Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
The Verdict
Bose's flagship over-ear headphones deliver superior ANC performance with 24-hour battery life, premium 35mm drivers, and Immersive Audio with head tracking calibration. However, the Ultra Open Earbuds offer a compelling alternative for portability and lifestyle use, featuring innovative open-ear design, wireless charging, and IPX4 water resistance at $130 less. Sound isolation heavily favors the QuietComfort Ultra through passive fit and active noise cancellation, making it ideal for travel and focused listening. Conversely, the Open Earbuds excel in ambient awareness and all-day comfort without ear fatigue. Choose the QuietComfort Ultra if ANC and extended battery matter most; select the Ultra Open Earbuds for active lifestyles prioritizing comfort and waterproofing.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones if…
- →Best-in-class noise cancellation
- →Exceptionally comfortable for long wear
- →Immersive Audio spatial feature works well
Buy the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds if…
- →Unique cuff design is extremely comfortable for all-day wear
- →Bose OpenAudio delivers remarkably full sound for open earbuds
- →Wireless charging case adds convenience
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Pros
- Best-in-class noise cancellation
- Exceptionally comfortable for long wear
- Immersive Audio spatial feature works well
- Supports aptX Adaptive over Bluetooth
Cons
- Battery life shorter than Sony XM5
- Immersive Audio significantly drains battery
- No LDAC for Android hi-res streaming
- Touch controls can be finicky
- Pricey
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
Pros
- Unique cuff design is extremely comfortable for all-day wear
- Bose OpenAudio delivers remarkably full sound for open earbuds
- Wireless charging case adds convenience
- Multipoint and aptX Adaptive for high-quality streaming
- Ideal for situational awareness during outdoor activities
Cons
- Very expensive at $299 for earbuds without ANC
- Bass is inherently limited compared to sealed designs
- 7.5-hour battery is decent but not exceptional
- Sound leak is noticeable in quiet environments
Full Specifications
| Spec | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | Bose Ultra Open Earbuds |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 254 g | 6.5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 24 hours ANC on (18 hours with Immersive Audio) | 7.5 hrs, 19.5 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, 15 min = 2.5 hours quick charge | USB-C, wireless charging (Qi) |
| Drivers | 35mm dynamic | Bose OpenAudio technology |
| Features | Bose Immersive Audio, CustomTune sound calibration, Snapdragon Sound with aptX Adaptive, Multipoint pairing, Aware Mode with ActiveSense | Cuff-style design clips onto the ear, Bose Immersive Audio with head tracking, OpenAudio directional sound technology, Multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Wireless charging case, Customizable EQ via Bose Music app |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive | aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IPX4 |
Related Comparisons
- Bose Ultra Open Earbuds vs Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
- Bose Ultra Open Earbuds vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones
- Bose Ultra Open Earbuds vs Bose QuietComfort 35 II
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort 35 II
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 Bose products. View full details for the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones or the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds.