Bose Ultra Open Earbuds vs Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
The Verdict
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds prioritize comfort and ambient awareness with their distinctive cuff design, ideal for users who want to stay connected to surroundings while enjoying directional audio. Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 deliver superior active noise cancellation via Silent Seal 2.0 and longer battery life (8 hours vs 7.5 hours with ANC equivalent), plus Gemini AI integration for Google ecosystem users. Pixel Buds weigh just 4.7g per bud compared to Bose's 6.5g, offering better portability. Sound quality favors the Bose's OpenAudio immersive experience, while Pixel Buds excel in noise isolation and call clarity through their Tensor A1 chip. At $229 versus $299, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer better value with ANC, longer endurance, and tighter software integration. For open-design listeners prioritizing ambient sound, choose Bose; for comprehensive features and everyday versatility, Pixel Buds Pro 2 win decisively.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 if…
- →Significantly improved ANC powered by the new Tensor A1 chip
- →Smaller, lighter, more comfortable design than the original
- →Long battery life — 8 hrs per bud with ANC on
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
Pros
- Significantly improved ANC powered by the new Tensor A1 chip
- Smaller, lighter, more comfortable design than the original
- Long battery life — 8 hrs per bud with ANC on
- Deep Pixel and Android integration with Gemini
- Spatial Audio with head tracking and multipoint
Cons
- No hi-res or LDAC codec support (AAC/SBC only)
- Best features are tied to Pixel and Android devices
- Touch controls can be inconsistent
- Case has lower IPX4 rating than the buds
Full Specifications
| Spec | Bose Ultra Open Earbuds | Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 6.5 g (each) | 4.7 g (per bud) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 7.5 hrs, 19.5 hrs total with case | 8 hrs buds (ANC on), up to 30 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, wireless charging (Qi) | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Drivers | Bose OpenAudio technology | 11 mm custom dynamic driver |
| Features | 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 | Tensor A1 chip for on-device audio processing, Silent Seal 2.0 active noise cancellation, Gemini AI assistant integration, Spatial Audio with head tracking, Find My Device and Find My speaker on case, Conversation Detection |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | aptX Adaptive, AAC, SBC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.4 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IP54 (buds), IPX4 (case) |
Related Comparisons
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 Google products. View full details for the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds or the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2.