Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Sennheiser HD 660S2
The Verdict
Bose QuietComfort Headphones deliver active noise cancellation, wireless convenience, and 24-hour battery life with CustomTune personalized audio, making them ideal for frequent travelers and commuters. Sennheiser HD 660S2 are wired audiophile-grade cans featuring 42mm dynamic drivers, 300-ohm impedance, and German handcrafted construction, requiring a dedicated amplifier but rewarding with superior sound clarity for critical listening. Choose Bose if you prioritize portability, wireless flexibility, and ANC for real-world environments. Select Sennheiser for stationary setups where uncompromised sound quality and open-back soundstage matter more than convenience. At $150 less, Bose offers better all-around value and usability.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Sennheiser HD 660S2 if…
- →Reference-grade sound with improved bass over the original HD 660S
- →Both 6.35mm and 4.4mm balanced cables included in the box
- →Open-back design creates a wide, natural soundstage
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Sennheiser HD 660S2
Pros
- Reference-grade sound with improved bass over the original HD 660S
- Both 6.35mm and 4.4mm balanced cables included in the box
- Open-back design creates a wide, natural soundstage
- Lightweight at 260 g for an audiophile over-ear
- Replaceable parts make it a long-term investment
Cons
- 300-ohm impedance requires a dedicated amp/DAC to drive properly
- Wired only — no Bluetooth option
- Open-back leaks significant sound — not for shared spaces
- $499 is steep for headphones that need additional equipment
Full Specifications
| Spec | Bose QuietComfort Headphones | Sennheiser HD 660S2 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 296 g | 260 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 24 hrs with ANC, 2.5 hrs charge time, 15 min = 2.5 hrs | N/A (wired) |
| Charging | USB-C | N/A |
| Drivers | Custom Bose drivers with TriPort acoustic architecture | 42mm dynamic transducer, 300 ohm impedance |
| Features | 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 | Open-back audiophile design, 300-ohm impedance for dedicated amp/DAC use, Balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn cable included, Replaceable ear pads and cables, Handmade in Germany |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | None (wired only) |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
Related Comparisons
- Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Sony WH-1000XM5
- Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Sony WH-1000XM4
- Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Sony WH-1000XM3
- Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Sony WF-1000XM5
- Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
- Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
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 Sennheiser products. View full details for the Bose QuietComfort Headphones or the Sennheiser HD 660S2.