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The Sonos Ace Ultra improves on the original Sonos Ace in four main areas: sound, Sonos integration, comfort, and UK launch price. Reviewers consistently rate the sound and noise cancelling as the biggest step up. The gains are real but not universal. The original Ace has also dropped in price since launch, so the value gap depends on where you shop and which features you need.
The four differences at a glance
The table below sets the two models side by side using only figures that the cited sources report. Where a source does not give a value for one model, the cell says so.
| Feature | Original Sonos Ace | Sonos Ace Ultra | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch price, UK | £449 (2024 launch) | £399 (2026 launch) | What Hi-Fi? comparison |
| Launch price, US | $449 (2024 launch) | $449 (2026 launch) | What Hi-Fi? comparison |
| Launch price, Australia | AU$699 (2024 launch) | AU$699 (2026 launch) | What Hi-Fi? comparison |
| Price at What Hi-Fi? publication | £299 / $299 / AU$449 | Not stated in the comparison | What Hi-Fi? comparison |
| Battery life, ANC on | 30 hours | Up to 35 hours (manufacturer rating) | What Hi-Fi? review; Sonos product page |
| Microphones | Eight | Ten | TechRadar review; Sonos product page |
| Active noise cancelling | Baseline | Sonos claims up to 2x more ANC at frequencies up to 65 Hz | Sonos product page |
| Headphone Linking | Not included (the Ultra adds it) | Available as an Early Access feature | What Hi-Fi? comparison; Sonos product page |
1. Sound: more power, control and detail
This is the improvement reviewers talk about most. What Hi-Fi? found the original lacking in spaciousness, dynamics, clarity and insight. Its reviewer, senior staff writer Harry McKerrell, wrote: “These headphones sound far more self-assured than their de facto predecessors, with a rich, full-bodied sound that brings a muscular, confident presence to the tunes we feed them.” The publication describes the Ultra as more powerful, assertive and self-assured.
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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsTechRadar’s direct comparison reaches a similar conclusion from a different angle. It describes a broader and more organised soundstage, better overall balance, controlled bass and more detailed treble. Both outlets are reporting listening impressions, not laboratory measurements, so treat the gains as a consistent pattern in subjective reviews rather than precise numbers.
#1 Best Overall
- HEADPHONES | Featuring Dolby Atmos.
- SPATIAL AUDIO | Enjoy an industry-leading Dolby Atmos experience with dynamic head tracking.
- LOSSLESS AUDIO | Stream lossless audio over Bluetooth or via USB-C.
- ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION | World-class ANC neutralizes external sounds for maximum immersion.
- ALL-DAY COMFORT | Bespoke fit with plush memory foam, soft vegan leather, and a design that suits all head shapes, hairstyles, and accessories.
The sound improvement does not make the Ultra the best-sounding option at every price. What Hi-Fi? says dynamics and overall insight still do not trouble the Sony WH-1000XM6 or the Sennheiser HDB 630. TechRadar says some rivals edge the Ultra on music detail or soundstage. If critical listening is your main priority, compare the Ultra with these models directly.
Sources: What Hi-Fi? comparison and TechRadar review.
2. Sonos integration: Headphone Linking
Both models support TV audio and TrueCinema. The Ultra adds Headphone Linking, which lets you transfer audio between compatible Sonos equipment and the headphones. Sonos labels this an Early Access feature. It is opt-in and subject to change, so its behaviour may shift in future software updates.
Rank #2
- INCREDIBLE SOUND: Custom acoustic platform delivers rich, balanced audio for music, calls and everyday listening.
- LOSSLESS AUDIO SUPPORT: USB-C lossless audio and sound profiles optimize music quality across devices and environments. Additional option to use the 3.5 mm cable for a standard analog experience.
- ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLING (ANC): block distractions at work, on flights or during your daily commute. Or use Transparency mode to let the sounds of your environment mix in with your music.
- SEAMLESS WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY: One-touch pairing with Apple & Android for easy switching across devices.
- SPATIAL AUDIO IMMERSION: Personalized dynamic head tracking, 360-degree sound for movies, music and immersive everyday listening.
To use Headphone Linking, you need:
- A compatible Sonos speaker
- A Wi-Fi connection
- The Sonos app
What Hi-Fi? lists the compatible devices under the Sonos 27 software release as Arc Ultra, Ray, Beam (Gen 2), Beam Ultra, Era 100, Era 300, Move 2, Play and Roam 2. Do not assume that every Sonos product works with Headphone Linking. Check the device list in the Sonos app or on the Sonos product page before buying for this feature.
3. Comfort: a plusher fit, not a redesign
The two models are similar in overall form and size, so this is not a dramatic change in shape. The Ultra’s main comfort change is its upgraded “Rebound” memory-foam cushions, which What Hi-Fi? describes as aiming for a plusher fit. The Sonos product page lists replacement ear cushions for the Ultra, which helps if the pads wear out over time.
Comfort depends on head size, clamping force and how long you wear the headphones, and the cited reviews do not test this across a range of listeners. Treat the cushion upgrade as a probable improvement rather than a guarantee.
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
4. Launch price: UK saving, but no US or Australian discount
At launch, the Ultra’s UK price was £50 lower than the original’s (£399 against £449). The US and Australian launch prices were equal ($449 and AU$699). The original was launched in 2024 and the Ultra in 2026, so these figures reflect two different launch periods.
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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The original’s street price has since fallen. What Hi-Fi? reported it at £299, $299 and AU$449 when it published its comparison. These are dated observations, not price guarantees. Sonos’s US product page displayed $449 for the Ultra when accessed on 2026-10-07. Check current prices at your retailer before deciding.
| Market | Original Ace, launch (2024) | Ace Ultra, launch (2026) | Original Ace, reported later |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK | £449 | £399 | £299 |
| US | $449 | $449 | $299 |
| Australia | AU$699 | AU$699 | AU$449 |
In the US, the Ultra’s launch price matches the original’s, so it is not the cheaper option at the same stage. The original’s discounted price makes it the better value if you do not need Headphone Linking or the Ultra’s sound changes.
Rank #4
- Intelligent Noise Cancellation Adapts with You: Our Nothing headphone 1 feature advanced Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, powered by next-gen processors and adaptive mics, to block out distractions. Smart Adaptive Mode automatically adjusts to your environment, while Transparency Mode lets in ambient sound when you need awareness. Personalize your experience with four ANC settings (High/Mid/Low/Adaptive) for truly focused, crystal-clear listening
- Nothing x KEF Headphone (1) : Nothing Headphone (1) experience audio perfected through a unique partnership with British audio legend KEF. Leveraging over 60 years of acoustic expertise, Nothing Noise Cancelling Headphone delivers a naturally balanced sound stage where every note shines as artists intended. Enjoy unparalleled flexibility with Hi-Res Audio support including LDAC technology, USB-C audio, and a 3.5mm jack. Dual Connection capability lets you seamlessly switch between two devices
- Uninterrupted Audio with Immersive Sound: Engineered for all-day use, Nothing Headphones 1 deliver up to 80 hours of playtime (35 hours with ANC on). A quick 5-minute charge provides 5 hours of power. Coupled with this endurance is a lossless audio experience, Nothing Wireless Headphones offer Spatial Audio with head tracking and Hi-Res Wireless certification for exceptional clarity and a deeply immersive sound stage
- Sink In, Take Control: Designed for all-day wear, Nothing Bluetooth Wireless Headphone ergonomic frame and memory foam cushions provide a comfortable, secure fit. The Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphone features intuitive roller and paddle interface puts volume adjustment, playback, and noise mode switching at your fingertips, with full customization available in the Nothing X app. This thoughtful integration of form and function ensures a continuously surround sound Journey
- Explore the Nothing X app: Craft your unique audio profile with the Nothing X app's advanced 8-band equalizer.Tailor your Nothing Headphone 1 with Adaptive ANC settings and enhance depth with the Ultra Bass mode. Customize your Bluetooth active noise canceling headphones' touch buttons to execute your most-used commands instantly
Noise cancelling and battery: the evidence is thinner
Sonos says the Ultra delivers up to 2x more active noise cancelling than the original Ace at frequencies up to 65 Hz. This is a manufacturer claim. It does not apply equally at all frequencies or in all environments. The Ultra uses ten microphones, against eight on the original, according to TechRadar. What Hi-Fi? found marked ANC improvements and a narrower gap to Sony and Bose rivals. It also cautioned that outside noise is reduced, not removed.
Sonos rates battery life at up to 35 hours with ANC on. What Hi-Fi? compares this with 30 hours for the original. Sonos says actual battery life depends on usage, settings and environmental factors. Rapid charging gives up to three hours of listening from a three-minute charge, according to Sonos.
Trade-offs to weigh
- Portability: TechRadar says the Ultra is not foldable and identifies the Sony WH-1000XM6 as more compact for travel.
- Sonos ecosystem: Headphone Linking depends on a compatible Sonos speaker, Wi-Fi and the Sonos app. Without a Sonos speaker, you gain little from this feature.
- Feature status: Headphone Linking is Early Access and may change. Price, accessory listings and feature availability can change without notice.
Which model to choose
- Choose the Ultra if you want the stronger sound, the larger ANC claim and Headphone Linking with compatible Sonos gear.
- Choose the original Ace if you can buy it at its reduced price and do not need Headphone Linking.
- Consider the Sony WH-1000XM6 or another rival if portability or critical music detail matters more to you than the Sonos features.
The verdict
The Sonos Ace Ultra is a clear step up from the original Ace in sound, Sonos integration and comfort, with a UK launch price advantage. It is not a universal best buy. The original’s lower current price, the Ultra’s lack of folding design and rivals’ strengths in specific areas mean the right choice depends on your priorities and your local price.
Sources: What Hi-Fi? review, What Hi-Fi? comparison, TechRadar review, Sonos product page.
Quick Recap
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.
