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Bose QuietComfort vs QuietComfort Ultra: Which Noise-Canceling Headphones Are Right for You?
Bose has long been the gold standard in noise-canceling headphones, their QuietComfort line a perennial best-seller.
But with the arrival of the QuietComfort Ultra, the question arises: has the champ been dethroned? How do these two models compare, and which is the right fit for your listening needs?
Nextbop’s comparison breaks down the Bose QuietComfort and QuietComfort Ultra, examining their features, audio quality, noise cancellation, design, and price to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Decision Guide
Bose QuietComfort
Pros: Excellent noise cancellation, very good audio quality, comfortable and lightweight, traditional button controls, more affordable ($239), longer battery life.
Cons: Lacks ActiveSense and Immersive Audio, older Bluetooth version, design less premium than Ultra.
Choose the QuietComfort if:
- You prioritize a lighter and potentially more comfortable fit.
- You want excellent noise cancellation at a more affordable price.
- You prefer tactile buttons over a touch strip.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Pros: Best-in-class noise cancellation (with ActiveSense), immersive spatial audio (Immersive Audio), premium design, touch controls, newer Bluetooth version.
Cons: Higher price ($359), Immersive Audio may not appeal to everyone, shorter battery life with Immersive Audio enabled.
Choose the QuietComfort Ultra if:
- You’re willing to pay a higher price.
- You want the best possible noise cancellation.
- You’re interested in experiencing Immersive Audio.
- You prefer a more premium design and feel.
Feature Comparison
Here’s a breakdown of the key features offered by both the QuietComfort and QuietComfort Ultra:
Key Differences
ActiveSense: The QuietComfort Ultra features ActiveSense, which only activates ANC when a loud or sudden noise occurs nearby, allowing you to hear your surroundings while also blocking out unexpected bursts of noise .
Immersive Audio: The QuietComfort Ultra offers Immersive Audio, Bose’s take on spatial audio, which presents sound in a 3D environment with Still and Motion modes .
Controls: The QuietComfort Ultra uses a capacitive touch strip for volume control and a multi-function button for playback and calls, while the QuietComfort has standard tactile buttons .
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Controls
Audio Quality
Both models deliver excellent sound quality, but there are subtle differences.
The QuietComfort Ultra boasts a more versatile soundstage with CustomTune technology that fine-tunes audio based on your ear’s unique properties . It also supports aptX Adaptive for higher-quality Bluetooth playback on Android devices .
While Immersive Audio can enhance the listening experience for some content, it can also sound off with others and reduces battery life .
The QuietComfort headphones offer a noteworthy upgrade from the QC45 with deeper bass and more natural sound.
Noise Cancellation
Both models feature Bose’s renowned noise-canceling technology, but the QuietComfort Ultra takes it a step further.
With larger earcups and more effective ANC, it excels at blocking out a wider range of frequencies, including background rumbles and the sounds of public transportation.
The QuietComfort provides excellent noise cancellation as well, effectively silencing jet noise in an airplane cabin.
Design and Comfort
Both models are comfortable to wear, thanks to their plush padding and lightweight design.
However, the QuietComfort Ultra has a slightly more premium look and feel with more cushioning in the headband and thicker earcups .
The QuietComfort Ultra also has a more modern design that meshes the QC45s with the sleekness of the Bose Noise-Cancelling 700.
Conclusion
Ultimately, both the Bose QuietComfort and QuietComfort Ultra are excellent noise-canceling headphones. By carefully considering the features, audio quality, noise cancellation, design, and price, you can choose the model that best suits your needs and preferences.
QuietComfort FAQ
How much are the Bose QuietComfort Ultra?
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra are priced at $359. Check price on Amazon.
Do Bose QuietComfort have ANC?
Yes, both the Bose QuietComfort and QuietComfort Ultra headphones have Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
Do Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones have multipoint connection?
Yes, the QuietComfort Ultra supports multipoint pairing, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously.
How to pair Bose QuietComfort headphones?
Pairing instructions can vary slightly between models. Generally, you’ll need to put the headphones into pairing mode (often by holding a button) and then select them from your device’s Bluetooth settings. Consult the included manual or the Bose Connect app for specific instructions for your model.
How to turn on Bose QuietComfort headphones?
Typically, there’s a power button located on one of the earcups. Press and hold it to turn the headphones on. Again, check your manual for model-specific details.
How to use Bose QuietComfort headphones?
The headphones will have controls for volume, playback, and often call management.
These may be buttons or touch controls, depending on the model. Consult your manual for specifics.
How to turn off Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones?
Similar to turning them on, there’s usually a power button. Press and hold it to turn the headphones off. Refer to your manual.
Are Bose QuietComfort headphones waterproof?
No, Bose QuietComfort headphones are not waterproof. They may be sweat-resistant, but they are not designed for submersion in water.
Check the specific IP rating of your model for details on water resistance.
Do Bose QuietComfort have a mic?
Yes, both the QuietComfort and QuietComfort Ultra have built-in microphones for phone calls and voice assistant commands.
Written by Sebastien Helary
Sebastien Helary is the founder and principal writer for Nextbop.com, a premier destination for contemporary jazz enthusiasts. His insightful contributions have also graced the pages of Time Out Montreal and Cult Montreal. Outside the realm of music and food journalism, Sebastien’s personal musings and artistry are showcased at Helaryous.com.
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