Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds in black

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) Review

9.2
Frequent travelers who prioritize maximum noise cancellation

Bose QC Ultra Earbuds offer unmatched noise cancellation in earbud form. If blocking out the world is your priority, nothing else comes close.

Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera
Updated 03-Feb-26

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Best-in-class noise cancellation
  • Immersive spatial audio experience
  • CustomTune personalizes sound to your ears
  • Excellent Aware mode transparency
  • Stable and secure fit with stability bands

Cons

  • Larger size may not fit smaller ears
  • Battery drains faster with Immersive Audio
  • No multipoint connection
  • Case is bulkier than competitors

Overview

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds deliver the most effective noise cancellation available in true wireless earbuds. Building on decades of ANC expertise, Bose has created earbuds that genuinely silence the world, making them essential for frequent travelers and anyone working in noisy environments.

When blocking out distractions matters most, nothing else comes close.

Features Deep-Dive

Unmatched Noise Cancellation

Bose's ANC technology remains the gold standard. The QC Ultra Earbuds block more ambient noise than any competitor, particularly excelling at low-frequency rumble (airplane engines, HVAC systems). The difference is immediately noticeable when switching from other premium earbuds.

CustomTune Sound Personalization

During initial setup, tones play while microphones measure your ear canal acoustics. CustomTune then optimizes ANC performance and sound quality for your specific ear shape. The result is better noise cancellation and more accurate audio reproduction than generic profiles.

Immersive Audio

Bose's spatial audio creates a remarkably wide soundstage that extends beyond your head. For movies and spatial audio music, the effect is genuinely immersive. Note that Immersive Audio mode reduces battery life from 6 hours to 4 hours.

Pricing Analysis

At $299, Bose matches Sony's flagship pricing. You're paying specifically for the best noise cancellation, if that's your priority, the price is justified. Those prioritizing sound quality over ANC might find better value elsewhere.

Who Is This For?

Bose QC Ultra Earbuds work best for:

  • Frequent travelers on planes, trains, and in airports
  • Open office workers needing focus in noisy environments
  • Commuters on public transportation
  • Noise-sensitive users who need maximum isolation

Who Should NOT Use This

Bose QC Ultra Earbuds might not be the right choice if:

  • Small ears: Larger size may not fit comfortably
  • Audiophile priorities: Sony WF-1000XM5 sound better
  • Multi-device use: No multipoint connection
  • Compact case needed: Case is bulkier than competitors

Bottom Line

Bose QC Ultra Earbuds are the clear choice when noise cancellation is your top priority. Nothing blocks more noise. If you need to focus in noisy environments or travel frequently, these earbuds deliver unmatched performance.

FAQ

Are they better than AirPods Pro 2 for ANC?

Yes, noticeably better noise cancellation, especially for low frequencies. AirPods Pro 2 integrate better with Apple devices though.

How is the fit?

Stability bands help secure fit, but the larger size challenges smaller ears. Try before buying if possible.

Why no multipoint?

Bose hasn't added this feature yet. You can only connect to one device at a time.

Is Immersive Audio worth the battery trade-off?

For movies and spatial audio content, yes. For music, the standard mode sounds great and lasts longer.

Who Is Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) Best For?

Frequent travelers who prioritize maximum noise cancellation

The Bottom Line

Bose QC Ultra Earbuds offer unmatched noise cancellation in earbud form. If blocking out the world is your priority, nothing else comes close.

Buy on Amazon

Key Specs

Price$299
WebsiteVisit Site

Scoring Breakdown

Sound Quality25% weight
9.3

Audio fidelity, frequency response, bass quality, clarity, and overall listening experience for the compact driver size.

Noise Cancellation25% weight
9.6

ANC effectiveness given the in-ear form factor, transparency mode quality, adaptability, and seal consistency.

Fit & Comfort20% weight
9.0

Ear tip variety, secure fit during activity, weight, comfort during extended wear, and fit across different ear shapes.

Features15% weight
9.1

Battery life (buds + case), fast charging, multipoint, spatial audio, touch controls, app features, and water resistance.

Call Quality15% weight
9.0

Microphone clarity, wind noise handling, voice isolation during calls, and performance in noisy environments.

Compare With Another Product

Back to Best In-Ear Noise-Canceling Headphones