Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones (2nd Gen), Wireless Headphones with Spatial Audio, Over Ear Noise Cancelling with Mic, Up to 30 Hours of Play time, Black
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AI Verdict
These are 1.06-pound over-ear headphones with 30-hour battery life and active noise cancellation, ideal for users prioritizing quiet and comfort over extensive sound customization.
These headphones are a strong fit for users prioritizing comfort and noise cancellation for extended periods, offering a 30-hour battery life and a lightweight 1.06-pound design. The inclusion of USB-C lossless audio and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity enhances their utility for modern devices.
If you need more granular control over sound, look for headphones with a multi-band parametric equalizer in their companion app.
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Pros
- Active Noise Cancellation effectively reduces background noise like bus rumble and plane cabin din, with a reported 87% average reduction in perceived loudness.
- Offers up to 30 hours of play time with Immersive Audio enabled, extending to 45 hours without ANC.
- Features USB-C audio for lossless sound transmission and simultaneous charging.
- Designed with angled drivers, a padded headband, and ample ear cup space, making them comfortable for extended wear without ear pressure.
- Includes Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless codecs for high-quality, low-latency wireless audio.
- Transparency mode is described as natural-sounding, allowing clear hearing of surroundings without excessive compression.
Cons
- The Bose Music app is limited, lacking a comprehensive equalizer (only 3-band EQ) and experiencing issues like not opening from notifications or automatic multipoint switching.
- Microphone quality, while improved from the previous generation, is still not considered top-tier and does not function when using wired connections.
- Spatial audio (Immersive Audio and Cinema Mode) receives mixed feedback, with some users finding it attempts to replicate speakers rather than providing true immersion.
- Some users report a subtle ANC hiss in quiet environments, even though it's reduced from the Gen 1.
- Controls are described as a mix of capacitive touch and buttons that perform multiple functions, leading to a less intuitive user experience.
Dimension Scores
The sound profile is described as having emphasized bass and clear vocals, with improved balance over the Gen 1, though the in-app EQ is limited to 3 bands.
ANC is consistently praised as among the best available, reducing perceived loudness by an average of 87% and effectively blocking out environmental sounds like trains and office noise.
The 1.06-pound headphones are noted for their lightweight design, ample padding, and deep ear cups that prevent ear pressure, making them suitable for all-day wear.
With up to 30 hours of play time (23 with Immersive Audio) and 45 hours without ANC, the battery life is above average for the category.
Best For
- Long-haul flights or daily commutes where strong noise cancellation is essential.
- Work-from-home setups requiring extended comfort and effective background noise reduction.
- Users who prioritize a lightweight design and comfortable fit for prolonged listening sessions.
- Android users with devices supporting aptX Adaptive/Lossless codecs seeking high-fidelity wireless audio.
Not Recommended For
- Audiophiles demanding extensive EQ customization or a neutral sound profile out of the box.
- Users who frequently make calls via wired headphone connections, as the microphone is disabled in this mode.
- Individuals seeking a premium-feeling build with minimal plastic components, as the ear cups and exterior headband are largely plastic.
Watch Out For
- The in-app equalizer is limited to 3 bands, preventing detailed sound tuning for specific genres or preferences.
- The microphone does not work when connected via USB-C or 3.5mm analog cables, limiting wired communication options.
- The app's multipoint feature does not automatically switch between devices, requiring manual intervention.
- Folding the headphones up can disable the 'lay flat to pause' feature, potentially draining the battery if not manually powered off.
- Some users report the earcups feeling less sturdy or having too much play compared to previous generations.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 017817859585 |
| ASIN | B0FDKR293G |
| Brand | Bose |
| Color | Black |
| Style | Modern |
| Units | 1.0 Count |
| Material | Plastic |
| Batteries | 1 12V batteries required. |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Generation | 2 |
| Model Name | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen), Black |
| Form Factor | Over Ear |
| Item Weight | 1.06 pounds |
| Battery Life | 30 Hours |
| Control Type | Button Control |
| Manufacturer | Bose |
| Cable Feature | Detachable |
| Charging Time | 3 Hours |
| Ear Placement | Over Ear |
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancellation |
| Series Number | 2 |
| Control Method | App, Push Button |
| Earpiece Shape | Over-Ear Cup |
| Bluetooth Range | 30 Feet |
| Controller Type | App |
| Headphones Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.4 |
| Item model number | 890101-0100 |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphones |
| Hardware Interface | Bluetooth |
| Product Dimensions | 8.41 x 6.12 x 2.19 inches |
| Carrying Case Color | Black |
| Included Components | Audio cable 2.5mm-to-3.5mm, Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen), Protective Case, Safety sheet, USB cable C-to-C |
| Carrying Case Material | Synthetic |
| Input Device Interface | Bluetooth, Audio jack |
| Noise Control Features | active_noise_cancellation |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Connectivity Technology | Wireless |
| Specific Uses For Product | Entertainment, Fitness, Travel |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Calling |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | Yes |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
What Buyers Say
The biggest takeaway from users is that these headphones nail comfort and noise cancellation, making them a go-to for long sessions, even if the sound isn't always perfect out of the box. Many users noted the app is a bit clunky and the EQ options are too basic, which is a bummer for a premium product. The spatial audio and new Cinema Mode get mixed reactions, with some finding them underwhelming. However, the USB-C audio for lossless listening and simultaneous charging is a definite win for many.
“Honestly, these are super comfy and the noise canceling is insane, like, I can actually focus at work now. But the app? Ugh, it's so basic, and why can't I use the mic when it's plugged in?! Still, my ears don't hurt after 8 hours, so I guess I'm keeping them.”
Common Praise
- ANC effectively blocks out trains and office noise, making commutes much quieter.
- Extremely comfortable for long sessions, feeling lightweight and not causing ear fatigue.
- USB-C audio allows for lossless listening and charging at the same time, a significant improvement.
- Transparency mode sounds natural and doesn't compress frequencies like some competitors.
- Bass response is powerful, deep, and controlled, not overpowering mids or trebles.
- Vocals are clear and articulate, with good instrument separation.
Common Complaints
- The Bose Music app is disappointing; it doesn't open from notifications, and multipoint switching isn't automatic.
- The in-app EQ is too basic, only offering 3 bands for adjustment, limiting sound customization.
- Microphone quality is only 'fine' for calls and doesn't work when wired, which is a letdown for a premium headset.
- Some users still detect a subtle ANC hiss in very quiet environments, even if less pronounced than Gen 1.
- The physical controls are an 'odd mix' of capacitive touch and multi-function buttons, making them less intuitive to use.
- Build quality, while durable, uses a lot of plastic for the ear cups and exterior headband, feeling less premium than the price suggests.
Ownership Tips
- The sound experience can improve noticeably after about a week, possibly due to the CustomTune feature adapting to ear shape.
- The ear cup material might start peeling after 2-3 years of heavy use, but Bose offers replacement ear cups.
- The 'lay flat to pause' feature can be defeated if the headphones are folded up, potentially leading to unexpected battery drain.
- The headphones are not ideal for gym use, despite being comfortable, as they lack ingress protection.
- While lightweight, the plastic construction for some parts can make them feel less 'premium' than their price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the microphone work when connected with a cable?
No, the built-in microphone is disabled when the headphones are connected via USB-C or the 3.5mm analog cable.
Can I turn off noise cancellation completely?
Yes, the QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) allows you to completely disable noise cancellation, which was not possible on the first generation.
What Bluetooth codecs do these headphones support?
They support SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless, offering high-quality and low-latency options for compatible devices.
How long does the battery last?
The headphones provide up to 30 hours of listening with Immersive Audio, and up to 45 hours if ANC is disabled.
Is the spatial audio feature effective?
User opinions are mixed; some find the spatial audio and Cinema Mode attempt to replicate speakers in a room rather than providing a truly immersive experience.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at over-ear headphones, think about how long you'll wear them and where. If you're commuting or working in noisy places, noise cancellation is key. Comfort is also huge for long sessions – a lightweight design and ample ear cup space prevent fatigue. Don't just look at battery life; consider if it holds up with features like spatial audio enabled.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
This isn't just about making things quieter; it actively cancels out low-frequency sounds like engine hums or office chatter, letting you focus or relax without cranking the volume too high, which protects your hearing.
Battery Life (30 Hours)
This tells you how long you can listen without needing to recharge. 30 hours is enough for multiple long flights or a full work week, meaning less anxiety about finding an outlet and more uninterrupted listening.
Weight (1.06 pounds)
A lighter headphone means less pressure on your head and neck over time. Imagine wearing a heavy hat for hours – a lighter pair, like these at 1.06 pounds, makes a huge difference in comfort for extended use.
USB-C Audio
This isn't just for charging; it allows for a direct, digital audio connection. Think of it like a super-clear, uncompressed pipeline for your music, often resulting in better sound quality than standard Bluetooth, especially if your device supports lossless audio.
Alternatives
If these don't fit, look for headphones with a more comprehensive, multi-band equalizer in their app for detailed sound customization, or those with a microphone that functions across all wired and wireless connections.
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