The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (QC Ultra) headphones have long held a reputation as one of the most comfortable noise-cancelling headphones on the market. The second generation, released in October 2025, refines that formula with subtle improvements rather than bold innovations. While these headphones don’t revolutionize anything, they solidify Bose’s place as a top contender in the premium headphone space.
The most noticeable changes are welcome additions for existing QC Ultra users: wired passive playback is finally here (via both auxiliary and USB-C cables), eliminating a frustrating quirk of the first generation. Bose also tackled multipoint connectivity issues often reported with its headphones, delivering a smooth experience across paired devices. Wear detection, both on-head and a new “lay flat” mode for low power consumption when stored, is consistently reliable, showcasing an attention to detail that elevates user experience.
Battery life sees a bump from 24 to 30 hours, aligning with industry standards for high-end headphones. Another plus: three hours of playback can be squeezed out after just 15 minutes of charging.
Comfort Remains King
Bose continues its winning streak in comfort. While the second generation doesn’t drastically overhaul the design, the ear cushions feel slightly firmer than their predecessors while retaining that signature plushness. The removable cushions are a bonus, promising longevity even with heavy use. The overall fit is consistently excellent across various scenarios – whether you’re wearing glasses or earrings – making them ideal for all-day wear.
Sound Quality: Good, but Not Groundbreaking
Bose delivers solid sound quality across genres, highlighting detail and clarity in both bass and treble frequencies. There’s a richness to the audio profile that works well with everything from classic rock to synth-heavy pop to orchestral scores. However, compared to competitors like Sony’s WH-1000XM6, which offer a more nuanced and refined listening experience with a richer sonic palette, the QC Ultra 2 falls slightly short.
Bose’s three-band equalizer and four preset options feel somewhat basic at this price point, especially when contrasted with Sony’s more robust customization features.
Noise Cancellation: Solid, But Not Unchallenged
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 retains its reputation for top-tier active noise cancellation (ANC). While the ANC may not quite match the absolute silence achieved by the Sony XM6, it remains excellent at blocking out ambient noise. Bose’s standout feature here is its adjustable ANC slider in the companion app, allowing users to fine-tune the level of suppression based on their environment.
While impressive, the QC Ultra 2 does struggle slightly with sudden spikes in high-pitched noises – like a barking dog or a leaf blower – which can sometimes pierce through the ANC.
A Few New Tricks: Cinema Mode and More
Bose introduces “Cinema Mode,” designed to enhance movie listening with more immersive audio effects. However, it primarily feels louder than truly enveloping, lacking the noticeable sonic depth one might expect. The improved spatial audio mode (called “Immersive Audio” by Bose) offers a wider soundscape but can sometimes sound overly echoey, especially for those who aren’t avid spatial audio enthusiasts.
Who Should Buy Them?
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 headphones are best suited for users prioritizing comfort and reliable ANC above all else. If you value a well-rounded experience with the latest features, minor improvements over an already solid package make these headphones compelling. However, if audiophile-grade sound quality is your top priority, explore alternatives like the Sony WH-1000XM6.
In Conclusion: The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 delivers on its promise of premium comfort and effective noise cancellation while refining minor areas that previously lacked polish. While not a dramatic leap forward, these headphones offer a refined listening experience for those seeking daily reliability and all-day wearability.
