Audio-Technica ATH-M40x vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones
The Verdict
Audio-Technica's ATH-M40x delivers professional-grade monitoring with a flat, neutral frequency response ideal for studio work, powered by 40mm drivers with rare earth magnets. Bose's QuietComfort Headphones ($349) offer active noise cancellation, 24-hour battery life with ANC enabled, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, and multipoint pairing for modern wireless convenience. Sound quality differences reflect their intended purposes: the ATH-M40x excels in accuracy for mixing and mastering, while Bose prioritizes comfort and lifestyle features with CustomTune personalization. Weight-wise, Bose's 296g is slightly heavier than the ATH-M40x's 240g. Budget-conscious professionals needing wired studio monitors should choose the ATH-M40x. Casual listeners valuing wireless freedom, ANC, and all-day battery life will prefer Bose. At a $250 price difference, your selection depends entirely on whether you need professional audio monitoring or versatile everyday headphones.
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 Headphones if…
- →World-class ANC that rivals the QuietComfort Ultra
- →24-hour battery life is among the best in the category
- →Multipoint Bluetooth connects to two devices simultaneously
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 Headphones
Pros
- World-class ANC that rivals the QuietComfort Ultra
- 24-hour battery life is among the best in the category
- Multipoint Bluetooth connects to two devices simultaneously
- Extremely comfortable with plush protein leather ear cushions
- USB-C charging finally replaces the dated Micro-USB
Cons
- Sound quality is good but lacks the spatial depth of QC Ultra
- Only AAC and SBC codecs — no aptX or LDAC
- 296 g is heavier than Sony WH-1000XM5
- No water resistance rating for gym or outdoor use
- Plastic headband can feel less premium than metal alternatives
Full Specifications
| Spec | Audio-Technica ATH-M40x | Bose QuietComfort Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 240 g | 296 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | N/A (wired) | 24 hrs with ANC, 2.5 hrs charge time, 15 min = 2.5 hrs |
| Charging | N/A | USB-C |
| Drivers | 40mm large-aperture dynamic driver | Custom Bose drivers with TriPort acoustic architecture |
| 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 | Adjustable ANC with Aware Mode, CustomTune personalized audio calibration, Multipoint for two simultaneous device connections, Bose Music app with EQ and settings, Foldable design with carry case |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | |
| Bluetooth | None (wired only) | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
Related Comparisons
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 Headphones.