Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Sony WH-1000XM3
The Verdict
Both headphones deliver excellent noise cancellation and build quality, but they excel in different areas. Bose's QuietComfort Ultra ($429) focuses on immersive sound with its Immersive Audio technology and CustomTune personalization, paired with newer Bluetooth 5.3 and aptX Adaptive codec support for superior wireless streaming. Battery life reaches 24 hours with ANC enabled, though this drops to 18 hours with Immersive Audio active. Sony's WH-1000XM3 ($349) counters with outstanding longevity: 30 hours per charge with ANC on, plus faster quick charging (10 minutes yields 5 hours versus Bose's 2.5 hours). The Sony features larger 40mm drivers and LDAC codec compatibility for high-res audio, alongside adaptive sound control that intelligently adjusts to your environment. At $80 cheaper, Sony offers superior value and exceptional battery endurance for frequent travelers. Bose justifies its premium through cutting-edge spatial audio features and more current Bluetooth technology. Choose the Sony WH-1000XM3 if battery longevity and price matter most; select the Bose QuietComfort Ultra if you prioritize immersive sound technology and newer wireless standards.
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 Sony WH-1000XM3 if…
- →Outstanding ANC performance that still competes with newer models
- →Incredibly comfortable and lightweight at 255 g
- →30-hour battery with quick charge is excellent
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 WH-1000XM3
Pros
- Outstanding ANC performance that still competes with newer models
- Incredibly comfortable and lightweight at 255 g
- 30-hour battery with quick charge is excellent
- Wide codec support including LDAC and aptX HD
- 10-minute quick charge gives 5 hours — great for travel
Cons
- Bluetooth 4.2 lacks the stability and range of newer versions
- No water resistance — not suitable for workouts
- Touch controls can be accidentally triggered
- Creaks and pressure can build on larger heads over time
Full Specifications
| Spec | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | Sony WH-1000XM3 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 254 g | 255 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 24 hours ANC on (18 hours with Immersive Audio) | 30 hrs with ANC |
| Charging | USB-C, 15 min = 2.5 hours quick charge | USB-C, 10 min = 5 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 35mm dynamic | 40mm Liquid Crystal Polymer dome |
| Features | Bose Immersive Audio, CustomTune sound calibration, Snapdragon Sound with aptX Adaptive, Multipoint pairing, Aware Mode with ActiveSense | HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, Adaptive Sound Control, Touch controls on ear cup, Quick Attention mode, Speak-to-Chat (via update), DSEE HX upscaling |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive | SBC, AAC, LDAC, aptX, aptX HD |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 4.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
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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.
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