QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2

Bose’s QC Ultra 2 is the cleanest noise-cancelling story in the category. Better than the XM6 in some scenarios, behind in others, and the right answer if comfort is your top priority.

The ANC comparison

QC Ultra 2 wins in higher-frequency cancellation (1-4kHz, where human voice sits) — your colleague’s lunchtime conversation gets actively erased better than on the XM6. The XM6 wins in low-frequency rumble. For airplane cabins specifically, the XM6 is more effective; for open-plan office voice masking, the QC Ultra 2 is the better tool.

Comfort, the differentiator

320g — heavier than the XM6 (252g) — but the cushioning distribution makes them feel lighter on the head over a 4-hour session. We did a 9-hour transatlantic test and the QC Ultra 2 was the only pair we kept on for the full duration. The earcups are deeper, which keeps your ears from touching the driver — a comfort issue with the XM6 if you have larger ears.

Sound, neutral-leaning

Less V-shaped than Sony — more accurate but less exciting on default tuning. Five-band EQ in the app addresses this. Spatial Audio (Bose’s “Immersive Audio” feature) is gimmicky compared to Apple’s spatial implementation; we left it off.

Battery and connectivity

24 hours with ANC, 30 without — both shorter than Sony. Multipoint works; aptX Lossless support is the differentiator if you have an Android phone or Mac with the codec.

What you give up

$429 (slightly under Sony). The case is unwieldy. No LDAC support if you’re an audiophile-curious Android user.

Bottom line: Buy these if you wear headphones for 6+ hours a day. The XM6 is better for hi-fi listening; the QC Ultra 2 is better for living in.