Apple AirPods 2nd Gen vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
The Verdict
The Apple AirPods 2nd Gen and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) sit in the same category and end up appealing to slightly different buyers. The Apple AirPods 2nd Gen is the cheaper of the two at $129 versus $449, a difference of about $320. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) is the newer release, which usually means a faster chipset and longer software support. Apple AirPods 2nd Gen stands out for iconic design and effortless apple ecosystem integration, while Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) is praised for 30 hours battery with anc, 45 hours without. Use the side-by-side spec table below to compare cameras, displays, battery life and connectivity in detail and decide which one fits your priorities.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen if…
- →Iconic design and effortless Apple ecosystem integration
- →H1 chip enables hands-free Hey Siri voice commands
- →Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
Buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) if…
- →30 hours battery with ANC, 45 hours without
- →USB-C lossless digital audio support
- →Improved adaptive ANC algorithm
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods 2nd Gen
Pros
- Iconic design and effortless Apple ecosystem integration
- H1 chip enables hands-free Hey Siri voice commands
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- Quick and reliable pairing with all Apple devices
- Affordable entry point into the AirPods lineup
Cons
- No water or sweat resistance rating — risky for workouts
- 5-hour battery life is below average by modern standards
- No noise cancellation or transparency mode
- One-size-fits-all design doesn't suit every ear shape
- Lightning charging only — no USB-C
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
Pros
- 30 hours battery with ANC, 45 hours without
- USB-C lossless digital audio support
- Improved adaptive ANC algorithm
- Multipoint Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity
- New Cinema Mode for spatial video audio
Cons
- Price increased to $449
- 250g is heavier than some competitors
- No aptX Lossless codec support
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods 2nd Gen | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 4 g (each) | 250 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 5 hrs (earbuds), 24 hrs total with case | 30 hours (ANC on), 45 hours (ANC off) |
| Charging | Lightning (wireless charging case optional) | USB-C |
| Drivers | Apple-designed driver | — |
| Features | H1 chip with Hey Siri support, Automatic ear detection, Seamless Apple device switching, Quick pairing via proximity | Immersive Audio (spatial audio), Cinema Mode for video, USB-C lossless digital audio, Adaptive ANC algorithm, Google Fast Pair, Spotify Tap |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.4 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | — |
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Bose products. View full details for the Apple AirPods 2nd Gen or the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen).