Buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) if you want premium noise cancellation in a comfortable pair you can wear through a flight, commute or long workday. Their standout qualities are a soothing fit, effective control of surrounding noise and useful listening modes. This is a considered refinement rather than a radical redesign, though: the Sony WH-1000XM6 is a stronger fit for buyers who prioritize more detailed sound, extensive EQ or longer battery life.
Design and comfort
Bose keeps the familiar over-ear design, with soft ear cushions and controls that are straightforward once learned. A swipe on the right earcup adjusts volume, while physical buttons handle power, Bluetooth and other functions. Wearing detection can pause playback when the headphones come off, a small convenience that helps during interruptions.
Comfort is a particular strength. The cushioned fit makes these a good choice for extended listening, and their relatively roomy feel around the ears can be preferable to a more enclosing design. They fold for storage in the included case. The cushions are removable, which gives owners a practical replacement option over time, but the headphones are not waterproof. They are better suited to travel and desk use than sweaty workouts or wet weather.
At startup, Bose’s CustomTune system measures the sound around the wearer and adjusts the audio accordingly. That helps personalize the listening experience without requiring manual setup each time. The Bose app provides access to modes, equalizer settings, connections and updates; basic Bluetooth pairing does not depend on using the app.
Sound
The Bose delivers full, engaging sound that suits everyday playlists, films and podcasts. CustomTune helps tailor playback to the wearer, while the app’s EQ offers some control if the default balance is not quite right. It is not the most comprehensive tuning tool, however, and listeners who like to shape every part of the sound may find Sony’s adjustment options more appealing.
Bose’s Immersive Audio mode creates a more spacious, virtual presentation. It can make selected music or video feel less confined to the earcups, but the effect is a matter of taste rather than a universal upgrade. Cinema Mode is another option for video, with a presentation intended to make dialogue and sound feel more cinematic. Buyers who prefer a direct, conventional stereo mix can simply leave these modes off.
For wired listening, USB-C supports digital audio, including lossless playback at up to 16-bit/44.1 or 48 kHz with a compatible source. A 2.5mm headphone input is also available. Bluetooth codecs include SBC, AAC and aptX Adaptive-family support; some advanced features require a compatible device.
Noise cancellation
Noise control is the main reason to buy these headphones. Adjustable cancellation helps reduce the steady rumble of aircraft, transit and office ventilation, making listening more comfortable and reducing the need to turn music up to compete. It is a particularly useful advantage for frequent travelers and people who work in noisy shared spaces.
Quiet, Aware, Immersion, Cinema and Off modes cover different situations. Aware mode lets outside sound through when it is important to hear announcements or talk to someone nearby. ActiveSense can respond to sudden loud sounds in that mode, helping soften abrupt noises without shutting the world out completely. These options make the Bose more adaptable than a simple noise-cancelling-on-or-off setup, though the best mode depends on the environment and personal preference.
Calls and connections
Bluetooth 5.4 and multipoint let the headphones connect to two devices, so switching between a laptop and phone is easier. That is useful for taking a call while working on a computer, though multipoint is a convenience rather than a substitute for checking which device is actively playing audio. The microphones support calls, but the supplied information does not establish a standout advantage for call quality over the best rivals.
The USB-C port handles charging and digital audio, and listening over USB-C can continue while the headphones charge. A 2.5mm audio input provides another wired option. The box includes USB-C and 3.5mm-to-2.5mm audio cables; a power adapter is not included.
Battery and charging
Bose rates battery life at up to 30 hours with noise cancellation on and Immersive Audio off, or up to 23 hours with Immersive Audio enabled. A full charge takes about three hours, while a 15-minute quick charge can provide up to three hours of standard listening. These are maximum figures, and actual time varies with settings and use. Leaving the immersive mode off is the sensible choice when stretching a charge matters more than a wider presentation.
Weaknesses
The second generation is a relatively modest update, so owners of the first-generation Ultra should not assume they need to replace a working pair. Immersive and Cinema modes will not suit everyone, app EQ is fairly basic, and the headphones lack water resistance. Battery life is solid but not a category-leading reason to choose Bose. At its premium price, buyers should also compare the Sony WH-1000XM6 rather than choosing by brand alone.
Closest alternative
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM6 if you want a more refined, detailed sound, more extensive EQ controls or a longer-lasting charge. It also has a small edge in noise cancellation according to comparative testing. Choose the Bose instead if long-wear comfort, a spacious fit and its combination of noise-cancelling and Aware modes matter more. USB-C lossless listening is another practical Bose advantage for compatible sources.
Buying verdict
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) are a strong premium choice for frequent travelers, commuters and anyone who values comfort and quiet above audio tinkering. Their flexible modes and wired options add useful versatility, even if the generational changes are restrained. Buyers who care most about sound refinement, deep EQ control or battery endurance should choose Sony; for comfortable everyday listening and excellent noise management, Bose makes the more compelling case.