Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) Review 2026: ANC, Comfort, and Sound Quality

Bose built its reputation on two words: Quiet and Comfort. The QuietComfort Ultra Headphones — the second generation of Bose's flagship — deliver on both more convincingly than any headphone before them. After testing against the Sony XM6, AirPods Max, and Sennheiser Momentum 4, here is the verdict.

Comfort: Unmatched

At ~234g with deeper earcups and lighter clamping force than any competitor, the QC Ultra is the comfortable choice for long flights and all-day wear. The memory foam earpads breathe better than Sony's synthetic leather. If comfort is your #1 criteria, Bose wins — no contest.

Noise Cancellation: Best-in-Class Low Frequency

Bose cancels 2–3 dB more low-frequency rumble (planes, trains, HVAC) than the Sony XM6. Sony wins at mid-frequency cancellation (voices, office chatter). For commuters and frequent flyers, Bose is the better ANC pick. Check price

Sound Quality and Immersive Audio

Bose's sound signature is more neutral than Sony's — clearer mids, more controlled bass. The Immersive Audio feature creates a convincing spatial soundstage from stereo sources, and unlike Sony 360 Reality Audio, it works with any content. However, the soundstage in still mode is narrower than the Sennheiser Momentum 4.

For wired studio headphones without ANC, browse our headphones category and headphone buying guide for mixing-focused picks.