
Driver size
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

35 mm
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones uses a driver size of 35 mm, smaller driver size than 73.6% of headphones and equal to 0.4% of headphones.
Number of drivers
What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup
When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

1
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

20 Hz
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones reaches a lowest frequency of 20 Hz, higher lowest frequency than 50.6% of headphones and equal to 47.5% of headphones.
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Noise-canceling microphone
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports a noise-canceling microphone. 54.5% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Can be used as a headset
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is headset-ready, 84.7% is not. 15.3% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

10
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has 10 microphones, more microphones than 99.8% of headphones and equal to 0.1% of headphones.
Boom microphone
What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity
When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

no
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones does not include a boom microphone. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
Microphone SNR
What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone
When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

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Connectivity
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

wireless
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports wireless connectivity, more flexible connectivity than 52.6% of headphones and equal to 47.4% of headphones.
supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported
When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

5.3
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones uses Bluetooth version 5.3, newer Bluetooth version than 88.6% of headphones and equal to 6.5% of headphones.
Maximum Bluetooth range
What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device
When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

9 m
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offers a Bluetooth range of 9 m, lower Bluetooth range than 98.7% of headphones and equal to 1.1% of headphones.
Audio latency
What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode
When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

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Multipoint support
What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices
When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports multipoint. 35% of headphones support multipoint.
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Ambient sound mode
What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness
When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports ambient sound mode. 23.2% of headphones support ambient sound mode.
EQ support
What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports EQ customization. 76.8% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates
When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones works with a companion app. 55.7% of headphones support companion apps.
Adjustable ANC levels
What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels
When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

10
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offers 10 adjustable ANC levels, more adjustable ANC levels than 98.8% of headphones and equal to 0.2% of headphones.
Voice assistant support
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

yes
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports voice assistants. 39.2% of headphones support voice assistants.
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Battery life
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

24 hours
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offers battery life of 24 hours, lower battery life than 59.1% of headphones and equal to 3.4% of headphones.
Battery life with ANC
What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

24 hours
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offers battery life with ANC of 24 hours, lower battery life with ANC than 65.7% of headphones and equal to 3.6% of headphones.
Charging time
What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

3 hours
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones needs 3 hours to charge, higher charging time than 66% of headphones and equal to 21.3% of headphones.
Quick charge
What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period
When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports quick charge. 31% of headphones support quick charge.
Battery capacity
What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery
When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

750 mAh
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a battery capacity of 750 mAh, higher battery capacity than 71.5% of headphones and equal to 2.6% of headphones.
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Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Bose
Form factor
What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)
When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

over-ear
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

252 g
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones weighs 252 g, heavier than 63% of headphones and equal to 0.4% of headphones.
Acoustic design
What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)
When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back
Clamp force
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

5.8
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a clamp force of 5.8, higher clamp force than 82.1% of headphones and equal to 5.7% of headphones.
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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs the average headphone

  • Active noise cancellation
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
    What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
    When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

    Importance: HIGH

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • EQ customization
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
    What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
    When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
  • Spatial audio support
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
    What it is: Supports immersive surround sound playback
    When it matters: When movies, games, and immersive mixes are part of your listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
    supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
    What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
    When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

    Importance: HIGH

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
  • Clear call microphone
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
    What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
    When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
    What it is: Physical controls available directly on headphones
    When it matters: When you need playback, volume, or call controls to be easy to reach without pulling out your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • 9 more microphones
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has more microphones than the average headphone (10 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
    What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
    When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=2

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has more microphones than the average headphone (10 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.10 vs 1
  • Wind noise reduction
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
    What it is: Reduces wind interference for clearer outdoor calls
    When it matters: When you take calls outdoors while walking, cycling, or commuting.

    Importance: LOW

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
  • Foldable design
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
  • Water resistance
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
  • Active noise cancellation
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • Spatial audio support
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports spatial audio, the average headphone does not. 30.7% of headphones support spatial audio.
  • USB-C charging
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
  • Rechargeable battery
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
  • 25% higher battery capacity
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (750 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
  • Play while charging
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
  • Clear call microphone
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • 9 more microphones
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has more microphones than the average headphone (10 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
  • Wind noise reduction
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
  • Sidetone support
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
  • Quick mic mute
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
  • EQ customization
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
  • 1.5 higher clamp force
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (5.8 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
  • 15.6% higher weight
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is heavier than the average headphone (252 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • 5 mm smaller driver size
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has smaller driver size than the average headphone (35 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
  • 2 Hz weaker bass extension
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • 1 hours longer charging time
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
  • 6 hours shorter ANC battery life
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
  • 6 hours shorter battery life
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a lower battery life than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
  • 1 hours longer charging time
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
    What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
    When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=2 hours

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.3 hours vs 2 hours
  • 5 mm smaller driver size
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has smaller driver size than the average headphone (35 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
    What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
    When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has smaller driver size than the average headphone (35 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.35 mm vs 40 mm
  • 2 Hz weaker bass extension
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=10 Hz

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • 1.5 higher clamp force
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (5.8 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
    What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
    When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (5.8 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.5.8 vs 4.3
  • 15.6% higher weight
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is heavier than the average headphone (252 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    What it is: Total weight of the headphones
    When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <150 g

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is heavier than the average headphone (252 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.252 g vs 218 g
  • 3.11x more expensive
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is more expensive than the average headphone (£280 vs £90).
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is more expensive than the average headphone (£280 vs £90).£280 vs £90
  • 6 hours shorter ANC battery life
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
    What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
    When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >40 hours

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.24 hours vs 30 hours
  • 6 hours shorter battery life
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a lower battery life than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
    What it is: Playback time on a single charge
    When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >45 hours

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones has a lower battery life than the average headphone (24 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.24 hours vs 30 hours

Graphic comparison of Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones and

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones?

  • World-class active noise cancellation (ANC) that excels in reducing commute and travel noise
  • Exceptional long-term comfort with a lightweight design and plush cushioning
  • Strong audio performance featuring rich bass and a spacious soundstage
  • Improved foldable design that allows for a more compact carrying case than previous models
  • Support for high-quality audio codecs like aptX Adaptive for compatible Android devices
  • Reliable Bluetooth multipoint pairing for connecting to two devices simultaneously

What customers dislike about Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones?

  • Substandard battery life compared to rivals, particularly when using Immersive Audio mode
  • Premium price point that may not feel entirely justified by the plastic-heavy build materials
  • Inconsistent spatial audio (Immersive Mode) which can sound overly processed or artificial depending on the track
  • Finicky touch controls, including a volume strip prone to accidental swipes
  • Lack of a completely passive wired mode, as the headphones must be powered on to use the analog connection
  • No official IP rating for water or sweat resistance, making them less suitable for intense workouts

Expert reviews

H
head-fi.org
15/03/2025

The Head-Fi review highlights the Bose QuietComfort Ultra as a top-tier ANC performer, praising its exceptionally clean, resolving midrange and superior comfort, particularly the lightweight, low-heat earpads. However, the headphones are noted for having an excessive, loose default bass and a relatively narrow soundstage, alongside potential "hot spots" from high clamping force....Read more

P
pickr.com.au
15/12/2023

Overview The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones ($649 AUD) successfully revitalize Bose's flagship lineup by blending the sleek design of the Noise Cancelling 700 with the oversized, highly comfortable ear pads of the QC 45. Equipped with 35mm drivers, these foldable headphones deliver an exceptionally clear and balanced audio profile across all music genres, standing out as a...Read more

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tomsguide.com
09/05/2025

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones deliver elite, all-encompassing active noise cancellation (ANC) that creates an immersive, eerie silence, making them a top choice for blocking out environmental noise. They feature an exemplary, lightweight design with soft cushioning and perfectly judged clamping force, making them exceptionally comfortable for long hours of wear. However,...Read more

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trustedreviews.com
01/04/2026

Trusted Reviews identifies the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) as the company's best flagship over-ear model to date, highlighting improved battery life, stronger wireless connectivity, refined audio, and a new wired USB-C input. While praised for exceptional comfort and improved active noise cancellation (ANC), the headphones fall short of being market leaders due to...Read more

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techgearlab.com
12/12/2025

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) wireless headphones earn the Editors' Choice Award as the best overall wireless headphones, standing out for their mind-blowing active noise cancellation (ANC), premium comfort, and clear call quality. Priced at a $449 list price, these lightweight (265g) headphones feature pillowy soft pleather earcups with memory-foam-like padding that easily...Read more

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soundguys.com
01/10/2025

The SoundGuys review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) identifies the device as a worthy, iterative update featuring USB-C lossless audio transmission. Retaining a comfortable, lightweight 253-gram design, the headphones boast top-tier active noise cancellation (ANC) that reduces ambient noise by 87%. With a consumer-friendly, bass-forward sound profile supported...Read more

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rtings.com
30/10/2025

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) offer premium comfort and exceptional noise isolation, featuring an improved 37-hour battery life and versatile connectivity options including USB-C audio. Performance strengths include a warm, customizable sound profile and an upgraded microphone system that ensures natural voice reproduction. However, the headphones exhibit...Read more

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whathifi.com
11/12/2024

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones serve as a highly entertaining flagship option that elevates wireless active noise cancellation (ANC) to class-leading heights. Priced premiumly at £450 / $429 / AU$649, these over-ears boast a practical, hinged folding design accompanied by a compact carry case, making them highly portable compared to non-folding rivals like the Sony...Read more

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soundguys.com
20/11/2023

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are a premium, lightweight (253g) headset offering exceptional comfort with thick, glasses-friendly padding and a folding design. They excel in active noise canceling (ANC), reducing ambient noise by roughly 87%, and feature modern codec support including Snapdragon Sound and aptX Lossless. Key drawbacks highlighted in the review include a...Read more

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theguardian.com
06/11/2023

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are an ultra-premium replacement for the NCH700, retailing at a hefty £449.95 (€499.95 / $429) and sporting a refreshed, polished design inspired by the QC45. They feature well-padded faux leather ear cushions and smooth aluminum arms, making them the most comfortable headphones the reviewer has tested. Key technical pros include market-leading...Read more

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rtings.com
07/11/2023

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Wireless offer premium comfort and exceptional active noise cancellation (ANC) for commuting and office use, supported by a nearly 30-hour battery life and multi-device pairing. While featuring a warm, bass-heavy sound profile customizable via an app, they are prone to significant bass reduction if the ear pad seal breaks during movement. Cons...Read more

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kopfhoerer.de
13. Oktober 2023

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are a premium pair of closed-back Bluetooth 5.3 over-ear headphones that excel at everyday versatility and industry-leading noise cancellation. Weighing an ultra-light 250 grams and featuring a compact, foldable design with a premium build of aluminum, plastic, and synthetic leather, they provide exceptional comfort for long-term wear. In terms...Read more

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hifi.de
11/09/2025

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Generation) offer excellent over-ear performance that closely mirrors the original model, focusing on minor refinements rather than major technical leaps. This generation brings meaningful upgrades to practical features, including an extended battery life of up to 30 hours (up from 24), and the welcome addition of audio playback via a...Read more

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spiegel.de
07/10/2025

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen)Go review emphasizes that this iteration focuses primarily on internal software refinements and connectivity rather than a visual redesign. The core strengths of the headphones lie in their top-tier active noise cancellation (ANC), which effectively silences low-frequency sounds like airplane engines during long flights. Additionally, they...Read more

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stereo.de
21/11/2024

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones stand out primarily for their industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), sharing the top spot in the market alongside Sony's flagship model. The review praises its passive shielding and notes that the ANC achieves complete silence without altering the sound signature. Additional pros highlighted in the text include an effective...Read more

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hifi.de
19/10/2023

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are Bose’s premium over-ear ANC model designed to blend the sleek aesthetic of the Headphones 700 with the folding functionality of the QC45. Weighing 250 grams, they offer a highly comfortable fit with an improved headband clamping force and an increased battery life of up to 24 hours. The physical controls on the right ear cup feature two...Read more

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computerbild.de
9. Januar 2026

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Generation) over-ear headphones achieve a "very good" test rating of 1.4 from Computer Bild, marking a substantial upgrade over their predecessor by addressing prior weaknesses in battery life and sound profile. Weighing in at 250 grams (6 grams lighter than the first generation), the headphones retain a familiar elegant visual design but introduce a...Read more

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heise.de
25. Oktober 2024

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra represents the brand's flagship active noise-canceling (ANC) over-ear headphones, offering top-tier audio quality, exceptional comfort, and a lightweight 250-gram design that prevents pressure during extended use. It provides a warm, well-balanced sound profile with punchy bass that automatically self-adjusts via CustomTune technology, alongside modern...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
16/09/2025

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Generation) earn a 5/5 rating as a highly refined but structurally conservative update to their 2023 predecessor. Retaining the exact same weight (252g), dimensions, and design, the exterior only changes with the addition of polished mirror-like metal hinges and an embedded glossy logo. Key functional upgrades include a faster 7-second...Read more

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galaxus.fr
14/11/2024

The Galaxus review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra highlights industry-leading active noise cancellation as a major pro, effectively silencing intense, busy environments. However, a notable con is a perceptible low-level internal buzzing sound when the headphones are used for silence without audio playback. The headphones are praised for their robust build and exceptional comfort,...Read more

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capital.fr
13/02/2024

The Bose QuietComfort UltraGo review on Capital.fr provides a detailed assessment of the premium headphones, scoring them 4.2 out of 5 stars overall. The reviewer notes that while the headphones succeed in reviving the classic, highly comfortable, foldable design of the original QuietComfort lineage to replace the Headphones 700, they face serious hurdles due to a steep €500 launch...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
09/11/2023

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (QC Ultra Headphones) serves as the flagship successor to the Headphones 700, introducing a conventional, foldable design heavily inspired by the QC45. Weighing 252 grams, the headphones deliver exceptional comfort with plush, memory-foam ear cushions wrapped in leatherette and a highly flexible headband that prevents harsh clamping, making them ideal for...Read more

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frandroid.com
24/06/2025

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are a premium, circum-aural wireless headset that excels in comfort and active noise cancellation (ANC). Weighing 250 grams, the headphones feature a clever, foldable design built with a mix of synthetic leather, aluminum, and plastic. Its standout feature is its world-class ANC, which establishes a quiet "bubble" by effectively dampening...Read more

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geektopia.es
07/12/2023

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offer exceptional active noise cancellation (ANC) and outstanding overall comfort, delivering a highly refined design with soft synthetic leather ear pads and a lightweight 253 g frame. A standout feature is the new immersive spatial audio tech, which opens up the soundstage and reveals previously masked details in two distinct modes ("still"...Read more

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topesdegama.com
26/06/2025

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra over-ear headphones deliver exceptional, world-class active noise cancellation that effectively eliminates external distractions like traffic, public transit, and office chatter. The audio experience is highly praised for its warmth, balance, and depth, further enhanced by CustomTune technology which calibrates the sound to the unique shape of the user's...Read more

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avpasion.com
26/04/2025

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are premium, compact, and lightweight over-ear headphones that deliver high-quality construction with metal accents and soft synthetic leather. They feature an exceptional active noise cancellation (ANC) system that stands out as arguably the best on the market, performing brilliantly even in loud environments like airports. In terms of audio...Read more

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evosmart.it
02/12/2024

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds offer an exceptional, bass-heavy audio profile and industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) that seamlessly filters out external sounds without altering the music quality. Designed for an ergonomic and comfortable fit during extended use, they feature a minimalist app for quick equalization, practical touch controls, and broad codec...Read more

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tg24.sky.it
26/11/2024

The Sky TG24 review outlines the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones as a high-end audio device blending refined design with advanced custom technology. Retailing at a recommended price of 464.95 euros, the headphones come in black, smoke white, and sand color options. Key functionalities highlighted in the text include the proprietary CustomTune system, which shapes audio output...Read more

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digitec.ch
15/11/2024

The Digitec review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra highlights a premium design with high-quality materials, including durable aluminum and comfortable, replaceable ear cushions. Performance highlights include industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC), natural-sounding transparency mode, and superior, detailed sound quality across various music genres. Despite the praise, the...Read more

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pocketmags.com
01/09/2024

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones serve as the brand's premium flagship wireless over-ear headphones, sporting a launch price of £450 that places them in direct competition with high-end models like the Apple AirPods Max, Sony WH-1000XM5, and Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e. Weighing 250 grams, a standout feature of these headphones is their hinged, fold-flat design, making them...Read more

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pocketmags.com
01/09/2025

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones review from the September 2025 issue of What Hi-Fi? highlights the flagship over-ears as an attractive, premium option priced at £349. A major pro emphasized in the review is the design's comfort and portability; the headphones utilize metal for the arms and yokes paired with plush pleather, allowing them to fold flat with functional hinges...Read more

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consumentenbond.nl
19/04/2026

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are highlighted by the Dutch consumer association, Consumentenbond, as premium, over-ear wireless headphones designed to effectively silence the outside world. Retailing at a starting price of €276, they offer a robust feature set tailored for commuters and travelers, including an integrated microphone for hands-free calling and convenient...Read more

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test-aankoop.be
19/04/2026

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra HeadphonesGo review from Testaankoop outlines a highly capable, premium pair of wireless over-ear headphones designed primarily for daily commutes and quiet listening. A major standout feature highlighted in the specifications is its class-leading active noise cancelling (ANC) capability. It comes equipped with a dedicated transparency mode—allowing users...Read more

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id.nl
31/10/2023

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are praised for their luxurious, lightweight design and exceptional comfort, featuring soft ear cushions and robust, foldable construction. Key pros include high-end build quality and effective portability at 250 grams. Active Noise Cancellation is described as industry-leading, paired with "Bose Immersive Audio" that creates a wider...Read more

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global.techradar.com
28/02/2024

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offer exceptional, lively sound quality with a rich, precise bass and parallel-angled 35mm drivers that deliver highly detailed audio. Their standout feature is a top-tier active noise-cancelling (ANC) system that effectively shuts out external surroundings, alongside customizable sound modes via the Bose Music app and "Immersive Audio" for...Read more

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techpulse.be
03/03/2026

The TechPulse review confirms the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Generation as an ANC market leader, highlighting exceptional long-term wearing comfort, a 250-gram lightweight design, and superior sound quality with tightly controlled bass and precise instrument separation. Despite these strengths, the headset's premium feel is slightly compromised by a creaking hinge mechanism, and...Read more

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tweakers.net
26/04/2025

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offer top-tier Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), exceptional physical comfort for long sessions, and improved sound quality with new Immersive Audio features. Users report high-quality build materials and seamless multi-device connection functionality. YouTube·6 However, the headphones suffer from significant software instability, with a...Read more

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