Audio-Technica ATH-M40x vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
The Verdict
These headphones serve entirely different purposes. Audio-Technica ATH-M40x are professional-grade wired monitors designed for studio work and critical listening, featuring a flat 40mm dynamic driver optimized for accuracy rather than enjoyment. They cost $99 and deliver exceptional value for producers, sound engineers, and audiophiles who prioritize neutral frequency response and reliability. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II are premium wireless earbuds priced at $299, built for everyday convenience with industry-leading active noise cancellation, CustomTune auto-calibration, and 6-hour battery life on a single charge (24 total with case). The M40x excel at stationary monitoring with their circumaural design, detachable cables, and foldable build for studio portability. The Bose units dominate in mobility and lifestyle features, offering multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, IPX4 water resistance, and quick-charge capability via USB-C or Qi wireless. Audio quality differs fundamentally: the M40x provide transparent, uncolored sound for work environments, while the Bose deliver tuned, consumer-friendly audio with transparent mode for ambient awareness. Choose the M40x if you need wired accuracy for professional or critical listening purposes. Choose the Bose if you prioritize wireless freedom, noise cancellation, and all-day portability for commuting or general use.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x if…
- →Flatter, more neutral tuning than the M50x — preferred by some engineers
- →Excellent value at $99 for professional-grade monitoring
- →Lightweight at 240 g for comfortable extended mixing sessions
Buy the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II if…
- →Best-in-class ANC that rivals over-ear headphones
- →CustomTune calibrates noise cancellation and sound to your ears
- →Compact and lightweight at 6.24 g for comfortable all-day wear
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
Pros
- Flatter, more neutral tuning than the M50x — preferred by some engineers
- Excellent value at $99 for professional-grade monitoring
- Lightweight at 240 g for comfortable extended mixing sessions
- Foldable and portable with detachable cables
- Reliable build quality trusted by studios globally
Cons
- Wired only — no wireless option
- Bass response is intentionally restrained — not for bass lovers
- Ear pads are thin and may need replacement for comfort
- Plastic build feels less premium than metal competitors
- No carrying case included
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Pros
- Best-in-class ANC that rivals over-ear headphones
- CustomTune calibrates noise cancellation and sound to your ears
- Compact and lightweight at 6.24 g for comfortable all-day wear
- Multipoint Bluetooth for dual-device connectivity
- Qi wireless charging case for convenience
Cons
- Only AAC and SBC codecs — no LDAC or aptX
- 6-hour battery with ANC is relatively short
- IPX4 is basic splash resistance
- $299 is expensive for true wireless earbuds
- Call quality can be inconsistent in windy environments
Full Specifications
| Spec | Audio-Technica ATH-M40x | Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 240 g | 6.24 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | N/A (wired) | 6 hrs (ANC on), 24 hrs total with case |
| Charging | N/A | USB-C, Qi wireless, 20 min = 2 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 40mm large-aperture dynamic driver | 9.3mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Flat, neutral frequency response for accurate monitoring, 40mm drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire, 90-degree swiveling ear cups, 2 detachable cables included, Foldable for portability, Circumaural design | CustomTune auto-calibrating ANC and sound, ActiveSense transparency mode, Aware Mode for hearing surroundings, Bose Music app with EQ, Touchpad controls |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | |
| Bluetooth | None (wired only) | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IPX4 |
Want to compare a third product?
Add another product for a 3-way comparison.
Related Comparisons
- Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II vs Sony WH-1000XM6
- Audio-Technica ATH-M40x vs Sony WH-1000XM6
- Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
- Audio-Technica ATH-M40x vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
- Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II vs Sony WH-XB910N Extra Bass
- Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II vs Sony WH-1000XM5
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 Audio-Technica products or all Bose products. View full details for the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x or the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II.