Audio-Technica ATH-M50x vs Bose QuietComfort 35 II
The Verdict
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x excels as a professional studio monitoring solution with exceptional passive sound isolation through its 45mm drivers and circumaural design, making it ideal for audio engineers and critical listeners. Bose QuietComfort 35 II prioritizes comfort and convenience with active noise cancellation across three levels, Google Assistant integration, and 20-hour wireless battery life, catering to travelers and casual listeners. Sound signature differs significantly: M50x delivers neutral, accurate studio-grade audio with removable cables for longevity, while QC35 II offers warm, balanced sound optimized for everyday listening with seamless wireless connectivity. M50x lacks Bluetooth entirely, restricting it to wired use, whereas QC35 II provides flexibility with both wireless and wired modes. At double the price, QC35 II justifies cost through ANC technology and portability features. Choose M50x for professional work requiring accuracy and durability; select QC35 II for daily use prioritizing noise cancellation and wireless freedom.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x if…
- →Industry-standard studio monitor used by professionals worldwide
- →Accurate, detailed sound reproduction across all frequencies
- →Three included cables cover studio, DJ, and portable use cases
Buy the Bose QuietComfort 35 II if…
- →Legendary Bose noise cancellation that set the industry standard
- →Extremely comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- →20-hour battery life is solid for travel and commuting
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Pros
- Industry-standard studio monitor used by professionals worldwide
- Accurate, detailed sound reproduction across all frequencies
- Three included cables cover studio, DJ, and portable use cases
- Foldable with swiveling cups for single-ear monitoring
- Exceptional value — professional quality at a consumer price
Cons
- Wired only — no Bluetooth option (ATH-M50xBT2 exists separately)
- Ear pads can get warm and sweaty during long sessions
- Clamping force is tight on larger heads out of the box
- Sound isolation is passive only — no ANC
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Pros
- Legendary Bose noise cancellation that set the industry standard
- Extremely comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- 20-hour battery life is solid for travel and commuting
- Dedicated Google Assistant button for quick voice commands
- Foldable design and included hard case for portability
Cons
- Bluetooth 4.2 lacks modern codecs like aptX and LDAC
- Micro-USB charging port is outdated — not USB-C
- Sound quality is beaten by newer XM4 and XM5 models
- No multipoint Bluetooth for connecting two devices simultaneously
- Plastic build shows wear over time
Full Specifications
| Spec | Audio-Technica ATH-M50x | Bose QuietComfort 35 II |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 285 g | 235 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | N/A (wired) | 20 hrs (wireless with ANC), 40 hrs (wired with ANC) |
| Charging | N/A | Micro-USB, 2.25 hrs for full charge, 15 min = 2.5 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 45mm large-aperture dynamic driver | 40mm Bose custom drivers |
| Features | Professional studio monitoring, 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets, 90-degree swiveling ear cups for one-ear monitoring, 3 detachable cables included, Foldable design for portability, Circumaural design for sound isolation | Three levels of ANC (High, Low, Off), Google Assistant built-in (dedicated button), Bose AR (augmented reality) compatible, Volume-optimized EQ, Foldable design with carry case |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | |
| Bluetooth | None (wired only) | 4.2 with NFC pairing |
| 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-M50x or the Bose QuietComfort 35 II.