The Trend Verdict
🔥 #34 in Noise-Cancelling Headphones · New

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

Bose
4.1
Best-in-class ANC comfort and refinement at flagship price.
$369 → As of Jul 13, 2026
AI-estimated. See how we score. How we score

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01 / Spec

Top features

TypeOver-ear, closed-back
Driver Size40mm
AncActive (adaptive)

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) is a flagship over-ear ANC headphone featuring 40mm drivers with a balanced, consumer-friendly sound signature. Industry-leading noise cancellation rivals the Sony WH-1000XM5, with exceptional performance on low-frequency drone and cabin noise. Battery life reaches 30 hours with ANC enabled, supported by quick-charge capability. The design prioritizes all-day comfort with a lightweight build and plush ear-cup padding, though the headband clamp is moderately firm. Features include Bluetooth 5.3, LDAC codec support, multipoint connectivity for seamless device switching, and an intuitive touch-control interface with a companion app for EQ adjustments. Available in Black (and other colours). Best for: discerning listeners who prioritize comfort and ANC performance over audio coloration; frequent travelers and commuters. The $369 street price (18% off list) positions it in the premium tier—justified by heritage and ANC prowess, but not exceptional value against mid-tier rivals.

02 / Signals

Why it's hot

Class-leading ANC and 30-hour battery in supremely comfortable over-ears.

  • Value for money 51
  • Review rating & velocity 100
  • Community sentiment 96
  • Brand reputation 100
  • Search heat 95
  • Est. return & defect rate 95
03 / Verdict

Pros & cons

Pros

  • Best-in-class active noise cancellation
  • Exceptional all-day comfort and fit
  • 30+ hour battery life with ANC on
  • Multipoint Bluetooth connectivity
  • Premium sound tuning and LDAC codec
  • Robust build and Bose brand heritage
  • Intuitive touch controls and app

Cons

  • Premium pricing ($349–$369) limits value perception
  • Moderate clamp force may feel tight initially
  • Sound signature is consumer-tuned, not audiophile-neutral
  • Non-folding design requires a bulky carrying case
  • Touch controls can be finicky in cold weather
05 / Compare

Compare the best alternative

One useful head-to-head in Noise-Cancelling Headphones, with the rows most likely to separate the contenders.

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This pick Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
#19 in Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Trend leader Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones (Renewed)
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones (Renewed)
#1 in Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Noise Cancelling
Class-leading, silences cabin/engine noise Class-leading noise cancellation Best ANC
Sound
Balanced, consumer-tuned with good clarity Premium audio, balanced tuning
Comfort
Plush padding, lightweight, all-day wearable Comfortable, some heat on long sessions
06 / Rivals

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07 / Variations

Other colors

08 / Browse

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