Bose QuietComfort 35 II vs Sony WF-1000XM5
The Verdict
Both headphones excel in noise cancellation at this price point but serve different needs. Bose QuietComfort 35 II offers over-ear comfort ideal for long listening sessions, delivering 20 hours of wireless ANC playback with their proven sound tuning and Google Assistant integration. Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds provide superior hi-res audio via LDAC, advanced features like multipoint pairing and Speak-to-Chat, plus Qi wireless charging for convenience, though 8-hour battery per bud demands case reliance. Sound quality slightly favors Sony's hi-res codec support and upscaling technology, while Bose prioritizes comfort and simplicity. For portability and modern features, Sony edges ahead; for marathon listening comfort and straightforward operation, Bose wins. Choose Sony for tech enthusiasts wanting compact hi-res audio with smart features, or Bose for those prioritizing comfort and traditional over-ear reliability.
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 Sony WF-1000XM5 if…
- →Best-in-class active noise cancellation for true wireless earbuds
- →LDAC hi-res audio support with rich, customizable sound
- →Smaller and lighter than predecessor with improved comfort
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- Micro-USB charging port is outdated — not USB-C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
Sony WF-1000XM5
Pros
- Best-in-class active noise cancellation for true wireless earbuds
- LDAC hi-res audio support with rich, customizable sound
- Smaller and lighter than predecessor with improved comfort
- Bluetooth multipoint and LE Audio with Auracast
- Speak-to-Chat and Adaptive Sound Control
Cons
- Expensive at $300 launch price
- Reports of build-quality issues with case hinge
- Touch controls can be sensitive
- Only IPX4 water resistance (no dust rating)
Full Specifications
| Spec | Bose QuietComfort 35 II | Sony WF-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 235 g | 5.9 g (per bud) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 20 hrs (wireless with ANC), 40 hrs (wired with ANC) | 8 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 24 hrs total with case |
| Charging | Micro-USB, 2.25 hrs for full charge, 15 min = 2.5 hrs playback | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 40mm Bose custom drivers | 8.4 mm Dynamic Driver X |
| 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 | Integrated Processor V2 and HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN2e, LDAC hi-res audio and DSEE Extreme upscaling, 360 Reality Audio, Adaptive Sound Control and Speak-to-Chat, Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast support, Multipoint Bluetooth pairing |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | LDAC, LC3, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 4.2 with NFC pairing | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IPX4 (buds) |
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 Sony products. View full details for the Bose QuietComfort 35 II or the Sony WF-1000XM5.