Headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Best For
- Commuters seeking top-tier noise cancellation
- Audiophiles who value spatial audio
- Active individuals needing durable earbuds
Consider Carefully
- Users needing multipoint Bluetooth
- Those who prefer wireless charging without extra costs
Jump to Section
The Bottom Line
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are a strong entrant in the premium noise-cancelling headphone market, earning an 85/100 score from expert reviews. What we found particularly striking is their best-in-class active noise cancellation, a feature that's been lauded by sources like theverge.com and techradar.com. This feature, coupled with spatial audio that works seamlessly across various content and devices, positions these earbuds as a solid choice for audiophiles and commuters. The earbuds also impress with their refined microphone array, delivering clearer call quality, and an IPX4 rating that makes them suitable for active use in the rain or during workouts. However, there are some trade-offs. The lack of wireless charging without a separate purchase and the absence of multipoint Bluetooth connectivity in 2023 might be deal-breakers for some users.
Performance Breakdown
Expert Scores
How 8 professional publications rated this product
In-Depth Analysis
Active Noise Cancellation 95
Six sources, no meaningful dissent: this is the best ANC in any earbud on the market right now. If blocking noise is your primary job, nothing else competes.
Key Takeaway
→If ANC is the reason you're buying earbuds, buy these. If you're upgrading from QuietComfort Earbuds 2, wait for a sale.
Comfort & Fit 86
Most reviewers found these comfortable for long sessions, but TechGearLab flagged ear fatigue after about an hour and called them unsuitable for intense workouts.
Key Takeaway
→Excellent for commuting and travel. If you're doing intense workouts or need all-day wear without fatigue, look at the QuietComfort Earbuds 2 instead.
Sound Quality 86
Reviewers agree the sound is good, but the default tuning is bass-heavy and non-neutral. EQ helps, but you'll need to use it.
Key Takeaway
→Great for bass-forward listening out of the box. If you want a neutral or analytical sound, plan to spend time in the EQ settings.
Spatial Audio 82
Bose's Immersive Audio is genuinely device-agnostic, which sets it apart from Apple and Sony's ecosystem-locked implementations. Battery drain is the real cost.
Key Takeaway
→If spatial audio matters to you and you're not in the Apple ecosystem, this is the strongest cross-platform implementation available. Budget for shorter battery life when using it.
Call Quality 81
Reviewers are split. TechRadar, CNET, and The Guardian found call quality strong. Tom's Guide and Digital Trends called it inconsistent, especially outdoors.
Key Takeaway
→Reliable for indoor and office calls. If you take a lot of calls outdoors or in noisy environments, the inconsistency is a real problem.
Connectivity Features 74
Multipoint Bluetooth arrived via a 2024 update, fixing the biggest complaint at launch. Android users with Snapdragon devices get the full feature set. iPhone users get less.
Key Takeaway
→Android users with a Snapdragon device get the best experience here. iPhone users and anyone needing seamless multi-device switching should verify the 2024 multipoint update meets their needs before buying.
Battery Life 70
Six hours of battery is below average for this price, and Immersive Audio mode cuts that further. Four sources flagged this as a genuine weakness.
Key Takeaway
→If you're a frequent flyer using ANC all day, carry the case. If you want Immersive Audio on long trips, you'll need to manage usage carefully.
Charging Case 59
The case has real problems: no wireless charging without a separate $49 purchase, a flimsy hinge, and durability concerns that Reddit users describe as potentially systemic.
Key Takeaway
→Factor in the $49 wireless charging cover if that matters to you, and go in with realistic expectations about long-term durability.
Specifications & Verdict
Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- 5.3
- Bluetooth Range
- 10 Meters
- Bluetooth Version
- 5.3
- Codec Support
- SBC, AAC
- Control Method
- Touch
- Control Type
- App Control
- Controller Type
- Touch
- Multipoint Pairing
- Yes
- Chip
- Qualcomm 5-series
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Adaptive support
- Multipoint_support
- Two devices (added July 2024)
- Sensors
- IMU chip (gyroscope with accelerometer)
- Special_features
- Snapdragon Sound Technology Suite, Google Fast Pair
Ergonomics
- Anc_levels
- 10
- Case_features
- LED status lights, pairing button
- Case_finish
- smooth and matte
- Controls
- touch and head gesture
- Design_feature
- rubberized guard to prevent ear wax buildup
- Ear_tips
- three sets
- Ear_tips_included
- small, medium, large
- Fit
- shallower than similarly stable earbuds
- Fit_options
- Three stability bands and three separate tips
- In-Ear_shape
- ovoid
- Stabilizers
- three sizes
- Tip_material
- silicone
- Wax_guards
- Included (in-ear)
Features
- Hi-Res Audio/Spatial Audio
- Yes/yes
- Multipoint
- Yes
- Water/Dust Resistance
- IPX4
- Adaptive_anc
- ActiveSense (improved)
- App_features
- Charging case battery life display, option to disable touch controls
- Call_quality_feature
- Bose SpeechClarity (AI-based background noise suppression)
- Certification
- Snapdragon Sound
- Features
- Snapdragon Sound, Google Fast Pair
- Microphones
- eight
- Sensors
- IMU chip (gyroscope with accelerometer)
- Special_features
- Immersive Audio with head-tracking, Snapdragon Sound Technology Suite, Google Fast Pair
Performance
- Tonal Balance / Transparency
- 8.7
- Usability / Connectivity
- 9.5
- Audio_codecs
- AAC, aptX Adaptive (with Snapdragon Sound-enabled devices)
- Audio_technology
- Bose Immersive Audio
- Battery_life
- Approx. 6 hours
- Case_charges
- 3 additional charges
- Codec
- SBC (when using microphone)
- Codec_support
- aptX Adaptive
- Latency
- above 100 ms
- Spatial_audio
- Bose Immersive Audio
Physical
- Colours
- Black, White Smoke, Deep Plum
- Finishes
- x 2 (Black, White Smoke)
- Case_finish
- smooth and matte
- Charging_case_dimensions
- 59.4 x 66.3 x 26.7mm
- Charging_case_weight
- 59.8g
- Colors
- Black, White Smoke, Deep Plum (available later)
- Earbud_dimensions
- 17.2 x 30.5 x 22.4mm
- Earbud_weight
- 6.24g each
- Model
- QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)
- Price
- $299
- Size_charging_case
- 2.61 x 2.34 x 1.05 inches
- Size_per_bud
- 1.23 x 0.96 x 0.79 inches
- Weight_charging_case
- 2.1 ounces
- Weight_per_bud
- 0.27 ounces
- Weight_per_earbud
- 7.1 grams
Power
- Battery Charge Time
- 2 Hours
- Battery Life (Immersive Audio On)
- 4 hrs
- Battery Life (ANC On)
- 6 hrs
- Carrying Case Battery Average Life
- 12 Hours
- Carrying Case Battery Charging Time
- 2 Hours
- Total Battery With Case
- ~24 hrs
- Wireless Charging
- No
- Case_charging
- USB-C
- Charging
- USB-C
Our Verdict
If you're after the best noise cancellation in a pair of earbuds and the added benefit of spatial audio, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are a great choice. But if you're looking for multipoint connectivity or wireless charging without additional costs, you might want to explore other options.
Customer Reviews Amazon
9,890 reviews
Superb Eabuds
I don't work in an office.
About as enjoyable as earbuds can get. Amazing.
Great ANC, terrible Bluetooth connection
Show all 7 reviews
Trop fragiles
Besser als Apple
Ecouteurs pratique avec un super son
Reviews shown are from Amazon customers and do not reflect our editorial assessment.
Pricing & Availability
Updated Apr 21, 2026Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Sources & Methodology
Every score is built on evidence. This review synthesizes 36 independent sources — expert publications, video reviews, and community discussions — weighted by credibility, depth, and relevance.
Show detailed source analysis ↓ Hide source analysis ↑
Expert Reviews
theverge.com
Top
8/10-point
Bose released the $299 QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds just one year after their predecessors, an unusually fast refresh cycle for earbuds. The new model adds proprietary Immersive Audio spatial processing, Snapdragon Sound certification with AptX Adaptive support for compatible Android devices, improved microphone quality, and redesigned stabilizer fins with easier application grooves. Otherwise, core specifications remain unchanged: identical sound quality, six-hour battery life, IPX4 water resistance, and class-leading active noise cancellation. The Immersive Audio feature offers two modes—still and motion—for head-tracked spatial audio, though it significantly drains battery. Notable omissions persist: no multipoint Bluetooth connectivity in 2023, and wireless charging requires a separate $49 case purchase.
Strengths
- +Most powerful ANC available in any earbuds
- +Lively, rich sound with clean treble and full bass
- +Redesigned stabilizer fins are easier to apply
- +Excellent transparency mode with ActiveSense loud noise reduction
Weaknesses
- −Immersive Audio mode significantly drains battery life
- −No multipoint Bluetooth connectivity in 2023
- −Wireless charging requires separate $49 case purchase
- −Rapid replacement cycle frustrates recent buyers of predecessor
techradar.com
Top
4.5/5-point
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds offer incremental upgrades over their 2022 predecessor, most notably through Snapdragon Sound certification with aptX Adaptive support and proprietary Immersive Audio technology that delivers head-tracked spatial audio. Physical design remains largely unchanged, with only minor refinements to the silicone stability bands and microphone array for clearer calls. The active noise cancellation maintains its class-leading position, though the vigorous sonic presentation lacks additional dynamic refinement. A July 2024 software update added multipoint connectivity to two devices, addressing a significant earlier limitation. Wireless charging remains absent without purchasing a separate cover, and the bulky case design persists.
Strengths
- +Best-in-class active noise cancellation performance
- +Device-agnostic head-tracked immersive audio technology
- +aptX Adaptive lossless audio codec support
- +Clearer call quality from refined microphone array
Weaknesses
- −Case lacks wireless charging without separate cover purchase
- −Physically bulky build similar to previous generation
- −Silicone stability bands wear out and compromise seal
- −Single-device connectivity at launch since resolved
tomsguide.com
Top
4/5-point
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds deliver exceptional active noise cancelation that ranks best-in-class, paired with impressive immersive audio technology that creates a premium listening experience. The redesigned stability fins provide a more comfortable and secure fit than the previous generation, making them suitable for all-day wear and light exercise. The metallic finish on the control pads adds visual appeal. However, at $299, notable omissions include wireless charging (requiring a $49 accessory purchase), lack of multi-point Bluetooth connectivity, and inconsistent call quality. The companion app offers extensive customization options including an Earbud Seal test for optimizing fit and ANC performance.
Strengths
- +Best-in-class active noise cancelation performance
- +Immersive audio technology creates standout spatial sound
- +Redesigned stability fins improve comfort and security
- +IPX4 rating withstands rain and sweat for active use
Weaknesses
- −Charging case lacks wireless charging capability
- −No multi-point Bluetooth for simultaneous device connection
- −Call quality is inconsistent and mixed
- −Wireless charging case requires separate $49 purchase
techgearlab.com
Top
4.8/5-point
These earbuds deliver exceptional noise cancellation that noticeably improves focus and productivity by blocking distractions effectively. The elongated design accommodates larger drivers but creates fit challenges for some users, with ear fatigue occurring after about an hour of wear. Setup works reliably though iPhone pairing proves less smooth than Android. The smooth matte case offers good grip and helpful LED battery indicators. Nine fit combinations from three tip and stability band sizes help customize comfort. Touch and head gesture controls handle volume, tracks, and calls. IPX4 rating protects against sweat and light rain. Call quality remains excellent with clear transmission in both directions. Battery life falls shorter than some alternatives. The immersive audio experience justifies the premium price for those prioritizing sound quality and noise blocking above all else.
Strengths
- +Exceptional active noise cancellation blocks distractions effectively
- +Clear call quality in both directions across environments
- +Nine fit combinations with three tip and band sizes
- +Smooth matte case with helpful LED battery indicators
Weaknesses
- −Larger size causes ear fatigue after about an hour
- −iPhone pairing less smooth than Android
- −Case bulkier than many competitors
- −Not stable enough for intense sweaty workouts
cnet.com
Top
8.9/10-point
The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds represent a modest 2023 refresh rather than a major upgrade. Fit Kit ear tips and stabilizer bands provide secure, comfortable wear despite their larger size. Immersive Audio spatial audio with head-tracking creates a novel listening experience but reduces battery life from six to four hours. Voice-calling sees subtle improvements through dynamic microphone mixing. The IPX4 splash-proof design adds minor aesthetic refinements like metallic treatment. Missing features at the $299 price point include wireless charging and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity. AptX Adaptive codec support exists but proved difficult to activate in testing across multiple devices.
Strengths
- +Excellent sound quality with best-in-class active noise canceling
- +Fit Kit ear tips and stabilizer system ensure secure, comfortable fit
- +Immersive Audio spatial audio creates unique listening experience
- +Slightly improved voice-calling with dynamic microphone mixing
Weaknesses
- −No wireless charging included at $299 price point
- −Lacks multipoint Bluetooth connectivity
- −Immersive Audio mode significantly reduces battery life
- −AptX Adaptive codec difficult to activate across devices
digitaltrends.com
Top
8/10-point
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds deliver excellent comfort for extended wear, with an ergonomic design combining silicone eartips and stability bands that stay securely anchored. Sound quality is exceptional, featuring hi-res and lossless audio alongside top-tier active noise cancellation that performs impressively during air travel. Spatial audio stands out as a key strength. The touch controls work reliably, including intuitive swipe gestures for volume. However, the charging case disappoints with weak magnets, hinge flex, and no built-in wireless charging—a $49 add-on cover is required. Outdoor call quality also lags behind expectations. A firmware update added Bluetooth multipoint, addressing a previous gap.
Strengths
- +Very comfortable for long listening sessions
- +Excellent sound quality with hi-res support
- +Top-tier active noise cancellation performance
- +Outstanding spatial audio implementation
Weaknesses
- −No built-in wireless charging capability
- −Outdoor call quality could be improved
- −Charging case lid lacks strong magnetic closure
- −Hinge flex gives case a low-quality feel
whathifi.com
Top
5/5-point
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds deliver punchy, musical sound with solid, weighty bass and excellent active noise cancellation. Comfort remains a standout strength, with super soft tips that maintain a great seal without burrowing into the ears. The design closely mirrors its predecessor, with minor tweaks including a metallic finish on the stems and improved stability band attachment. Battery life reaches 6 hours from the earbuds with an additional 18 hours from the case, though activating Immersive Audio spatial audio significantly reduces this. The IPX4 rating provides basic water resistance. Pricing has become more competitive with regular discounts available, making these earbuds a strong contender at the premium end of the market.
Strengths
- +Punchy, musical sound signature
- +Solid, weighty bass reproduction
- +Excellent active noise cancellation
- +Super soft tips with great seal
Weaknesses
- −Immersive Audio slashes battery life significantly
- −No wireless charging capability
soundguys.com
Top
7.3/10-point
These chunky wireless earbuds feature an ovoid-shaped nozzle designed to match human ear canal anatomy, providing a secure fit without excessive pressure. Each 7.1-gram earbud uses a metallic capacitive touchpad for controls that preserves the ear tip seal. The charging case includes a multifunction button, USB-C port, and complex LED status indicators in multiple colors. New Snapdragon Sound with aptX Lossless support enables Hi-Res audio and low-latency listening for compatible Android devices. IPX4 moisture resistance suits variable weather conditions. The reviewer tested firmware version 7.7.4 over five days.
Strengths
- +Ovoid nozzle shape matches ear canal anatomy for secure fit
- +Capacitive touchpad controls avoid breaking ear tip seal
- +Snapdragon Sound with aptX Lossless for Hi-Res audio
- +Low-latency listening via aptX Adaptive
Weaknesses
- −Chunky design may not suit all users
- −Overly complex LED indicator system with many unexplained patterns
- −Limited spatial audio support
- −Non-neutral frequency response
theguardian.com
The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds represent a modest upgrade over their predecessors, retaining the same six-hour battery life and overall design while adding metallic accents. The silicone tips and wings create a comfortable, secure fit with multiple sizing options. Noise cancelling remains class-leading, effectively blocking low rumbles and high-frequency sounds alike. The awareness mode sounds natural with automatic loud-noise reduction. New immersive audio creates virtual spatial sound that tracks head movement, working across all devices. Sound quality is clear and controlled with volume-dependent balancing, though bass-heavy by default. Android users benefit from Google Fast Pair and aptX Adaptive support. However, the charging case is bulkier than competitors, Bluetooth multipoint is absent, and the non-replaceable batteries make these ultimately disposable despite 500+ charge cycles.
Strengths
- +Class-leading noise cancelling for all frequency ranges
- +Comfortable secure fit with customizable tip and wing sizes
- +Natural-sounding awareness mode with loud-noise reduction
- +Immersive spatial audio works with any device brand
Weaknesses
- −Battery life unchanged at six hours behind some rivals
- −Charging case larger than best competitors
- −No Bluetooth multipoint for multiple device connections
- −Non-replaceable batteries make earbuds disposable
Video Reviews
Mike O'Brien
Testing revealed strong active noise cancellation performance, …
Testing revealed strong active noise cancellation performance, particularly for low-frequency sounds like jet engines where it blocked 65.2 decibels. The adaptive transparency mode includes a decibel limiter that prevents sudden loud sounds from causing discomfort. Wind handling was subjectively good, though not perfect. Microphone performance in quiet indoor settings was decent, with transparency mode activating during calls to make speaking feel more natural. However, outdoor microphone tests showed struggles with background noise. The earbuds offer 11 levels between transparency and ANC, though the ANC engine cannot be fully turned off, which impacts battery flexibility compared to competitors.
- →Best for frequent flyers needing strong low-frequency noise blocking
- →Suitable for office workers in variable noise environments
- →Good for outdoor use in windy conditions
- →Less ideal for those needing outdoor call clarity
- →Consider if you need full ANC disable for battery savings
SoundGuys
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds deliver exceptional active noise …
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds deliver exceptional active noise cancellation with about 30dB attenuation below 500Hz, effectively quieting engine noise and low rumbles. Design improvements include a stabilizing nub for the fin that prevents charging case issues, plus capacitive touch controls that preserve ear seal integrity. Battery life reaches approximately 6 hours 11 minutes at 75dB peaks. Audio codec support upgrades to aptX Adaptive with Snapdragon Sound compatibility, offering improved fidelity over previous models. However, the default sound signature suffers from severe bass overemphasis exceeding 15dB in sub-bass and bass regions, plus sharp treble emphasis that the limited three-band EQ struggles to correct. The immersive audio feature with head tracking exhibits noticeable lag and fails to enhance the listening experience meaningfully.
- →Best suited for frequent travelers prioritizing noise cancellation
- →Android users benefit more than iOS users from full feature set
- →Requires significant EQ patience for balanced sound
- →Wait for holiday sales before purchasing
- →Avoid if accurate frequency response is priority
Mike O'Brien
Testing revealed these earbuds achieve 65.2 decibel noise …
Testing revealed these earbuds achieve 65.2 decibel noise cancellation—the highest ever measured—effectively blocking jet engines and constant loud sounds. Wind performance impressed, with microphones successfully filtering gusts without feeding back into ANC. Nine fit combinations (three ear tips plus three wing tips) provided better stability than the previous generation, which had slipped out during extended wear. Snapdragon Sound certification adds Qualcomm AptX Adaptive codec support, delivering lower latency and higher resolution than the SBC/AAC-limited predecessor. Sound profile runs warm with capable bass, though default tuning skews boomy; EQ adjustment tames this effectively. Battery life context was cut off mid-sentence.
- →Ideal for frequent flyers needing maximum jet engine isolation
- →Best suited for phones with AptX Adaptive codec support
- →Worth using EQ to tame default bass-heavy tuning
- →Reliable choice for outdoor windy conditions
- →Improved fit suits those who found previous generation unstable
Mark Ellis Reviews
The reviewer was highly impressed with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra …
The reviewer was highly impressed with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, calling them the new standard for noise cancelling earbuds after previously recommending Apple's AirPods Pro 2. Priced at £299.95 in the UK, they feature immersive audio, Snapdragon sound with AptX adaptive, Google Fast Pair, IPX4 rating, and Bluetooth 5.3 with multi-point connectivity. Battery life reaches six hours per charge with 24 hours total including the case. The standout feature is CustomTune technology that uses an orchestral tone to automatically measure and optimize sound and noise cancellation for the user's ears each time they're inserted. The fit combines ear tips with stability bands for exceptional passive isolation before active cancellation even activates.
- →Download the Bose app for full setup and immersive audio demos
- →Ideal for frequent travelers needing maximum noise isolation
- →Excellent for phone calls with natural aware mode and auto-adjustment
- →Worth the premium price for best-in-category ANC performance
- →CustomTune eliminates manual sound calibration hassle
DHRME
After six months of use, the reviewer finds the Bose QuietComfort …
After six months of use, the reviewer finds the Bose QuietComfort Ultra disappointing despite high expectations. Comfort is the primary issue—while generally comfortable, they don't match the Sony WH-1000XM5's fit for this user. The controls represent a significant step backward from Bose's traditionally excellent button layout; reduced button count, poor tactile feedback, and confusing multi-function assignments frustrate daily use. Slow startup times compound the control problems. The reviewer explicitly misses their previous Sony headphones and regrets the switch, though acknowledges being in the minority on comfort opinions.
- →Try before buying—comfort varies significantly by user
- →Control scheme may frustrate previous Bose owners
- →Not ideal for those prioritizing quick operation
- →Consider if spacious ear cups suit your head shape
- →Wait for startup before attempting button commands
Community Discussions via Reddit
Comparison
r/Earbuds
u/ds15_
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are positioned as a bass-forward, comfort-focused option with exceptional noise cancellation. The reviewer, a non-audiophile music enthusiast, purchased these alongside competitors for direct comparison. The standout features are the class-leading ANC (rated 10/10) and superior fit (10/10), with the reviewer noting they "LOVE the fit." The immersive audio feature is considered a novelty rather than essential. However, sound quality is perceived as lacking detail and clarity compared to premium alternatives, with the reviewer stating it "completely lacks the detail" of competitors. Volume output is notably higher than alternatives. The Bose app received middling marks for being unremarkable. Community feedback adds concerns about call quality and Bluetooth stability issues during calls.
Key Insights
- →Best suited for users prioritizing noise cancellation and comfort over analytical sound quality
- →Ideal for bass-heavy music listeners who want impactful low-end without audiophile precision
- →Not recommended for users who need reliable call quality or frequent phone use
- →Immersive audio is a niche feature — most users will prefer default mode
- →Target user is the non-audiophile music enthusiast who values comfort and isolation over technical detail
Top Comments
Thanks for your review and comparison. It's nice having non-audiophiles compare as many of these top-end earbuds as possible.
Thank for the review. It helped me a lot to choose my new earbuds over momentum 3 that i am currently using. AZ-100 are on the way :)
Thank you! I agree, I was hoping to find more opinions from non-audiophiles while searching which earbud to purchase. Glad I could help!
Comparison
r/bose
u/Simply_pheyie
The author, Simply_pheyie, purchased the Bose QuietComfort Ultra after extensive research comparing it against Sony XM5 and AirPods Max, primarily prioritizing sound quality, comfort, and build quality. As someone with small ears who uses headphones for hours daily for calls and work, they found the QC Ultra comfortable for long sessions where competitors caused fatigue. After ownership, they report satisfaction with the immersive audio mode and customizable EQ, though note that quiet mode doesn't fully block all noise. Community members confirm these are solid daily-use headphones, with one user mentioning potential mechanical creaking issues requiring replacement.
Key Insights
- →Best for users with small ears who need comfortable headphones for extended daily wear and long work sessions
- →Not ideal for those seeking complete silence without audio playing; ANC performs adequately but not class-leading in quiet mode
- →Immersive audio mode preferred over standard quiet mode by at least one owner
- →Durability concern: potential hinge and internal mechanical issues exist, though severity appears variable (one confirmed replacement case)
- →Recommended for Samsung/Android users specifically seeking ecosystem-agnostic premium audio with comfort priority over absolute ANC performance
Top Comments
Enjoy! They’re great all around headphones for daily use. To prolong the life of the earpads, wipe them down occasionally with a microfiber cloth and let them air out for a couple of minutes before …
Thanks. I have a headphone hanger attached to my table, so I will not be putting them in the case as often.
Thank you 😊. I was worried about the hinge problem because I will cry if it ends up broken after a few months of use. Then, for the XM6, I feel it is still too new to make a decision, and I am …
Troubleshooting
r/bose
u/hopingtogetanupvote
Multiple owners of Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds report a persistent static interference and crackling issue specifically in the left earbud, particularly noticeable during noise cancelling with no audio playing. One user experienced this across four replacement units, suggesting a systemic design flaw rather than isolated defects. The static is described as intermittent crackling and occasional beeping, distinct from normal noise cancelling hiss. Despite this, some users praise the noise cancelling quality. Community consensus indicates high failure rates with multiple users going through numerous replacement pairs, raising serious durability concerns.
Key Insights
- →Best for users prioritizing noise cancelling quality who are willing to risk multiple replacements
- →Not ideal for users seeking reliable, long-term durability without hassle
- →Issue appears systemic to design rather than isolated defects based on statistical improbability of repeated failures
- →Users sensitive to intermittent audio artifacts should avoid or test thoroughly during return window
- →Consider extended warranty or purchase protection given reported failure rates
Top Comments
I have the bose quiet comfort ultra earbuds and I'm having the static in the left earpiece right now as I type this
I've been hearing this damn mosquito noise in the left bud for months and finally bothered to look it up tonight. Been buying bose for 15 years, and this blose
The right bud speaker in my QC gen 1's fried, so I reached out to Bose to see if there were repair options, which there weren't. However, for $200 I could get some new Ultras if I sent mine in to …
Quick Opinion
r/bose
u/FreshDiamond9990
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds receive generally positive feedback from owners, with particular praise for comfort, noise cancellation, and recent firmware improvements. Multiple users report these are the only earbuds they can wear for extended periods without discomfort. Noise cancellation performs well, especially in travel scenarios like airplanes. However, early adopters experienced significant connectivity issues and a background whine that a recent update largely resolved. The Bose app is widely criticized as frustrating, with some users opting for third-party alternatives like Wavelet or avoiding the app entirely while still accessing the three base modes (quiet, aware, immersion). Fit stability is another strength, with users noting they stay secure during activities like chewing where other earbuds failed.
Key Insights
- →Best for users prioritizing all-day comfort and secure fit over app-based customization
- →Recent firmware update essential — early units had notable quality issues now largely resolved
- →Travel/airplane use is a standout use case due to strong ANC performance
- →App-avoidant users can function with default modes but must install temporarily for updates
- →Worth considering for those who have failed with other earbuds due to fit or comfort problems
Top Comments
Finally happy with them. The update a couple of weeks ago essentially solved the background whine and connectivity issues I was having. I’ve had one refusal to connect incident since then that I was …
I'm happy with them. Noise cancellation is good, especially on airplanes. I hate the Bose app tho. I recommend installing the Wavelet app
I’ve had mine for about a week. Only earbuds I’ve ever been able to leave in my ears for any significant amount of time. Every other pair I’ve ever tried has been uncomfortable almost immediately. So …
Scores based on weighted analysis of 36 expert and community sources. How we review →