The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Choose the Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) if you want the lower-priced option and do not need the Ultra’s premium extras. Choose the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) if lossless USB-C audio, Cinema Mode, and Bose’s updated adaptive noise-cancellation features are worth paying more for. The right comparison is generation-specific: the 2023 QuietComfort and the 2025 Ultra (2nd Gen) are not the same pair as the newer standard QuietComfort (2nd Gen).
Which QuietComfort models are being compared?
“QuietComfort” can refer to more than one Bose headphone. The standard QuietComfort Headphones launched in 2023, and Bose announced the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) on September 10, 2025, with availability from October 2, 2025. A separate standard QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) is also covered in 2026 comparison reporting. This guide compares those two second-generation models.
Before buying, confirm that a listing names the generation you intend to purchase. A listing simply called “QuietComfort” may refer to the 2023 model rather than the standard second-generation headphones.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsWhat are the practical differences?
| Feature | QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) | QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning | Standard, value-oriented model | Premium, feature-led model |
| USB-C audio | Lossless USB-C audio is not listed in the cited comparison. | Bose highlights lossless USB-C audio. |
| Spatial and video features | Immersive modes are included in the reported battery figures; Cinema Mode is not listed. | Includes Cinema Mode, which Bose says is designed to make video sound more lifelike and dialogue clearer. |
| Noise control | Quiet and Aware modes, plus ActiveSense, according to What Hi-Fi? | Quiet and Aware modes, plus ActiveSense, according to What Hi-Fi? Bose says the second-generation Ultra has an updated adaptive noise-cancellation algorithm. |
| Wireless codec | AAC and SBC, according to What Hi-Fi? | aptX Adaptive, according to What Hi-Fi? |
| Volume control | Physical buttons | Touch volume strip |
| Battery, published figures | Up to 24 hours with ANC on; 18 hours in immersive modes. | Up to 45 hours with ANC off, 30 hours with ANC on, or 23 hours with Immersive Audio. |
| US launch price | $359, as reported by What Hi-Fi? in 2026. | $449 in Bose’s September 2025 US announcement; What Hi-Fi? reports $450 as the launch price. |
Battery figures are published specifications reported by What Hi-Fi?, not measurements made for this article. Conditions matter: the Ultra’s longest figure is with ANC off, while its Immersive Audio figure is lower than its ANC-on figure. Do not compare the headline maximum alone with another model’s ANC-on runtime.
#1 Best Overall
- BREAKTHROUGH SPATIALIZED AUDIO: Super immersive sound spatializes everything, taking the music out of your head and placing it in front of you to push the boundaries of listening.
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Enjoy Bose’s best noise cancellation for headphones with Quiet Mode, turn on Aware Mode to hear more of your surroundings, or combine noise cancellation and Bose Immersive Audio with Immersion Mode.
- NEW CINEMA MODE: Bring video content to life like never before with Cinema Mode; spatialize and balance background sound and sound effects for movie-like immersion wherever you go.
- USB VOICE: Use the built-in mic to enjoy high-quality two-way communication for phone calls and video conferencing while connected via USB-C.
- ENHANCED LONG-LASTING BATTERY: Up to 30 hours of play time (23 with Immersive Audio)* keeps the music playing through even the longest listening sessions. Charge your headphones with the included USB-C cord and listen to music at the same time.
Bose described the Ultra’s additions in its 2025 announcement as upgrades to audio and noise cancellation, including “lossless USB-C audio,” a new adaptive noise-cancellation algorithm, and Cinema Mode. Those are manufacturer descriptions, not independent measurements of sound quality or noise reduction.
Which model should you buy?
Choose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) for value
The standard second-generation QuietComfort is the more sensible choice if your priorities are noise-control modes, wireless listening, and a lower purchase price rather than the Ultra’s specific premium features. Compare current retailer prices before deciding: the $359 figure is a reported US launch price, not a current-price guarantee.
Rank #2
- BREAKTHROUGH SPATIALIZED AUDIO: Super immersive sound spatializes everything, taking the music out of your head and placing it in front of you to push the boundaries of listening.
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Enjoy Bose’s best noise cancellation for headphones with Quiet Mode, turn on Aware Mode to hear more of your surroundings, or combine noise cancellation and Bose Immersive Audio with Immersion Mode.
- NEW CINEMA MODE: Bring video content to life like never before with Cinema Mode; spatialize and balance background sound and sound effects for movie-like immersion wherever you go.
- USB VOICE: Use the built-in mic to enjoy high-quality two-way communication for phone calls and video conferencing while connected via USB-C.
- ENHANCED LONG-LASTING BATTERY: Up to 30 hours of play time (23 with Immersive Audio)* keeps the music playing through even the longest listening sessions. Charge your headphones with the included USB-C cord and listen to music at the same time.
Choose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) for its extras
Pay more for the Ultra if you expect to use its lossless USB-C audio connection, Cinema Mode, or aptX Adaptive support. Bose also says it refreshed the Ultra’s premium materials and updated its adaptive noise-cancellation algorithm. The value of those changes depends on your devices and listening habits; the available comparison does not establish that the Ultra sounds better in every use case.
Recommended Free Tools
Use live prices to make the final call
Bose announced a US launch price of $449 for the Ultra (2nd Gen); What Hi-Fi? reports $450, a one-dollar difference between sources. What Hi-Fi? reports $359 as the standard model’s US launch price. These dated launch figures do not tell you what either pair costs now, and discounts can change which is the better value.
Rank #3
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Effortlessly combines noise cancellation technology with passive features so you can shut off the outside world, quiet distractions, and take music beyond the beat
- COMFORTABLE HEADPHONES: Plush over-ear cushions softly hug your ears, while a secure and comfortable padded band gently keeps your studio headphones in place for those extra-long listening sessions
- 2 LISTENING MODES: These wireless Bluetooth headphones feature Quiet and Aware Modes that let you toggle between full noise cancelling or full awareness of your surroundings for seamless sound control
- HIGH-FIDELITY AUDIO/EQ CONTROL: Supercharge your favorite tracks with high-fidelity audio and Adjustable EQ that puts you in control of the bass, mid-range, and treble for unmatched bold sound
- ALL DAY BATTERY LIFE: Bose QuietComfort wireless headphones provide up to 24 hours of battery on a single charge, plus a 15-minute charge via USB-C gives you up to 2.5 hours of additional play time
What independent testing establishes—and what it does not
What Hi-Fi?’s August 10, 2026 comparison says it had tested the Ultra (2nd Gen) but had not yet tested the standard QuietComfort (2nd Gen). That means its subjective listening assessment of the Ultra should not be treated as a direct head-to-head verdict. The published comparison does provide specifications and feature differences, but it does not establish which model sounds better in a controlled comparison.
For current model details, see Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) product page. Bose states there that the Ultra (2nd Gen) is not waterproof, so it is not a suitable choice for wet conditions.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- SPATIAL AUDIO HEADPHONES: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones with spatial audio give you an immersive experience that makes music feel more real; CustomTune technology offers personalized sound, shaped to you
- NOISE CANCELING HEADPHONES: These wireless noise cancelling headphones feature Quiet Mode, Aware Mode and Immersion Mode, which combines full noise cancellation and Bose Immersive Audio
- HEADPHONES WITH MIC: Microphones focus on the sound of your voice and the bluetooth headphones with microphone filter out background noise for the clearest phone calls of any Bose headphones
- COMFORTABLE HEADPHONES: Soft ear cushions hug your ears, the band spreads pressure evenly and elevated materials let you make a statement with these noise cancelling over-the-ear headphones
- WIRELESS HEADPHONES BLUETOOTH: Advanced Bluetooth 5.3 offers connection within 30 feet of your device; SimpleSync allows you to sync with a Bose smart soundbar so you can listen to TV at your own volume
Rank #4
- BREAKTHROUGH SPATIALIZED AUDIO: Super immersive sound spatializes everything, taking the music out of your head and placing it in front of you to push the boundaries of listening.
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Enjoy Bose’s best noise cancellation for headphones with Quiet Mode, turn on Aware Mode to hear more of your surroundings, or combine noise cancellation and Bose Immersive Audio with Immersion Mode.
- NEW CINEMA MODE: Bring video content to life like never before with Cinema Mode; spatialize and balance background sound and sound effects for movie-like immersion wherever you go.
- USB VOICE: Use the built-in mic to enjoy high-quality two-way communication for phone calls and video conferencing while connected via USB-C.
- ENHANCED LONG-LASTING BATTERY: Up to 30 hours of play time (23 with Immersive Audio)* keeps the music playing through even the longest listening sessions. Charge your headphones with the included USB-C cord and listen to music at the same time.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
