As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click through and make a purchase.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are comparing the bose quietcomfort wireless over ear headphones vs quietcomfort ultra to find the best fit for your daily routine. Both models offer over-ear comfort and active noise cancellation for immersive listening. The primary difference lies in their audio technology and battery performance. The Ultra introduces spatial audio and a longer battery life, while the standard model focuses on essential features and a lighter build. You need to decide which feature set aligns with your specific listening habits.
Battery Life
Up to 24 hours
Up to 30 hours (23 with Immersive Audio)
Audio Technology
High-fidelity audio with Adjustable EQ
Spatial Audio with Immersion and Cinema Modes
Weight
8.4 ounces
1.06 pounds
Size (Height)
7.68 inches
2.19 inches
Color Options
11 options including Cypress Green
7 options including Midnight Violet
Choose the first if
- You prefer a lighter pair of headphones for extended wear
- You want customizable sound with Adjustable EQ rather than spatial audio
- You need more color choices for your style
Choose the second if
- You want the longest possible battery life for travel
- You are interested in immersive spatial audio for movies and music
- You value advanced noise cancellation with Immersion Mode
Verdict
Choose the standard QuietComfort if you prioritize a lighter weight and simpler, customizable audio control. Select the Ultra if you need extended battery life and want to experience spatial audio features for a more immersive soundstage.
Bose QuietComfort Headphones Comparison
battery life
Edge: Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones
Battery endurance is a practical factor for daily commuters and travelers. The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones offer up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge. A quick 15-minute charge provides an additional 2.5 hours of listening. In contrast, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones provide up to 30 hours of battery life. This duration drops to 23 hours if you enable Immersive Audio. The Ultra model holds a clear advantage here with six extra hours of standard playback. This extended runtime allows for longer trips without needing to find a power source. You will appreciate the extra margin if you frequently listen for extended periods.
audio features
Edge: Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones
Audio technology defines the listening experience for both devices. The QuietComfort Wireless model focuses on high-fidelity sound with adjustable EQ controls. You can tweak bass, mid-range, and treble to suit your preferences. It offers Quiet and Aware modes for noise management. The QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones introduce breakthrough spatialized audio. This feature places sound in front of you rather than inside your head. It also includes a Cinema Mode for video content and Immersion Mode. The Ultra provides more advanced spatial audio capabilities. If you watch movies or want immersive music, the Ultra offers superior features.
weight
Edge: Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Comfort during long sessions depends heavily on how light the headphones feel. The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones weigh 8.4 ounces. This lighter mass reduces pressure on your head and neck. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones weigh 1.06 pounds. One pound equals 16 ounces, making the Ultra significantly heavier at approximately 16.96 ounces. The weight difference is substantial. You may notice the strain more with the Ultra model during all-day wear. The standard QuietComfort is the better choice if you prioritize minimal weight and reduced physical fatigue.
connectivity
Edge: Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Connection options determine how you pair and use your devices. Both models support Bluetooth and multipoint connectivity. This allows you to switch between devices without disconnecting. The QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones include a wired option. You can plug in an audio cable with an inline microphone to use them without Bluetooth or when the battery is dead. The QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones emphasize USB-C connectivity. They support high-quality two-way communication via USB-C for calls and conferencing. The standard model offers more versatile wired listening options for non-Bluetooth scenarios.
design
Edge: Tie
Physical design impacts both aesthetics and fit. The QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones come in Cypress Green and other colors. They feature plush earcup cushions and a padded band for comfort. The dimensions are 6.18 inches wide, 7.68 inches high, and 3.15 inches long. The QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones come in Midnight Violet and other shades. They have a refined metal headband and plush cushions. Their dimensions are 6.12 inches wide, 2.19 inches high, and 8.41 inches long. The Ultra has a wider stance but a lower profile height. The standard model is taller and narrower. Choose based on your preferred fit and color options.
Choose based on battery or spatial audio
Travelers needing all-day battery life
Our pick: Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones provide up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge. You can also gain 2.5 hours of additional listening from just a 15-minute charge. This endurance makes them ideal for long flights or workdays where you cannot easily access a power outlet.
Users wanting immersive spatial audio
Our pick: Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones feature breakthrough spatialized audio. This technology places sound in front of you rather than inside your head. You also get Cinema Mode for video content and Immersion Mode that combines noise cancellation with Bose Immersive Audio for a more engaging experience.
Callers using USB-C connection
Our pick: Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones support USB-C voice connections for high-quality two-way communication. They include noise-rejecting mics with AI-based background noise suppression. This setup filters out surroundings and wind, ensuring your voice remains clear during phone calls and video conferences when connected via USB-C.
Listeners preferring lighter weight
Our pick: Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones weigh 8.4 ounces. This is significantly lighter than the 1.06 pounds of the Ultra model. You may prefer this reduced weight for extended wearing sessions, especially if you prioritize a less heavy feel on your head and ears during daily use.
Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Best for: Long listening sessions with noise cancellation
- Noise Control
- Quiet Mode, Aware Mode
- Battery Life
- Up to 24 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, Audio Cable
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Connection
- Wireless
- Features
- Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Microphone, Long Playtime
The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones deliver active noise cancellation with two distinct listening modes. You get 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, plus a quick-charge feature for extra playtime. The design includes plush earcup cushions and a padded band for comfort during long sessions. You can adjust bass, mid-range, and treble via an adjustable EQ. The headphones support multipoint Bluetooth connectivity and include a wired option with an in-line microphone.
- 24-hour battery life on a single charge
- Active noise cancellation with Quiet and Aware modes
- Adjustable EQ for custom sound control
- Multipoint Bluetooth for seamless device switching
- Wired listening option with in-line microphone
- Heavier build at 8.4 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Standard regular size without compact folding options
- No spatial audio or immersive audio features listed
- You need reliable active noise cancellation for travel or office use
- You prefer customizable sound profiles through adjustable EQ settings
- You require multipoint Bluetooth connectivity for multiple devices
- You prioritize lightweight portability and compact storage
- You want immersive spatial audio experiences
- You need a headphone under 8 ounces in weight
Verdict: Bose QuietComfort Over-Ear Wireless Headphones suit listeners who value solid noise cancellation and customizable sound over ultra-lightweight portability.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones
Best for: immersive spatial audio and noise cancellation
- Noise Control
- Noise Cancelling, Aware Mode
- Battery Life
- Up to 30 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Spatial Audio
- Spatial Audio, Cinema Mode
- Connection
- Wireless
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) is an over-ear wireless headphone featuring spatial audio and active noise cancellation. It offers up to 30 hours of battery life and includes a USB-C port for charging and calls. The design uses plush cushions and a metal headband for comfort. CustomTune technology adapts sound to your ears. This model suits listeners who want immersive audio and strong noise isolation for travel or work.
- Spatial audio with Cinema Mode for immersive video
- Up to 30 hours of battery life
- CustomTune technology for personalized sound
- USB-C voice communication support
- Heavier build at 1.06 pounds
- 30-hour battery life is lower than the 24-hour alternative
- You want spatial audio for movies and music
- You need strong noise cancellation for travel
- You prefer plush over-ear comfort for long sessions
- You prioritize the lightest possible weight
- You need the longest battery life available
- You prefer a compact on-ear fit
Verdict: The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Over-Ear delivers immersive spatial audio and solid noise cancellation for travelers. It fits users who value rich, personalized sound and do not mind a slightly heavier build.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones | Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Control | Quiet Mode, Aware Mode | Noise Cancelling, Aware Mode |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Audio Cable | Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C |
| Form Factor | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Spatial Audio | – | Spatial Audio, Cinema Mode |
| Connection | Wireless | Wireless |
| Fit | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Features | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Microphone, Long Playtime | Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, Microphone, Spatial Audio |
| Dimensions | 3.15 × 6.18 × 7.68 inches | 8.41 × 6.12 × 2.19 inches |
| Weight | 8.4 ounces | 1.06 pounds |
| Size | Regular | – |
| Color | Cypress Green | Midnight Violet |
| Model | 884367-0300 | 890101-0300 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Bose headphones are lighter to carry?
The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are lighter. They weigh 8.4 ounces. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones weigh 1.06 pounds. You will notice the difference when carrying them in a bag for travel. The standard model is easier to hold for long periods.
Do both models have active noise cancelling?
Yes, both models include active noise cancelling. You can use this feature to block out background noise. The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones list this as a key feature. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones also include it. Both provide solid noise cancellation for your listening sessions.
Which headphones offer spatial audio?
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones offer spatial audio. This feature creates an immersive sound experience. The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones do not list this feature. If you want personalized, rich sound with spatial effects, the Ultra model is the better choice for your needs.
Are both headphones wireless?
Yes, both headphones are wireless. They both use Bluetooth for connection. You can listen without cables attached to your device. This allows you to move freely while using them. Both models support this wireless connectivity for your daily use.
Which model is better for long listening sessions?
The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones suit long sessions. They provide up to 24 hours of playtime. You can also get 2.5 hours from a 15-minute charge. This endurance makes them practical for long commutes or workdays without frequent recharging.
Do both models include a microphone?
Yes, both models include a microphone. You can use it for calls or voice commands. The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Headphones list this feature. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones also list it. You can take calls clearly with either pair.
What are the size differences between the two?
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) Headphones have a different shape. Their height is 2.19 inches and length is 8.41 inches. The standard model is 7.68 inches high and 3.15 inches long. The Ultra model is wider and taller, affecting how they fit in your bag.