Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2nd Gen)
Both are Bose in-ear noise-canceling earbuds, but they are different generations of the QuietComfort line. The Ultra (2nd Gen) is the newer, more feature-loaded model with spatial audio and adjustable ANC; the QuietComfort (2nd Gen) is the simpler, cheaper sibling. Prices move a lot on the Ultra: it ranged from $170.00 on October 31 to $343.36 on October 29, so check the current store price before deciding.
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Choose the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) if you want Bose's top-tier noise canceling, immersive spatial audio and adjustable ANC, and you can catch it near its $170 low.
- Best-in-class Bose ANC with adjustable modes
- Immersive Audio adds spatial sound
- Up to 30 hours total with the charging case
- IPX4 sweat resistance for workouts
- Bose app with EQ and mode control
What separates them
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) | Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2nd Gen) | |
|---|---|---|
| Position in lineup | Flagship Ultra tier | Standard QuietComfort tier |
| Spatial audio | Immersive Audio mode included | Not offered |
| Noise canceling | Adjustable active noise canceling with Quiet and Aware modes | Active noise canceling, fewer tuning options |
| Battery life (buds) | About 6 hours, up to 30 hours with case | Up to 24 hours total with case |
| Water resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Driver size | Not specified in listing | 40 mm driver listed |
| Price spread | $170.00 low to $343.36 high in late October | Typically lower street price than Ultra |
Price history
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): lowest $170.00 on Oct 31 at eBay; $229.00 on Nov 5.
- Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2nd Gen): lowest $309.99 on Oct 29.
Prices at every store
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)
- AdoramaCheck price at Adorama
- AmazonCheck price at Amazon
- Macy'sCheck price at Macy's
Specs compared
| Spec | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) | Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| With Microphone | Yes | Yes |
| Color | Black | White Smoke |
| Style | On-ear | On-ear |
| Wireless Type | Bluetooth | Bluetooth |
| Over-Ear | Yes | Yes |
| Max Battery Life | 30 hours | 24 hours |
| Driver Size | 40 mm | 40 mm driver |
| Noise Canceling | Yes | — |
| Surround Sound | Yes | — |
| Height | 1.77″ tall | — |
| Headphone Fit |
What reviewers say
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2nd Gen)
Owners and reviewers consistently rate the noise cancellation and sound as among the best in true wireless earbuds, and multipoint pairing draws steady praise. Complaints centre on the price, the lack of wireless charging and the earbuds' bulk in smaller ears.
- Noise cancellationPraisedReviewers call the ANC the best available in earbuds, especially on planes and trains.
- Sound qualityPraisedOwners describe a balanced, full sound with strong bass that suits most genres.
- PriceCriticisedMany say the earbuds cost more than rivals with comparable features.
Questions and answers
- Which has better noise canceling?
- The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen). It has adjustable active noise canceling with dedicated Quiet and Aware modes, while the standard QuietComfort Earbuds (2nd Gen) offers simpler ANC.
- Is the Ultra worth the extra money?
- Yes if you want spatial audio and the best ANC Bose sells. If you mainly want solid noise canceling for less, the standard model covers that. Watch the Ultra's price, which has swung from $170.00 to $343.36.
- Which lasts longer on a charge?
- The Ultra. Bose rates it at about 6 hours in the buds and up to 30 hours with the case, versus up to 24 hours total for the QuietComfort Earbuds (2nd Gen).
- Can I work out in either one?
- Yes. Both are rated IPX4, which handles sweat and light rain. Neither is meant for swimming or heavy submersion.
- Do both work with the Bose app?
- Yes. Both pair with the Bose app for firmware updates and EQ. The Ultra adds Immersive Audio controls in the app.
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