Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
The Verdict
The Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) sit in the same category and end up appealing to slightly different buyers. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) is the cheaper of the two at $449 versus $549, a difference of about $100. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) is the newer release, which usually means a faster chipset and longer software support. Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) stands out for premium aluminum and mesh build quality, 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 Max (USB-C) if…
- →Premium aluminum and mesh build quality
- →Excellent ANC and transparency mode
- →Seamless integration across Apple devices
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 Max (USB-C)
Pros
- Premium aluminum and mesh build quality
- Excellent ANC and transparency mode
- Seamless integration across Apple devices
- Now supports lossless audio via USB-C cable
Cons
- Very heavy compared to competitors
- No real power-off button, relies on Smart Case
- No multipoint outside Apple ecosystem
- Still uses Bluetooth 5.0, no LDAC or aptX
- Expensive
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 Max (USB-C) | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 384.8 g | 250 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 20 hours ANC on | 30 hours (ANC on), 45 hours (ANC off) |
| Charging | USB-C, 5 min = 1.5 hours quick charge | USB-C |
| Drivers | 40mm dynamic with dual neodymium ring magnet motor | — |
| Features | Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, Adaptive EQ, Transparency mode, Apple H1 chip, Lossless audio over USB-C (iOS 18) | 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 | — |
Want to compare a third product?
Add another product for a 3-way comparison.
Related Comparisons
- Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) vs Sony WH-1000XM6
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) vs Sony WH-1000XM6
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) vs Bose QuietComfort 35 II
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) vs Sennheiser HD 660S2
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) vs Sony WH-1000XM4
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 Max (USB-C) or the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen).