Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
EditWorld-class noise cancellation with AI-enhanced ANC, Immersive Audio spatial sound, CustomTune personalization, and up to 6 hours battery life.
Our Verdict
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are the undisputed champions of noise cancellation. If blocking out the world is your priority—whether for flights, commutes, or focused work—nothing else comes close. The premium sound quality and innovative features like CustomTune and Immersive Audio justify the high price for audio enthusiasts. Battery life is the only notable compromise, but for many, that tradeoff is absolutely worth it.
What We Like
- Best-in-class ANC (34dB low-freq, 39dB high-freq reduction)
- CustomTune automatically calibrates to your ears
- Immersive Audio spatial sound technology
- Exceptionally rich, detailed sound quality
- AI-enhanced noise suppression for calls
- Comfortable secure fit for long sessions
- Wireless charging included (2nd Gen)
- Multi-point Bluetooth connectivity
- Adjustable ANC slider for fine control
- IPX4 water and sweat resistance
What Could Be Better
- Premium price at $299
- Battery life only 6 hours (4 with Immersive Audio)
- Bulkier design than some competitors
- Immersive Audio drains battery faster
- No lossless audio codec support
Specifications
| Driver | Custom Bose transducers |
| ANC Performance | 34dB (low-freq), 39dB (high-freq) |
| Battery (Earbuds) | 6 hours (4 with Immersive Audio) |
| Battery (Total) | 24 hours with case |
| Charging | USB-C, Wireless Qi |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 with multipoint |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 |
| Weight | 6.24g per earbud |
| Ear Tips | S/M/L stability bands included |
| Special Features | CustomTune, Immersive Audio, AI call enhancement |
Full Review
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Review: The Noise Cancellation King
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds deliver what many consider the best active noise cancellation available in any earbuds, period. Combined with Bose's signature rich sound and innovative Immersive Audio technology, these premium earbuds are built for audiophiles who demand the absolute best.
Unrivaled Active Noise Cancellation
Bose's ANC technology is in a league of its own. Testing shows the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds can reduce low-frequency noise by up to 34dB (effectively cutting perceived loudness by 90%) and high-frequency noise above 1kHz by up to 39dB. This is outstanding performance typically only seen in over-ear headphones.
The second generation adds an AI-driven algorithm layered on top of the already excellent CustomTune system, handling sudden noises like crying babies and engine rumble more comprehensively than ever before.
CustomTune Audio Calibration
Every time you put on the earbuds, they play a brief calibration tone that measures how your unique ear shape modifies sound. The CustomTune technology then automatically adjusts audio and ANC settings for your specific ears, ensuring optimal performance regardless of ear canal shape or size.
Immersive Audio: Sound That Surrounds You
Bose's Immersive Audio creates a multi-dimensional soundscape that places instruments and vocals in distinct positions around you. It's like having a personal concert hall in your ears. While it does reduce battery life to 4 hours, the spatial experience is genuinely impressive for music, movies, and gaming.
Premium Sound Quality
Reviewers consistently describe these as "the most sonically exuberant" earbuds available. Crystalline treble sparkles above rich midrange frequencies and warm, resonant bass. They excel with every music genre but particularly shine with bass-heavy tracks and orchestral arrangements.
2nd Gen Improvements
The newest generation adds wireless charging from the box, seamless multi-point connectivity, and improved AI-based call quality with better background noise suppression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bose QuietComfort Ultra better than AirPods Pro 2?
For pure noise cancellation, yes—Bose's ANC is measurably superior. AirPods Pro 2 win for Apple ecosystem integration and features like Adaptive Audio. Sound quality is excellent on both, with Bose being warmer and AirPods more neutral.
What is Immersive Audio and should I use it?
Immersive Audio is Bose's spatial sound technology that creates a 3D soundscape. It's impressive for music and movies but reduces battery life from 6 to 4 hours. Use it when you want an enhanced experience and have charging available.
How does CustomTune work?
When you put on the earbuds, they play a brief tone and measure how your ear shape affects the sound. The system then automatically adjusts EQ and ANC settings for your specific ears, ensuring optimal performance.
Can I use these for phone calls?
Yes, the 2nd generation has improved AI-based background noise suppression for calls. Voice quality is excellent in most environments, though very loud settings may still pose challenges.
Are they worth $299?
If noise cancellation and premium sound quality are your priorities, absolutely. No other earbuds match the ANC performance. However, if you primarily use Apple devices and want smart features, AirPods Pro 2 at $249 may be a better value.
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