Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones II

Both are top-tier noise-cancelling over-ear headphones with 30-hour batteries and strong sound. The Sony WH-1000XM5 leans on lighter weight, LDAC hi-res streaming and a lower clamping feel, but owners repeatedly report the plastic slider arm snapping, often around a year and a half in. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra II has metal arms, a foldable design, spatial Immersive Audio and CustomTune ear-shape tuning, with fewer durability complaints. Buy the Sony for lighter all-day wear and Android hi-res audio; buy the Bose for sturdier build and immersive listening.

• Choose the Sony WH-1000XM5 if you want the lightest-feeling pair with LDAC hi-res audio, multipoint and adaptive noise cancelling that adjusts to where you are.
• Choose the Bose QuietComfort Ultra II if you want metal arms, a foldable frame, spatial audio and sound tuned to your ears, and you care about long-term build.