Head-to-head · Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Apple AirPods Max vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Apple AirPods Max comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.4 vs 4.2). The gap is mostly about Apple ecosystem users valuing build quality and seamless integration — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Apple AirPods Max

4.4

$549as of Apr 22

The Apple AirPods Max deliver premium sound quality and industry-leading noise cancellation within a luxurious, durable metal build. However, their high price is compounded by significant drawbacks like a non-protective smart case, the lack of a 3.5mm jack, and limited functionality outside the Apple ecosystem. They are an excellent choice for dedicated Apple users but less ideal for those seeking versatility or better value.

Strengths

— Best-in-class active noise canceling and transparency mode
— Sturdy all-metal build with stainless steel headband and aluminum ear cups
— Extremely comfortable ear pads with soft fabric and even weight distribution

Watch-outs

— Smart case provides virtually no protection and is considered terrible
— No 3.5mm headphone jack, requiring an adapter for wired listening
— Proximity sensors and voice assistant features do not work on Android or Windows

$549 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #5 in Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

4.2

$329as of Jun 7

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones deliver top-tier noise cancellation and exceptional comfort, making them a strong upgrade for daily travelers and commuters. However, the lack of water resistance and the premium price tag may deter some buyers, alongside minor reports of audio channel inconsistencies.

Strengths

— Industry-leading Active Noise Cancelling with CustomTune calibration
— Exceptional comfort with soft padding and a lightweight 253g design
— Supports high-quality audio codecs including aptX Adaptive and Snapdragon Sound

Watch-outs

— No IP rating for water or sweat resistance
— High retail price point compared to competitors
— Some users reported occasional channel matching issues

$329 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Apple AirPods Max

The Apple AirPods Max offer a unique all-metal build and durability that the plastic-heavy Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra cannot match, alongside a superior transparency mode. However, they are significantly heavier than the Bose and Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless, lack a 3.5mm jack unlike the Sennheiser and Bowers & Wilkins Px8, and suffer from a non-protective case that no other competitor in this list shares.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

While the Bose QuietComfort Ultra matches the Sony WH-1000XM5 in noise cancellation prowess, it distinguishes itself with superior lightweight comfort that outshines the heavier Bowers & Wilkins Px8. It falls short of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless in battery endurance and lacks the premium metal construction of the Apple AirPods Max, making it a comfort-first choice rather than a durability or battery king.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Apple AirPods Max	Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Driver Size	40 mm	—
Driver Type	Dynamic	Bose custom
Bluetooth Version	5.0	5.3
Weight	386 g	250g
Charging Method	Lightning connector	USB-C
Codecs	AAC, SBC	AAC, aptX Adaptive
ANC	yes	Yes
Battery Life	20 hours	24h

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