Head-to-head · Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Bose QuietComfort Ultra vs Sony WH-1000XM5

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

Sony WH-1000XM5 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.2 vs 4.7). The gap is mostly about Travelers prioritizing call quality and top-tier noise cancellation — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #5 in Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

4.2

$429as of Apr 22

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

$429 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Sony WH-1000XM5

4.7

$399as of Apr 22

The Sony WH-1000XM5 delivers top-tier active noise cancellation and significantly improved sound quality with precise bass and clear highs, making it a leader in the flagship ANC category. While the new design offers superior comfort for larger ears and excellent call performance, the headphones lack an IP rating and feature a non-folding build that feels slightly less premium than their predecessors.

Strengths

— Outstanding active noise cancellation performance that excels in travel and office environments
— Sensational sonic clarity with punchy delivery and precise, agile bass
— Deep and wide ear pads accommodate larger ears for extended comfort

Watch-outs

— Build quality feels less premium than previous generations with a non-folding design
— No IP rating makes them vulnerable to moisture and unsuitable for gym use or rain
— High launch price compared to previous models

$399 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

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.

Sony WH-1000XM5

The Sony WH-1000XM5 surpasses the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Apple AirPods Max in microphone clarity and bass precision, offering the most agile sound profile in the group. However, unlike the sturdy metal build of the AirPods Max or the luxurious Nappa leather of the Bowers & Wilkins Px8, the Sony's non-folding design feels less premium and it lacks the 60-hour battery life found in the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Bose QuietComfort Ultra	Sony WH-1000XM5
Driver Type	Bose custom	Dynamic
Bluetooth Version	5.3	5.2
Weight	250g	250 g
Charging Method	USB-C	USB-C
Codecs	AAC, aptX Adaptive	SBC, AAC, LDAC
ANC	Yes	Yes
Battery Life	24h	30 hours
Driver Size	—	30 mm

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