Beats Flex vs Bose QuietComfort 35 II
The Verdict
Beats Flex and Bose QuietComfort 35 II serve distinctly different use cases. Beats Flex delivers lightweight, portable audio at $69 with a 12-hour battery and Apple W1 integration, ideal for casual listeners and Apple ecosystem users seeking affordability. Bose QC35 II, priced at $299, offers premium over-ear comfort with industry-leading ANC across three levels, 40mm Bose drivers, and 20-hour wireless battery life, making it superior for travelers and professionals requiring immersive noise cancellation. QC35 II's wired capability and Google Assistant integration add versatility. While Beats Flex excels in portability and value for basic listening, Bose QC35 II justifies its premium cost through exceptional ANC performance, superior build quality, and extended battery life. For serious audio enthusiasts or frequent travelers, Bose QC35 II is the clear choice. For budget-conscious casual users, Beats Flex offers solid performance.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Beats Flex if…
- →Outstanding value at $69 with Apple W1 chip
- →Magnetic earbuds auto-pause music when joined together
- →12-hour battery life is generous for the price
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
Beats Flex
Pros
- Outstanding value at $69 with Apple W1 chip
- Magnetic earbuds auto-pause music when joined together
- 12-hour battery life is generous for the price
- USB-C charging — no Lightning cable needed
- Works well with both iOS and Android devices
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- Neckband design isn't for everyone — less discreet than true wireless
- No water resistance rating
- Sound quality is adequate but not detailed
- Bluetooth 4.2 is dated
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- Micro-USB charging port is outdated — not USB-C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 | Beats Flex | Bose QuietComfort 35 II |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 18.6 g | 235 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 12 hrs | 20 hrs (wireless with ANC), 40 hrs (wired with ANC) |
| Charging | USB-C, 10 min = 1.5 hrs (Fast Fuel) | Micro-USB, 2.25 hrs for full charge, 15 min = 2.5 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 12mm dual-chamber driver | 40mm Bose custom drivers |
| Features | Apple W1 chip, Magnetic earbuds auto-pause when connected, USB-C charging, Neckband design with Flex-Form cable, Shared audio with other Beats or AirPods | 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 | SBC, AAC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 4.2 (Apple W1 chip) | 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 Beats products or all Bose products. View full details for the Beats Flex or the Bose QuietComfort 35 II.