Bose QuietComfort 35 II vs Samsung Galaxy Buds Live
The Verdict
Bose QuietComfort 35 II delivers superior sound quality with 40mm custom drivers and three ANC levels, making it ideal for serious listeners and frequent travelers seeking all-day comfort. Samsung Galaxy Buds Live offer portability and modern conveniences like USB-C charging, wireless case charging, and IPX2 water resistance at nearly half the price. Sound signature differs significantly: Bose emphasizes balanced, room-filling audio with deeper ANC implementation, while Galaxy Buds Live provide brighter treble with bass duct enhancement suited for mobile users. Battery longevity favors Bose at 20 hours wireless with ANC versus 6 hours per bud, though Galaxy Buds' case extends total endurance to 21 hours. For stationary work, commuting, or travel where portability matters less, Bose's superior acoustic engineering and ANC sophistication justify the premium. Galaxy Buds Live suit casual listeners prioritizing convenience and value. Choose Bose for audio excellence; choose Samsung for modern features and price.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live if…
- →Unique bean-shaped design is eye-catching and comfortable
- →Open design allows situational awareness while listening
- →AKG-tuned sound with impressive bass for an open design
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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- Micro-USB charging port is outdated — not USB-C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
Samsung Galaxy Buds Live
Pros
- Unique bean-shaped design is eye-catching and comfortable
- Open design allows situational awareness while listening
- AKG-tuned sound with impressive bass for an open design
- 6-hour battery with ANC is decent for the form factor
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
Cons
- Open design means ANC effectiveness is very limited
- Sound leakage at higher volumes is noticeable to others
- IPX2 is barely splash-proof — not workout-friendly
- Fit can be insecure without ear tips — prone to falling out
- No wing tips or ear hooks for active use
Full Specifications
| Spec | Bose QuietComfort 35 II | Samsung Galaxy Buds Live |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 235 g | 5.6 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 20 hrs (wireless with ANC), 40 hrs (wired with ANC) | 6 hrs ANC on (8 hrs off), 21 hrs total with case |
| Charging | Micro-USB, 2.25 hrs for full charge, 15 min = 2.5 hrs playback | USB-C or Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 40mm Bose custom drivers | 12mm driver with Bass Duct |
| Features | 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 | Open-type Active Noise Cancellation, 12mm speaker with AKG tuning, Bass Duct for deep low-end, 3 microphones per bud for calls, Qi wireless charging case |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, Samsung Scalable Codec |
| Bluetooth | 4.2 with NFC pairing | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IPX2 |
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 Bose products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Bose QuietComfort 35 II or the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live.