Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Sony WF-1000XM5
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Sony WF-1000XM5 represent different headphone philosophies at different price points. Bose delivers superior ANC performance with its dual-microphone system and maintains excellent sound through CustomTune calibration, plus offers genuine over-ear comfort for extended listening with 24-hour battery life. Sony's earbuds excel in portability and versatility, featuring LDAC hi-res audio support, industry-leading spatial processing with 360 Reality Audio, and IPX4 water resistance—critical for active users. Sound quality favors Bose's larger drivers and immersive technology, though Sony's DSEE Extreme upscaling impresses. Battery endurance goes to Bose (24 hours vs. 8 hours per charge), while Sony wins on convenience with wireless charging and smaller form factor. At $130 less, Sony offers exceptional value for commuters and gym-goers, but Bose suits those prioritizing premium ANC, all-day comfort, and audiophile-grade sound. Choose Bose for stationary listening and travel; choose Sony for versatility and portability.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | Sony WF-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 254 g | 5.9 g (per bud) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 24 hours ANC on (18 hours with Immersive Audio) | 8 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 24 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, 15 min = 2.5 hours quick charge | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 35mm dynamic | 8.4 mm Dynamic Driver X |
| Features | Bose Immersive Audio, CustomTune sound calibration, Snapdragon Sound with aptX Adaptive, Multipoint pairing, Aware Mode with ActiveSense | 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 | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive | LDAC, LC3, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IPX4 (buds) |
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
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)
Related Comparisons
Explore more in headphones, see all Bose products or all Sony products. View full details for the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones or the Sony WF-1000XM5.