- Which has better noise cancellation?
- Bose markets the QuietComfort Ultra II as its best headphone noise cancellation and adds CustomTune ear calibration. The Sony WH-1000XM5 is close and uses eight microphones with Adaptive Sound Control. Try both on a plane or train if you can.
- Is the Bose worth $152 more?
- Only if you want spatial audio, Cinema Mode and USB-C lossless listening. For plain noise cancellation and music, the Sony at $198.00 at Best Buy as of November 6, 2026 is the better buy.
- Which is better for calls?
- The Sony has eight microphones for voice pickup and reviewers praise its call quality. The Bose also handles calls well, but the Sony is the safer pick for frequent meetings.
- Which lasts longer on a charge?
- Both are rated up to 30 hours. The Bose drops to 23 hours with Immersive Audio on. The Sony's quick charge gives about 3 hours from 3 minutes, while Bose gives up to 2.5 hours from 15 minutes.
- Which is better for movies and video?
- The Bose, because Cinema Mode spatializes and balances background sound for video. The Sony has no spatial audio feature.
- Do both work wired?
- Yes. The Sony includes a 3.5 mm cable and has a 3.5 mm jack. The Bose includes a 3.5 mm to 2.5 mm cable and also takes USB-C audio.
