Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Sony WH-1000XM5
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Both headphones deliver exceptional noise cancellation and premium build quality, but they excel in different areas. Sony's WH-1000XM5 leads with industry-dominant ANC, superior battery longevity (30 hours vs 24 hours), and faster quick charging (3 minutes for 3 hours versus 15 minutes for 2.5 hours). Its LDAC codec support provides lossless audio for compatible devices. Bose QuietComfort Ultra counters with CustomTune sound calibration technology, Immersive Audio spatial features, and aptX Adaptive for superior wireless streaming quality. Sound profile preferences will drive preference here—Sony emphasizes balanced clarity with DSEE Extreme upscaling, while Bose focuses on immersive spatial rendering. Weight differences are negligible at 250g versus 254g. For daily commuters prioritizing battery endurance and proven ANC performance, Sony wins. For listeners seeking innovative spatial audio and sound customization, Bose justifies its $30 premium. Sony WH-1000XM5 offers better overall value with superior battery life and proven reliability.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 254 g | 250 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 24 hours ANC on (18 hours with Immersive Audio) | 30 hours ANC on |
| Charging | USB-C, 15 min = 2.5 hours quick charge | USB-C, 3 min = 3 hours quick charge |
| Drivers | 35mm dynamic | 30mm dynamic carbon fiber composite |
| Features | Bose Immersive Audio, CustomTune sound calibration, Snapdragon Sound with aptX Adaptive, Multipoint pairing, Aware Mode with ActiveSense | Industry-leading ANC, Speak-to-Chat, Adaptive Sound Control, Multipoint pairing, DSEE Extreme upscaling |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
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-1000XM5
Pros
- Class-leading active noise cancellation
- Excellent call quality with beamforming mics
- Lightweight, comfortable for long sessions
- LDAC hi-res Bluetooth support
Cons
- No longer folds flat for travel
- No IP rating against sweat or rain
- Expensive at launch
- Mediocre wired/USB audio quality
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 WH-1000XM5.