The Trend Verdict
Spec-by-spec

Head to head

Contenders from Noise-Cancelling Headphones, every metric lined up. The winning value in each row is outlined.

Bose QuietComfort Wireless ANC Headphones (Blue Dusk) Bose QuietComfort Wireless ANC Headphones (Blue Dusk) #2 in Noise-Cancelling Headphones
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Apple AirPods Max 2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones (Midnight) Apple AirPods Max 2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones (Midnight) #147 in Noise-Cancelling Headphones
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Price
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Rating
★★★★★
★★★★★
Category rank
#2
#147
Noise Cancelling
Strong, proven noise cancellation
Class-leading adaptive noise cancellation
Sound
Warm, consumer-friendly tuning
High-fidelity audio with personalized spatial tuning
Battery
24 hours with ANC on
20 hours with ANC (mid-range for category)
Comfort
Best-in-class all-day comfort
Memory foam, breathable mesh, light at 384g
Call Quality
Good microphone clarity
Solid microphone performance, Apple processing
Build Durability
Solid plastic and metal construction
Premium aluminum and textile construction
Value
$175 (51% discount)
Flagship performance at premium tier ($549)
Verdict
Best comfort-first ANC headphone
Best ANC headphones for Apple ecosystem devotees

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