What’s it like to use the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen)?

The 2nd Gen is of identical shape and size to the original.

The Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) looks very similar to its predecessor. From its identical shape, size, and weight to the same loop attachment, it takes a closer look to see what’s new and improved from the original Bose SoundLink Flex. This new generation is still wrapped in a durable rubberized finish with a metal speaker grill and features an IP67 protection rating, making this speaker both dust and water-resistant; Bose also states it’s still drop-proof and rust-proof. Safe to say, the new SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) is still ready for your next outdoor adventure or poolside hangout.

SoundLink Flex 1st Gen is above, and 2nd Gen is below.

Aside from slightly larger feet on the back of the enclosure to help with stability when using the unit as an upward-firing speaker, the most noticeable design difference is an updated and redesigned control strip. In an attempt to make some controls easier to find and operate, the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) features a control panel further recessed into its enclosure, with a now isolated, easier-to-find power button. There is also a new dedicated Play/Pause button, and they’ve added a status light above the shortcut button as well.

Still, as with the original, the buttons feel slightly mushy and require a heavy finger to ensure your command has been registered. It’s not quite the instant, satisfying, tactical click you get when controlling the JBL Flip 7, for example. Lastly, the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) is available in a few new colors. Our test model spots the Alpine Sage finish, but it’s also available in Sandstone, Blue Dust, and, of course, classic Black.

Should you use the Bose app for the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen)?

It’s important to note that the new SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) uses a different app than the original. The original SoundLink Flex uses the Bose Connect app, while the 2nd Gen uses the Bose app.

The Bose app has a few useful features; otherwise, it’s pretty lean. Casual listeners could get away without installing it. It offers minimal EQ options with four rather uninspired presets (Bass reducer/booster and Treble reducer/booster). Luckily, you can tweak the sound via the supplied Bass, Middle, and Treble sliders. Still, while a three-band customizable EQ is certainly better than nothing, considering some other companies offer a ten-band EQ, it would be nice to personalize the sound of the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) speaker a little further.

The Bose app also lets you pair a second SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) speaker for stereo playback. Unfortunately, since the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) relies on a different app than the original, this means you cannot pair a 1st Gen SoundLink Flex with a 2nd Gen for stereo performance. Here, you can also customize your shortcut control (choose between Speaker Link, Voice Assistant, and Spotify Tap). I don’t find the shortcut control particularly useful, especially if you only have one speaker. When assigned to Voice Assistant, you still have to push the button to activate it, just as you would on your phone. Perhaps it may be helpful if you find yourself closer to the speaker than your phone, but not so much on day-to-day operation.

Lastly, the app can sync the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) with current Bose Smart Speakers or Smart Soundbars. Using the “SimpleSync” feature, you can extend the reach of your home audio system and share the audio between your two speakers, for example.

How does the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) connect?

You’ll find the USB-C charge port on the side of the speaker.

The Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) offers multipoint connection and connects to your devices via Bluetooth 5.3, a welcome update from the original SoundLink Flex, which connects via Bluetooth 4.2. While it supports the standard SBC and AAC codecs, Android users with the right phone can access higher-quality sound. The SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) now features Snapdragon Sound and will automatically stream music to a Snapdragon Sound-certified phone using the aptX codec.

How long does the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen)’s battery last?

The SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) size compared to an iPhone 14 Pro.

There’s no real battery life boost with the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen). Bose still promises 12 hours of playtime on a single charge, just like it did with the original SoundLink Flex.

In our standard battery test, where we loop music at 80dB from a meter away, the Flex (2nd Gen) lasted 7 hours and 3 minutes. Not amazing, not terrible, just enough to get you through a full day at the beach or hanging out at the park

How does the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) sound?

Comparing the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) side by side with the original SoundLink Flex, without any hardware upgrades to the 2nd Gen, I’m not surprised to discover that it sounds identical to the original. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, both speakers can benefit from some minor EQ tweaks.

The SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) makes a great beach speaker for when it’s you and a few friends.

In its stock form, the SoundLink Flex (2nd) provides a relatively safe amount of lows, mids, and highs. It isn’t the most exciting-sounding Bluetooth speaker out of the box. Listening to “Subdivisions” by Rush, the odd-time signature synth bass intro is slightly quieter than I’m used to, and I know there is more detail to be heard in Neil Peart’s intricate cymbal work. Fortunately, it’s a quick fix. Diving into the three-band EQ to increase the Bass to +6 and the Treble to +3 makes all the difference. Switching genres, “Tech Noir” by Gunship also benefits from these adjustments. A more satisfying, pulsing low-end from the kick drum, combined with better clarity in the layers of vocals and swirling synths. Overall, a more energizing and detailed listening experience.

While I’m usually the first to complain about a lack of EQ options, let’s remember the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) isn’t designed for critical listening. It’s meant to enhance the vibes of your next gathering, whether you’re camping in the woods or simply chilling on the front deck. A quick tweak of the EQ easily provides enough low-end power to keep a small outdoor gathering going, but you won’t be rattling any windows with it. Cranking it up past 80% volume on my phone, the DSP kicks in to reduce its bass frequencies to keep the whole unit from distorting.

Should you buy the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen)?

The SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) is an excellent outdoor-ready Bluetooth speaker.

The Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) is a quality outdoor Bluetooth speaker that’s durable, portable and offers decent sound at a reasonable price, just like the original. If you already own an original SoundLink Flex, there’s no need to rush out and buy the 2nd Gen. Without any significant hardware upgrades, or better battery life for that matter, if you’re a casual listener, you could snag an original SoundLink on sale and most likely be happy with it.

Fortunately, it appears Bose recognizes these updates as minor. The SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) is the same price as the original, $149.

What should you get instead of the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen)?

For the same price, consider the JBL Flip 7 (). This durable, portable speaker is also ready to take on the great outdoors with the same IP67 protection rating and shares quite a few of the same features as the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen). Check out out video above to learn more about the Flip 7.

The Soundcore Motion 300 features a detachable strap for placement options.

Alternatively, you can check out the Anker Soundcore Motion 300 () for almost half the price. It offers a very similar design to the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen), right down to the loop attachment and EQ change when you switch up the speaker’s orientation. While heavier than the Bose unit, it offers stereo playback and LDAC support if you’re keen on Hi-Res audio for your adventures. Lastly, it’s outdoor-ready with an IPX7 protection rating and a drop-proof, durable build.

Frequently asked questions

We’ve tested over 100 Bluetooth speakers in the real world, from camping trips to patios to kitchens, and these are our favorites. The quick takes below outline what each top pick does best, and link to its full review. While we don’t use lab gear for frequency sweeps, we do plenty of listening in noisy and quiet spaces alike. That lets us evaluate sound quality, volume limits, and practical usability. We also consider build quality, durability, and useful extras like voice assistants or stereo pairing. The goal is simple: help you find a speaker that actually delivers when it counts.

The Quick Answer

Check out our top picks below for a quick guide to the best Bluetooth speakers that suit your needs and budget. Each has a link to our full review.

The best overall:

The best smart speaker:

The best Apple speaker:

The best sound quality:

The best speaker for bass:

The best party speaker:

The best clip-on speaker:

The best pocket-friendly pick:

The best Bose Bluetooth speaker:

The In-depth Answer

Below you’ll find our in-depth coverage of the best Bluetooth speakers. Each speaker has been rigorously tested, ensuring you can trust our recommendations.

Best Bluetooth speaker overall: JBL Charge 6

The JBL Charge 6 takes what worked with the Charge 5 and makes it better in all the right ways. It’s still built like a tank, but now has beefed-up rubber bumpers around the passive radiators and an IP68 rating—so it’s totally dustproof and waterproof. That makes it even more ready for whatever outdoor adventure you throw at it. In my experience, the Charge 6 delivers stronger bass than the Charge 5, and its upgraded 7-band customizable EQ in the JBL Portable app is a significant improvement, allowing you to really fine-tune the sound of this speaker.

It keeps the same general shape as the Charge 5, meaning it’s still backpack-friendly, but now there’s a detachable handle and a more stable base, which I find helps it stay put when out and about. Battery life jumps to 24 hours (up from 20), and you can still charge your phone via the USB-C port. JBL also added some nice extras like lossless audio over USB and Auracast support, though keep in mind that in our testing, we discovered it won’t connect with older JBL speakers that use Party Boost.

Read our full JBL Charge 6 review

Best smart Bluetooth speaker: Google Nest Audio

The Google Nest Audio stands out as a smart speaker that combines aesthetics, functionality, and affordability. Its pillow-inspired design allows it to blend seamlessly into your home’s decor while delivering decent audio performance and smart features.

We’re impressed with Nest Audio’s sound quality, thanks to its 75mm mid-woofer and 19mm tweeter. Although it lacks deep bass, it reproduces midrange and treble frequencies quite well, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres or listening to your favorite podcast while making dinner. The speaker’s Media EQ and Ambient IQ features can also dynamically adjust the sound based on the content and your environment.

In our testing, Google Assistant really shines on the Nest Audio. It responds quickly, and I found it super handy for controlling smart home devices, making calls, and setting reminders. The built-in machine learning chip is a nice touch, too. It gradually speeds things up as it learns your routines.

Read our full Google Nest Audio review

Best Bluetooth speaker from Apple: Beats Pill

The Beats Pill makes a strong comeback in the portable speaker market with its latest iteration. Along with seamless iOS integration, this compact pill-shaped speaker packs a punch with its bass-heavy sound profile, making it ideal for bass lovers who want a portable audio solution. Its IP67 rating ensures it can withstand dust, water splashes, and even brief submersion, making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures.

While the Beats Pill offers a hearty bass response, it does have some limitations. In our testing, we found that the sound quality noticeably declines at higher volumes, with compression and distortion becoming apparent above 50% volume. This makes it less suitable for larger parties or outdoor events where you might need to crank up the volume. Still, its angled design tilts the drivers upward, which I found makes a noticeable difference when listening at a desk. Along with outdoor use, it’s also a solid choice for your home office or casual listening around the house.

Read our full Beats Pill review

Best Bluetooth speaker for sound quality: Anker Soundcore Motion X600

The Anker Soundcore Motion X600 stands out as a high-end portable speaker that doesn’t compromise on sound quality. We quickly discovered that its five-driver system, which includes an upward-firing driver, creates an immersive listening experience that’s uncommon in speakers of this size. The spatial audio mode also adds noticeable depth to your music, making it a great choice for audio enthusiasts who want a portable solution.

While it may not be the most rugged or portable option, I find the Motion X600 best suited for home environments. Its aluminum build and unique grille design make it a stylish addition to any living room, and its built-in handle makes it easy to tote to the basement or backyard. The speaker offers a good balance of features, including LDAC codec support for high-quality streaming and a 9-band customizable EQ through the Soundcore app.

Read our full Soundcore X600 review

Best Bluetooth speaker with bass: Brane X Smart Speaker

There’s no way around it—the Brane X is a beast of a portable Bluetooth speaker designed for those who want their music loud and their bass even louder. Seriously, this heavy-duty speaker packs a serious punch with its built-in 6.5″ x 9″ downward-firing subwoofer and offers stereo playback with two 2.5-inch mid-range drivers and two .75″ dome tweeters.

After testing hundreds of speakers, keeping its size in mind, I can confidently say Brane X easily provides the most low-end in a reasonably compact design. While it may be too bulky and heavy for casual outings, naturally, the Brane X shines in smaller to medium-sized party settings. Its IP57 water resistance also makes it suitable for poolside or beach use.

The companion app offers decent customization options, including a 5-band EQ for fine-tuning the sound to your liking. If you’re keen on using the Brane X around the house, it also offers Wi-Fi connection with voice assistant support for “Hey Alexa.” We’re also happy to let you know that the Brane X still offers a 3.5mm aux input for a wired connection.

Read our full Brane x review

The best clip-on Bluetooth speaker: JBL Clip 5

The JBL Clip 5 continues the legacy of its predecessors as the go-to speaker for outdoor enthusiasts and casual listeners on the move. This latest iteration brings some welcome upgrades while maintaining the compact, convenient, and rugged clip-on design that made the series popular.

The Clip 5 boasts a more premium look and feel compared to the Clip 4. It has a wider carabiner for more placement options and thicker silicone padding on the back for added protection. Additionally, we discovered it offers 7W of output compared to the 5W provided by the Clip 4,  which provides a bit more “oomph” for personal or small group listening in outdoor settings.

New features like companion app support from the JBL Portable app allow users to fine-tune their listening experience with preset and custom EQ options. Like the Charge 6, the Clip 5 now uses Auracast to pair with other compatible JBL speakers like the Xtreme 4 and Flip 7. However, our testing discovered that Auracast pairing limits you to mono sound and JBL’s default EQ settings.

Read our full JBL Clip 5 review

Best Bluetooth party speaker: JBL PartyBox Stage 320

The JBL PartyBox Stage 320 is the ultimate mobile party machine, designed to turn any gathering into an unforgettable event. This powerhouse speaker combines booming sound, a customizable light show, and improved mobility to bring the party vibes wherever you may be.

The Stage 320 quickly impressed us (and our neighbors) with its 240 watts of stereo power, delivered through dual 6.5″ woofers and 25mm dome tweeters. Not only will this speaker pump out the party jams, but we didn’t notice much distortion in our testing either, even at higher volumes. The redesigned light show adds a visual spectacle to match the audio performance, with customizable options available through the JBL PartyBox app.

Improvements in portability, including a telescoping handle and wider wheels, make it easier to transport this 16.5kg party machine compared to previous models. Its IPX4 water resistance rating means you don’t have to worry about light rain or splashes by the pool. While the ParyBox Stage 320 offers up to 18 hours of battery life, we were also happy to discover that it offers swappable battery packs, ensuring that your party will go all night long, off-grid or not.

Read our full JBL PartyBox Stage 320 review 

Best pocket-friendly Bluetooth speaker: Soundcore Select 4 Go

The Soundcore Select 4 Go is a solid pick for a budget-friendly Bluetooth speaker for personal use or small hangouts. It has an IP67 rating, so it’s good to go at the beach, in the shower, or wherever your day takes you. My favorite feature, though, has to be the 9-band EQ in the Soundcore app, which gives you more control over the sound than most speakers in this price range.

Battery life is impressive too, with up to 20 hours of playtime. That’s plenty for a few days of casual listening. There’s also a built-in loop for a carabiner and rubber feet on the bottom, so you can set it up to fire sound upward. It’s a nice bonus if you’re working with limited space.

Just keep in mind that while the sound and features are great for the price, the build is not quite as tough as something like the JBL Clip 5. The Select 4 Go feels decently sturdy, but it is not the most rugged option out there.

Read our full Soundcore Select 4 Go review

Best Bose Bluetooth speaker: Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen)

The SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) maintains the durability that made the original popular, with its IP67 rating ensuring protection against dust and water. While we discovered there weren’t any hardware upgrades from the 1st Gen, the updated Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and support for the aptX codec (on compatible devices) provide a more stable connection and potentially higher audio quality for Android users.

Sound quality remains a strong point. Honestly, the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) sounds great right out of the box. While the EQ options in the companion app are somewhat limited—you’re only supplied with Bass, Middle, and Treble sliders—they do allow for some sound customization to suit your preferences. It’s better than nothing!

Read our full Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) review

The best Bluetooth speakers: Notable mentions

• Anker Soundcore Boom 2 (): With plenty of bass on tap, customizable dual LED lights, and a floatable design, the Boom 2 brings a little something extra to your next outdoor gathering.
• Anker Soundcore Boom 2 Plus (): The Boom 2’s bigger sibling and our runner up for “Best Bluetooth speaker with bass”. If the Brane X is out of your price range, consider this less expensive alternative. It provides stereo playback with a hefty bass response, and of course, its built-in light show.
• Bose SoundLink Micro (): This is the perfect companion for bikers and picnic hosts; you can strap it onto your handlebars and or set it on the blanket and dig in.
• JBL Flip 7 (): While upgraded durability, new connection options, and extra carrying attachments aren’t exactly game-changers, the added sound customization is definitely a welcome upgrade to this popular water-bottle-shaped speaker.
• JBL Flip 6 (): The JBL Flip 6 is still a solid speaker, with an IP67 rating and JBL’s signature sound. It’s also just as easy as ever to sync this Bluetooth speaker with your devices. Snag two on sale and run them in stereo!
• JBL Xtreme 4 (): The larger sibling to the Charge 6, the Xtreme 4 offers stereo performance, a shoulder strap, and swappable battery packs.
• EarFun UBOOM X (): The UBOOM X is an affordable boombox-style speaker that sounds great and brings the vibes. With a variety of EQ options and a customizable light show, it delivers without breaking the bank.
• UE HYPERBOOM (): If you like UE but feel its previous offerings weren’t loud enough to power your parties, then the HYPERBOOM is perfect for you. Sure, it’s expensive, but it fills a niche that UE couldn’t previously fill.
• UE Wonderboom 4 (): The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 is a great portable Bluetooth speaker for impromptu park hangs and on the go. It’s small, sturdy, well-built, and light enough to easily be thrown in a backpack. Unlike its predecessor, the Wonderboom 3, which relied on a micro-USB port, the Wonderboom 4 also now charges via USB-C.
• Sonos Roam 2 (): The Sonos Roam 2 doesn’t stray far from the original in terms of design, specs, and features. Frustrating app setup issues aside, it’s a great-sounding portable speaker. Existing Sonos users will benefit from their home smart setup reaching a little further. Still, with its new Bluetooth connection option, anyone can use it as a standalone Bluetooth speaker for your next adventure without relying on the finicky Sonos app.
• Sony ULT Field 7 (): If you are seeking the full party experience in a package that’s light enough to carry with one hand, the Sony ULT Field 7 is worth considering.

What you should know before you buy the best Bluetooth speaker for your needs

These days, Bluetooth speakers are a dime a dozen. After testing hundreds of speakers here at SoundGuys, here are a few things you should know before buying. What makes one speaker stand out from the next?

What is a Bluetooth codec?

Represented is the max transfer rate (kbps) of each respective Bluetooth codec (greater is better). Each waveform depicts a transfer rate of 100 kbps.

Just like wireless headphones, Bluetooth speakers support specific Bluetooth codecs. For those unfamiliar with the concept, a codec determines how a file is transmitted from a source (phone) to a receiver (speaker). If you want a lag-free experience, make sure to invest in something that supports aptX or AAC if you’re an iOS user. Not only does this reduce latency, but it also allows for better streaming quality (at least if you use AAC with iOS).

That said, casual listeners don’t worry too much about codec support. Bluetooth speakers are built to fuel the party, not for critical listening. For most people, including myself, the SBC codec sounds just fine. While speakers like the Charge 6 and Beats Pill advertise features like lossless audio, chances are you won’t notice a difference.

What is an IP rating?

The Boom 2 is outdoor-ready with its IPX7 protection rating.

Sometimes, a product’s specifications will plainly read “sweat-resistant” or something similar. However, if you know you’re going to take your speaker on a boat or to the beach, you should invest in something with an official IP rating. IP ratings denote a particular product’s dust and water resistance.

Often, a product is rated something like IPX4, and the X is just a placeholder for a dust-resistant rating. For a product to withstand full submersion, it must be at least IPX7 or higher. For example, the JBL Charge 6 is IP68 rated, meaning it’s fully dustproof and can handle submersion in water, up to 1.5m, for 30 minutes.

How we choose the best Bluetooth speakers

We test them all so you don’t have to.

There are thousands of Bluetooth speakers out there, and while we can’t test every single one, that doesn’t stop us from trying to get our grubby hands on as many as possible. If a speaker made it onto this list, you can be sure we’ve spent time with it and, in most cases, put it through our whole review process.

That includes cranking up the volume to check for distortion, listening across various genres from EDM to heavy metal, running standardized battery tests in the infamous “Booth of Doom” at SoundGuys HQ, checking out all the features its companion app has to offer, and, of course, testing them in real-world conditions. Whether it’s a Charge 6 strapped to a paddleboard for a day on the lake or a Clip 5 hooked to a backpack for a city bike ride, if a speaker can’t hold up and deliver, you’ll hear about it.

We want you to be happy with your purchase, so we’ve narrowed down what it means to be the best Bluetooth speaker. In short, it needs to sound good, be reasonably priced, and handle wear and tear. If it’s designed for outdoor use, we make sure it has an official IP rating, and we’ll be sure to drop it in a tank of water while we’re at it.

After all our in-house (and outdoor) testing, one thing holds true: if a speaker performs well, there’s no reason to spend more than necessary.

Why you should trust SoundGuys

The Soundcore Boom 2 holds its own against the Charge 6.

Every writer follows a strict ethics policy and works to make the research process easier for you. We know spending a ton of money chasing the absolute best gear is possible, but most people aren’t looking to break the bank. Our goal is simple: help you find something you’ll love. We don’t profit from pushing you toward or away from any specific product.

Frequently asked questions about Bluetooth speakers

Bose has not officially announced the QuietComfort Headphones 2 yet. Nevertheless, here are all the features and upgrades I want Bose to bring to the QuietComfort Headphones 2 while we wait for more details.

Improved sound quality

It is no secret that Bose has struggled to deliver pleasing sound quality with its past releases. For example, the Bose QuietComfort 45 boost upper-midrange and treble frequencies around 2.5kHz and 10.5kHz by roughly 14dB and 12dB, respectively. While this may improve the intelligibility of podcasts, it quickly becomes grating when listening to tracks with a lot of high-frequency content.

The Bose QC Headphones suffer the opposite problem, accentuating sub-bass frequencies below 60dB by as much as 14dB. This causes the mids to sound comparatively “weak”, making it difficult to hear fundamentals like vocals and guitars. The headphones also have a huge swing in the highs at 6-8kHz that can trick your brain into expecting one thing, only to be presented with an absence or overemphasis on something else. The latest QuietComfort Ultra solve this issue with Bose’s CustomTune feature, tailoring the sound profile to your ear’s anatomy. The Bose QC Headphones 2 should also use this feature to improve sound quality, or at the very least, reduce the bass.

A comprehensive custom EQ

The Bose Music App is necessary to adjust EQ and get firmware updates.

Custom EQs are vital for tuning headphone sound profiles when you don’t like their default frequency response. However, some manufacturers are better at implementing comprehensive and intuitive equalizers than others. For example, the Sony Sound Connect and JBL Headphones apps provide a 10-band custom EQ. Many companies offer EQ presets for those who want a quick and easy solution.

Unlike Sony and JBL, Bose’s in-app EQ is disappointingly barebones. Sure, listeners can select from just six EQ presets, including Bass Boost, Treble Boost, Bass Reducer, and Treble Reducer. However, the Bass Boost preset accentuates the headphones’ already skull-rattling sub-bass by over 18dB. Similarly, those wanting personal customization are limited to a three-band graphic EQ for adjusting Bass, Mid, and Treble. This pales compared to the competition and cannot “fix” the headphone’s poor sound quality. Bose needs a comprehensive custom EQ when the QuietComfort Headphones 2 launch.

Updated hardware

Unfortunately, that USB-C port doesn’t allow USB-C audio.

CES 2025 unveiled a string of impressive new audio technologies. For example, JLab is entering the adaptive ANC sphere with its new Epic Lux Lab Edition headphones. These sport 32mm drivers that promise premium sound and combine future-proof spatial audio with head tracking. Likewise, OneOdio announced its new Studio Max 1 DJ headphones. These promise 20ms latency Rapid WiLL+ tech and 120 hours of battery life.

Despite the Bose QuietComfort Headphones launching in 2023, their hardware has quickly become outdated. For example, the headphones do not support USB-C audio and do not include an airplane adapter. Similarly, the left ear cup’s trigger shortcut can only be used to access Spotify or tell you the battery level. While battery life lasts an industry average of 27 hours, it is shorter than rivals like the Sony WH-1000XM6. For context, these headphones lasted 37 hours and 14 minutes in our testing. The Bose QuietComfort Headphones 2 will need updated hardware features to compete with their rivals.

Bluetooth 5.4 and high-res codecs

The headphones do a good job of reducing wind noise during calls.

Recent advances in Bluetooth technology have brought extremely cool features. For example, devices running Bluetooth 5.2 can support LE Audio and the LC3 codec. Likewise, listeners can use Auracast to connect to supported public and private broadcasts directly from their headphones. Bluetooth 5.4 takes this a step further, improving battery efficiency, increasing signal stability, and enabling low-latency audio connections. The last is particularly handy for gamers and movie enthusiasts.

The Bose QC Headphones run Bluetooth 5.1 and connect via the SBC and AAC codecs. Subsequently, fans miss out on future-proof features, like the ones listed above. Similarly, while the SBC codec has improved over recent years, it delivers lower-quality connections compared to its closest alternatives. For example, the aptX Bluetooth codec yields 352kbps, 48kHz/16-bit LPCM audio streaming, while SBC provides 320kbps, 48kHz/16-bit audio data. While this may look similar on the surface, SBC is prone to significant data loss. The Bose QuietComfort Headphones 2 should connect wirelessly over Bluetooth 5.4 and include high-res codecs.

A cheaper price tag

Same as it ever was, the Bose QuietComfort Headphones fit in the same bag-friendly case.

You no longer have to spend vast amounts to receive headphones with flagship features. For example, the JLab JBuds Lux ANC cost (), providing a consumer-friendly frequency response, decent noise canceling, and over 44 hours of battery life. They also support Bluetooth 5.3 and feature USB-C audio for Hi-Res wired audio. The JLab app unlocks many notable features, including a 10-band custom EQ, a volume limiter, and adjustable ANC modes.

Bose enjoys no such accolade. Priced at $349, its QuietComfort Headphones fall within the same price range as the industry-leading Sony WH-1000XM5 and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless. However, unlike these two headphones, Bose’s QC Headphones have a comparatively limited feature set. Indeed, fans can receive better features and save $270 by purchasing the JLab JBuds Lux ANC. The Bose QuietComfort Headphones 2 will need a cheaper price tag to compete with more affordable, feature-rich headphones.

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Will there be a Bose QuietComfort Headphones 2?

Bose has been a major player in the consumer headphones arena for nearly three decades and just announced the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen). These promise wireless charging support and enhanced AI noise canceling and in-call noise rejection algorithms. The ear tips also embed wax guards to keep your ears and the tips clean. Bose addressed their predecessor’s overly sensitive controls by allowing listeners to disable the capacitive touch panels entirely through the Bose app. The earbuds will be released outside the U.S. from June 26, while U.S. buyers will have to wait until later this summer.

Unfortunately, Bose has not officially announced the Bose QuietComfort Headphones 2. Rumors are also sparse, so we may have to wait longer for concrete details.

• Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 — May 29, 2019
• Bose QuietComfort 45 — September 23, 2021
• Bose QuietComfort Headphones — September 21, 2023

However, we can surmise an approximate launch date based on the company’s previous release schedule. For example, the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 launched on May 29, 2019. The subsequent QuietComfort 45 materialized two years and four months later. The current QuietComfort Headphones were launched almost two years later on September 21, 2023. By that metric, we could see the Bose QuietComfort Headphones 2 hit shelves in the winter of this year.

Should you wait for the Bose QuietComfort Headphones 2?

The Bose QuietComfort Headphones are not bad, but given their limited feature set and overemphasized bass response, we recommend their cheaper siblings instead. For example, the now-discontinued Bose QuietComfort 45 and Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 have similar functionality and can still be found for much less money on Amazon. However, those wanting future-proof features and best-in-class noise canceling may wish to hold out for the Bose QuietComfort Headphones 2.

Bass heads (and those partial to the color green) will enjoy the Bose QuietComfort Headphones (). The cans own a frequency response that boosts sub-bass frequencies below 60Hz by as much as 14dB. Build quality feels robust, and their lightweight 240g frame is extremely comfortable. For example, the ear cups are large, distribute their weight well, and have sufficiently soft padding. The controls are intuitive for adjusting playback and volume and include an action button. The last can toggle through different listening modes, mute calls, or trigger shortcuts. Listeners receive a travel case, a 3.5mm to 2.5mm TRS cable, and a USB-A to USB-C cable. ANC is excellent and attenuates ambient sound by up to 45dB. However, battery life is mediocre, lasting 27 hours. Likewise, the headphones’ sound quality will not be everyone’s taste.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless ()  provide superior battery life and excellent sound quality. These headphones have a default frequency response that follows our target preference curve. In particular, well-represented highs and comparatively tempered bass make speech more intelligible. Sennheiser also outpaces the competition by delivering over 56 hours of ANC-enabled playback time. The company’s Auto On/Off feature is handy and automatically turns the headphones on or off based on their position. Under the hood, the headphones use Bluetooth version 5.2 and connect via a list of codecs, including SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive. Those who prefer wired audio can use the 3.5mm jack or a USB cable to listen to music from a computer. Unlike the Bose QuietComfort Headphones, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless package an airplane adapter.

If you like the look and feel of Bose QuietComfort headphones, why not purchase the newer Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones ()? Sure, they are more expensive than the QC Headphones, but they are stuffed with advanced features. For example, the cans support Snapdragon Sound with the aptX Lossless codec and connect with a 2.5 to 3.5mm TRS cable. The headphones enjoy top-of-the-range noise canceling and large, dense ear pads. Together, they reduce the loudness of ambient noise by up to 87%. Battery life lasts an average of 27 hours, and a 15-minute top-up provides two and a half hours of listening time. Controlling the headphones is easy thanks to their multifunction button, power button, and touch-sensitive strip. Downloading the Bose Music app yields regular firmware updates, a basic EQ, and immersive audio. Unfortunately, USB-C audio is not supported.

Finally, the newest Sony WH-1000XM6 () are one of the best headphones on the market. For example, the headphones quell low-frequency rumbles below 300Hz by over 30dB. The cans also improve the sound quality of their predecessor. Battery life lasts over 37 hours with ANC enabled, and listeners can fast charge three hours of listening time by topping up for three minutes. Fans can connect via a TRS cable or Bluetooth 5.3 over the SBC, AAC, or LDAC codecs. The capacitive touch panel on the right ear cup controls volume, track skipping, play/pause, voice assistant, and ambient sound passthrough. Downloading the Sony Sound Connect app unlocks a 10-band EQ, 360 Reality Audio, and many other high-end features.

Bose QuietComfort Headphones 2 FAQs

• Bose launches SoundLink Plus ($269) with 20-hour battery, IP67 rating, and phone charging capability
• The SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) ($129) gets USB-C, a 12-hour battery, and a removable strap
• Both speakers support Bluetooth 5.4, aptX Adaptive, and can pair with other SoundLink speakers

Bose is expanding its popular SoundLink Bluetooth speaker lineup with two new models. The company announced the SoundLink Plus portable speaker and a second-generation SoundLink Micro, both featuring enhanced audio performance and rugged designs built for outdoor use.

SoundLink Plus fills the gap between the Flex and Max

The SoundLink Plus comes in an exclusive citrus yellow colorway to complement your spiked summer lemonade.

The new SoundLink Plus addresses a clear gap in Bose’s portable speaker lineup, slotting between the $149 SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) and the premium $399 SoundLink Max. Priced at $269, the speaker features a new acoustic architecture combining one subwoofer, one tweeter, and four passive radiators to deliver what Bose calls “best-in-class sound and booming bass.” For listeners who found the SoundLink Max’s $399 price tag steep but wanted more power than the compact Flex offers, the Plus appears positioned as the sweet spot option.

Despite its powerful drivers, the SoundLink Plus maintains a portable form factor and weighs less than four pounds. The speaker offers an impressive 20 hours of playback time and doubles as a power bank, with its USB-C port capable of charging phones and other devices at 15W.

Built for outdoor durability, the SoundLink Plus has an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance and can withstand submersion up to three feet for 30 minutes. The speaker actually floats in water and includes a rugged nylon rope for easy retrieval and attachment. Its shock—and rust-resistant construction features a powder-coated steel grille with soft-touch silicone housing.

Second-gen SoundLink Micro gets major upgrades

The updated SoundLink Micro maintains its ultra-compact dimensions while packing significant improvements. Weighing just under one pound, the new model delivers enhanced audio performance through a single driver and dual passive radiators, which should provide improvements at higher frequencies without sacrificing bass response.

Key upgrades include USB-C charging (replacing the previous micro-USB), extended 12-hour battery life, and a new removable fabric nylon strap for easier attachment to bags, bikes, shower heads, or other gear. The second-generation model also gains Bose app compatibility for the first time, enabling EQ adjustments and firmware updates.

Like its predecessor, the new Micro maintains IP67 water and dust resistance with the same rugged silicone exterior and powder-coated steel grille construction.

Connectivity and pairing features

Aside from the side-mounted handle strap, the SoundLink Plus looks a lot like the Max.

Both new speakers support Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint connectivity for pairing to two devices simultaneously, with a 30-foot range. They include Google Fast Pair for quick Android device pairing and support multiple audio codecs, including SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive for high-definition audio with compatible Android devices.

Another useful feature is the speakers’ ability to pair with other current SoundLink models. Users can create stereo setups with two identical speakers or use Party Mode to sync audio across different SoundLink models, including the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) and Max.

The Bose app provides a custom three-band equalizer, shortcut button customization (including Spotify Tap), voice prompt language changes, and SimpleSync technology for connecting to compatible Bose soundbars and smart speakers.

What’s new

AI-Powered Enhancements: The biggest upgrades center around the latest trend in tech: artificial intelligence. Bose has implemented an updated AI algorithm that promises to make noise cancelation adjustments smoother when filtering sudden environmental sounds like passing trains or sirens. This should help prevent your audio content from being drowned out during automatic adjustments, creating what Bose calls “a more refined noise cancelation experience.”

For phone calls, the earbuds also now feature an AI-powered noise suppression system that promises to improve call quality when combined with the earbuds’ eight microphones, dynamic mixing, and adaptive filters. Leveraging audio augmentation technology originally developed for hearing aids, the system is said to better isolate the speaker’s voice while reducing background distractions like wind and office chatter.

Wireless Charging: The charging case now supports Qi wireless charging out of the box, eliminating the need for cables when using compatible wireless chargers. Simply lay the back of the case on any compatible wireless charger and you’re good to go.

Design Improvements: The ear tips now feature embedded wax guards designed to keep your ears and the ear tips of your earbuds clean so you can hear your music without any blockage. Additionally, users can now disable the capacitive touch controls entirely through the Bose app, addressing complaints about accidental activations when adjusting earbuds or brushing your hair behind your ears.

What’s the same

Pricing and Positioning: Bose has maintained the $299 USD price point (CAD $379 in Canada), keeping these earbuds in the premium tier despite market pressure from more affordable alternatives.

Case Size and Design: The charging case remains relatively chunky at 2.35″ x 2.60″ x 1.06″ in the same clamshell shape. While functional, it’s noticeably bulkier than competitors.

Battery Life and Performance: Battery life remains consistent at up to six hours per charge (four hours with Immersive Audio enabled), with the case providing three additional charges. A 20-minute quick charge still delivers up to two hours of playback time. The earbuds maintain their IPX4 water—and sweat-resistant rating.

Sound Profile and App: No significant changes appear to have been made to the sound tuning or frequency response, which previously emphasized bass frequencies more than some listeners preferred. Of course, we will test them in our lab to be sure. We expect these earbuds to utilize the new Bose QC Earbuds app, which has a five-band custom EQ and some notable features over the original Bose app, which only had a three-band custom EQ.

Connectivity: The earbuds continue to support Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connectivity, SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive codecs, plus Google Fast Pair for Android users.

The Verdict

The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) represent a solid iterative update that addresses two key user complaints—call quality and charging convenience—while maintaining the original’s core strengths. However, those hoping for more competitive pricing, dramatically improved sound tuning, or a more compact case may need to look elsewhere.

Availability: The earbuds will be available outside the U.S., including Canada, starting June 26 in Black, White Smoke, and a limited Deep Plum colorway. U.S. buyers will have to wait until later this summer, though they can subscribe via a “Notify Me!” button on the product page to be updated on pre-orders and start of sales information.

Are you looking for an amazing pair of headphones? Quality audio can be pricey! We know it can get terrifying to look at their prices, but today we have a couple of deals that will soften the blow. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Sony WH-1000XM5 are among the most respected cans in the industry, and you can get either of them for under $300 right now.

Buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra in Lunar Blue for $299 ($130 off)

Buy the Sony WH-1000XM5 for $298 ($101.99 off)

The Bose offer comes from Woot!, an Amazon-owned deals website. It only applies to the Luner Blue color version. On the other hand, the Sony discount is available from Amazon, and it applies to all color versions available.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

First, let’s talk about the main limitation here. Only the Lunar Blue color model of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra is $299. This means you’ll have to like that color before even considering this pair of cans. That said, I happen to really like this color! If you do too, keep reading.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra are amazing headphones that only compete with the best out there. They offer excellent audio quality, the design is gorgeous, and the build is solid. Battery life isn’t astounding, but it is really good at about 27 hours per charge, according to our internal tests.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones have a matte exterior.

These also come with a plethora of great features, such as Bluetooth Multipoint, Snapdragon Sound, aptX Lossless, gesture controls, spatial audio, and more.

What really makes these headphones stand out, though, is the ANC performance. In fact, these are still our top option on our list of the best noise canceling headphones. It’s quite impressive, really. These can block external noise by 87%, with the ability to quiet noises like bus engines, airplane whines, and train screeches. Even the passthrough mode is quite outstanding!

If you want he best ANC the audio market has to offer, these headphones have no match yet.

Sony WH-1000XM5

The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are no longer the latest and greatest. These have been succeeded by the Sony WH-1000XM6. That said, the previous-generation headphones are still amazing, and they led our list of the best headphones for years. And something great about them being “older” is that they are very nicely discounted!

The sound quality on these is fantastic, and the ANC performance is still outstanding. These are the two main considerations when picking headphones, and the XM5s do great in both departments. Even the microphone sounds great, making them a great option for video calls and calls. It helps that they are very comfortable, because you can wear them for long listening sessions.

The design is clean and minimalist, and they honestly look very similar to the newer model. And while older, these are high-end headphones with plenty of fun features. You still get touch controls, Bluetooth Multipoint, Find My Device support, and more.

These also excel in the battery life department. Based on our internal tests, they will last about 32 hours with ANC enabled. Get this, though: if you disable ANC, the battery life is extended to a whopping 53 hours!

Regardless of which option you choose, you’ll walk away with fabulous headphones. Just make sure to act quickly—we’re not sure how long these deals will last!

What’s it like to use the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro compared to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

Both the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are top-tier earbuds from some of the most popular audio companies out there. Both products offer the latest features and best performance of each companies’ product lines. Picking one over the other isn’t so much an exercise in figuring out which product is the “best,” but which one suits your needs more.

Though it’s a little on the chunky side, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds’ charging case should still be able to fit into your pocket without much fuss.

While the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro look a lot like the Apple AirPods Pro with a similar style of ear tips and lollipop-style design, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds use a shorter protrusion to serve as its control interface, and a small fin to hold the earbud in your ear. Though there are design advantages to each style, the former earbuds are a little more comfortable than the latter, and the latter are much easier to fit than the former.

Exercise enthusiasts will probably be better suited by the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro, as those earbuds boast an IP57 ingress protection rating. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds only offer an IPX4 rating — more than enough for workouts — but it does mean that there’s an increased likelihood that a splash or dunk would be a bit too much to handle. For activities that would put you in the presence of a lot of water, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are more likely to survive.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro definitely look the part of flagship earbuds.

Both charging cases are small enough to fit in just about any pocket, and both charging cases are more than adequate for the job. However, only the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro’s case can be topped up wirelessly, while the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds only support traditional charging. Though it’s not a huge deal unless you have a wireless charging pad, it is undeniably convenient.

Should you use the apps of either Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

In order to make the most of the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, you’re going to need to use the apps of each to get the most out of them. While you can technically scrape by without tinkering, in the case of the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro we think you’ll want to install the Samsung Wearable app in order to unlock the equalizer, EQ presets, and AI features. Said AI features are pretty useful, even if it’s a bit limited currently. For example, the real-time translation tool is a creative tool that allows you to communicate with someone who doesn’t speak your language, and the results are pretty decent.

The Samsung Wearable app unlocks more than just an EQ.

Bose’s Music App is required for timely updates, and that means it’s definitely a good idea to install every now and again. The app itself isn’t super useful outside of that, as the EQ presets and the three-band equalizer aren’t all that incredible. However, you will need it if you’d like to use Bose’s version of spatial audio: Immersive sound. I wasn’t a fan because it simply made the audio sound like you were listening to a single speaker in front of you, and then used the head tracking to place that in 3D space. But if you are hoping for that sort of thing, Bose’s implementation nails that illusion.

How do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds connect?

The pairing button lives next to the USB-C port.

Though the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are able to make use of SBC, AAC, and Samsung Seamless Codecs, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds use a much more cross-platform friendly aptX Adaptive (including aptX Lossless). If you have a Samsung phone, this likely will not matter to you, but if you have a current Android phone from any other manufacturer, you’re probably going to want to pick up the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds if your device uses a Qualcomm chip that supports Snapdragon Sound.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds’ pairing button is located at the back of the charging case.

However, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are the only model between the two that supports Auracast — if you’re angling to use that feature in the future. Though it’s not a big fixture of Bluetooth headphones just yet, it does enable some useful features like allowing venues to pipe their audio feeds directly to your earbuds, or provide a translated audio stream that only you can hear.

Is battery life better on the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

According to our standardized tests, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro last 4 hours and 31 minutes, while the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds can go for 6 hours and 11 minutes. This mainly matters on long trips, or if you plan to listen to music for many hours in one go. If you’re looking for a commuter buddy, you’re going to be placing these back in the charging case anyways after an hour or so — so the battery life isn’t a huge deal. Still, if you’re flying often, or taking extended bus trips: you might want to pick up the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds.

I will point out too, that more charging cycles can place additional strain on tiny batteries. So if you’re hoping to maximize the operational life of your earbuds, you might want to pick the ones with the better single-charge duration. But given that this is on the span of a couple years, it’s not an immediate concern.

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds block noise better?

Though there isn’t a clear winner in some of the other comparisons, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are a stellar performer when it comes to ANC, while the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are merely “pretty good.” There’s no bad option here, but there is a clear winner. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have excellent isolation and ANC.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro offer fair ANC performance, though it’s not going to make you forget the other top-tier options out there. There’s an argument to be made that this is a positive for those of you who go running or biking and need to be able to hear louder sounds, but if you’re around a bunch of engine noise: you might hear it.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, on the other hand, have some of the best ANC we’ve seen come through our labs, and should offer you a pretty noise-free listening experience. It’s not perfect, but it’s the choice you want to make for a flight or higher-noise environment.

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro sound better than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

Though the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are among the top of their class, there is a clear winner when it comes to sound quality. Both are good, but the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro offers a more crowd-pleasing sound than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. To illustrate this point, we took each through our labs and collected the following data to share with you.

As we can gather from the chart above, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro’s sound is characterized by strong bass, a slight dip at 400Hz, and some highs emphasis. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, on the other hand, have slightly stronger sub-bass, and much more high-mids emphasis. Though neither set of earbuds is exactly what we look for, both exhibit pretty typical features for consumer earphones.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro is a clear winner over Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds.

That said, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have distortion that you may or may not be able to hear. Because of this, along with a somewhat lower Immersiveness score, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds fall behind the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro in terms of perceived sound quality.

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have a better microphone?

Both the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have excellent microphones, but the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds is better at rejecting noise. You can hear for yourself in the selected clips below.

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro microphone demo (Windy conditions):

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Windy conditions):

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Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds: Price and availability

Because both Bose and Samsung are among the most popular manufacturers of earbuds on the planet, it shouldn’t surprise anyone that you can find both the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds on the websites of just about any big-box retailer out there. However, a recent move by Samsung to re-check much of its stock after manufacturing issues became apparent means that the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro won’t be available until the end of August at the soonest.

Though the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro comes in at $249.99, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds ($299.99) have been on the market for quite a while, so you might be able to find them on sale at the usual times of year. The prices being this close means that at any given time one might not be more expensive than the other, and it’s important to identify these products as competitors in price in addition to market status.

Should you get the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

Until the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro returns to the marketplace, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are your best bet. However, there’s reason enough to wait for the Samsung earbuds, especially when it comes to sound quality and features. Sure, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are nothing to sniff at, and those earbuds may be a great fit for a lot of people, but they do have their shortcomings.

Though they look a bit like a Cybertruck and AirPods had a baby, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are 2024 tech chic.

However, frequent international travelers shouldn’t think twice: the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are the better fit with far superior ANC and battery life. These are the main advantages the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have over the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro.

What about the new Bose QuietComfort Earbuds?

The new Bose QuietComfort Earbuds come in a flashy purple color option.

In 2024, Bose unveiled the new QuietComfort Earbuds (). These serve as the more affordable sibling to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. The case is a bit larger, but the earbuds themselves are smaller than their Ultra counterpart. You can also get the standard QuietComfort Earbuds in more flashy color options.

When it comes to features and performance, the new Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are surprisingly similar to the more expensive QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. As long as you don’t care about the latest and greatest Bluetooth connectivity or features like immersive audio, you can go with the cheaper option.

Frequently asked questions

What I like about the Bose SoundLink Home

The SoundLink Home goes for a sophisticated look rather than a rugged one.

As intended, the SoundLink Home looks right at home indoors. There are no chunky rubber bumpers, dangling lanyards, or unsightly carrying handles. Instead, a sleek metal casing gives the speaker a subtle, elevated presence. It’s the kind of design that might catch a houseguest’s eye and spark a conversation, and not in a bad way. Who doesn’t love talking about their audio gear?

Up top, again, the SoundLink Home keeps things minimal with a clean set of tactile controls. I much prefer these to the recessed buttons found on other Bose speakers like the SoundLink Flex. They offer a satisfying click that confirms each press. Still, you’ll rely heavily on the multi-function button for most tasks, including play/pause, track skipping, taking phone calls, or using your phone’s voice assistant, thanks to the SoundLink Home’s built-in mic.

When it comes to connection, the SoundLink Home uses Bluetooth 5.3 but supports both the SBC and AAC codecs. You can also listen wired via USB-C, although as a dedicated home speaker, I’m sure many listeners would also prefer a 3.5mm jack.

You’ll find some basic controls on the top of the speaker’s enclosure.

Overall, when it comes to sound quality, the Bose SoundLink Home handles sophisticated classic rock tracks like Steely Dan’s “Hey, Nineteen” quite well. It offers a full sound with a satisfying low-end kick drum punch and decent treble clarity. I can still hear the stick attack on the drummer’s ride cymbal, not to mention the whisper-like layered backing vocals.

However, switching gears and cuing up some electronic music like Todd Terje’s “Delorean Dynamite” makes that same bass strength a little overwhelming, masking some of the details from the swirling synths accompanying this upbeat track. This is normally where I would dive into the EQ to make some adjustments, but it turns out there aren’t any. So, let’s get into this issue and the rest of SoundLink Home’s shortcomings.

What I don’t like about the Bose SoundLink Home

Audio over USB is a nice touch, but how about some EQ options?

As sleek as the Bose SoundLink Home looks on a shelf, it lacks the features you’d expect from a speaker that costs over $200. First off, there’s no companion app support, which is a surprising omission from Bose. That means no EQ controls, so what you hear is what you get—there’s no way to fine-tune the sound to your liking without using a third-party app. On top of that, no app means no firmware updates, which could be a problem down the line if any bugs or performance issues crop up.

Then there’s the lack of multi-speaker pairing options. You can only link it with another SoundLink Home for stereo playback, and that’s it. It can’t connect to any of Bose’s other Bluetooth speakers or soundbars for a broader setup. That’s a real letdown, especially considering Bose’s many Bluetooth products in its lineup. I love stereo listening when I can get it, but the ecosystem limitations here feel unnecessary. For the price, this speaker should be more flexible.

And then there’s battery life. A maximum of 9 hours of playback is less than what most speakers of a similar size offer. I would expect to see something a little close to 12. Lastly, the SoundLink Home does not offer an IP rating. Sure, it’s designed to be used around the house, but even a minimal IPX4 rating for protection against water splashes would be nice.

Should you buy the Bose SoundLink Home?

If it’s value you’re after, you won’t find it with the SoundLink Home.

While the Bose SoundLink Home is indeed a good-sounding and good-looking Bluetooth speaker, its limitations, lack of features, and price are hard to ignore, especially if you already own or plan to invest in other Bose speakers down the line. There’s not much value here. You’re essentially paying for the housing. If you’re fine with that, you’ll enjoy the sound.

Otherwise, if you want to stick with Bose, consider the more durable, flexible, and less expensive SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) (). It’s IP67-rated, making it outdoor-ready, offers better battery life (up to 12 hours), and can pair with other Bose speakers like the SoundLink Max ().

The JBL Charge 6 () and Flip 7 () may also be of interest to you. Otherwise, you can check out our list of the Best Bluetooth speakers under $200 for even more feature-packed alternatives.

Bose SoundLink Home review: FAQs

Sony’s WH-1000XM-series headphones have dominated the noise canceling conversation for years, and the WH-1000XM6 enters the ring with a slew of refinements. Meanwhile, Bose isn’t letting its crown slip quietly, with the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones standing in the red corner as a powerful contender, boasting aptX Lossless, Snapdragon Sound, and personalized tuning designed to lead the charge into the next wave of wireless audio.

Both headphones bring premium sound quality, impressive ANC, and future-ready wireless features — all for over $400. We’ve tested both extensively and compared everything from comfort and connectivity to battery life, microphones, and sound. So, which pair is actually worth your hard-earned money? Let’s break it down.

What’s it like to use the Sony WH-1000XM6 compared to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones?

Both headphones have a similar folding design.

In terms of day-to-day wear, Bose wins the comfort round hands down. Their name isn’t just branding — the QuietComfort Ultras really are ultra-comfortable. They have ample, plush padding and a spacious earcup design that’s easy to wear for hours, even on long flights. I’ve slept in them on the plane without issue. Sony, by comparison, uses thinner, more rigid padding and shallower earcups. The ANC mic even protrudes from the mesh coverings inside the earcups, which can rub against your ear — and yes, that gets uncomfortable fast.

That said, Sony clearly took notes from Bose’s playbook with the XM6 design. Gone is the old lay-flat format — the XM6 now folds just like the QuietComfort Ultra and fits nearly identically in its carrying case. Control-wise, both headphones use swipe gestures, though in different spots: Sony uses the right earcup’s outer panel, while Bose tucks a touch-sensitive strip underneath the earcup edge. Both take a bit of practice, but are easy enough once you get used to them. There’s no IP rating for either headphones, so you’ll want to keep them dry.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones have more features?

If you’re all about tweaking and customizing your experience, Sony’s Connect app blows Bose’s Music app out of the water. You get a 10-band EQ, spatial audio tuning, head gesture controls, DSEE Extreme, a volume limiter, and much more. It’s a playground for audio nerds and power users.

Bose takes a simpler route. You get a basic 3-band EQ, immersive audio modes, and some shortcut customization — but not a lot more. For most users, that may be fine, but if you want more granular control, Sony gives you far more room to fine-tune your audio experience.

How do the Sony WH-1000XM6 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones connect?

Both headphones use Bluetooth 5.3 and support Auracast, which is becoming increasingly relevant for public LE Audio broadcasts. You’ll also get LE Audio and all the standard codecs — SBC and AAC — but the real split comes down to high-resolution wireless.

Sony supports LDAC, which works best with many Android phones for detailed, higher-bitrate playback. Bose, on the other hand, supports aptX Lossless and Snapdragon Sound, which may be preferable depending on your phone. Unfortunately, neither headphone supports wired USB-C audio, but both offer a 3.5mm analog connection (2.5mm on the Bose side).

Is battery life better on the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones?

Thanks to the thicker padding, the Bose QC Ultra’s are much more comfortable for longer listening sessions.

Battery life is a clear win for Sony. The XM6 clocked in at 37 hours and 14 minutes in our testing — nearly 10 hours more than Bose’s 27 hours and 37 minutes. That extra headroom makes a big difference on longer trips or if you don’t want to charge your headphones often.

Fast charging also tilts in Sony’s favor. Just 3 minutes gets you 3 hours of playback, whereas Bose needs 15 minutes for 2.5 hours. Both use USB-C for charging, but Sony’s quicker top-up is definitely more convenient.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones block noise better?

Sony and Bose both rank among the best in the ANC game, but the XM6 takes a slight lead. In our measurements, the Sony headphones reduced average loudness by 87%, while the Bose QuietComfort Ultra achieved 85%. Realistically, that’s not a dramatic difference — both will muffle train screeches, airplane hum, and noisy cafes without breaking a sweat.

Fit plays a huge role here. Sony’s thinner pads and shallow cups may compromise the seal for some users, particularly if you wear glasses. Bose’s larger, better-padded design generally creates a more consistent seal, which means you’re more likely to get great ANC performance out of the box.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 sound better than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones?

From a listening perspective, this one’s close. If you’re a bass lover, Bose has a bit more sub-bass rumble that makes music feel more physical. Sony plays it a bit safer with a more neutral default tuning, and thanks to its 10-band EQ, you can shape the sound pretty much however you want.

Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS)

Our virtual panel of listeners, as represented by MDAQS, gave both headphones high scores across the board, with Sony taking a slight edge in distortion handling (3.6 vs. 3.2). Bose scores nearly identically in Timbre and Immersiveness, though. Hence, it’s a bit of a wash depending on your preferences.

Objective Measurements

Looking at the frequency response graph, Bose pushes more energy into the sub-bass, while Sony tracks more closely to the SoundGuys’ preference curve in the mids and treble. That means Sony may sound cleaner and more balanced, while Bose leans into warmth and impact. Again, neither tuning is “wrong” — it depends on your taste.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones have a better microphone?

Both headphones perform well in calls and virtual meetings, but Sony’s mic system gets a small edge thanks to its AI-powered beamforming. It handles noisy backgrounds with a little more finesse. That said, we recommend you listen to our microphone demos on the site — your ears might disagree, and mic quality can be surprisingly subjective.

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Bose QC Ultra Headphones microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Windy conditions):

Bose QC Ultra Headphones microphone demo (Windy conditions):

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones: Price and availability

The Sony WH-1000XM6 retails at $449.99, while the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones list for $429. That $20 difference may not mean much on its own, but the Bose headphones go on sale more often, making them the better value if you can snag them at a discount.

Should you get the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones?

The Sony XM6 will be a better option for most, unless you have a newer Android phone.

If you want a feature-rich set of ANC headphones that nail the fundamentals and offer deep customization, the Sony WH-1000XM6 is hard to beat. Between its excellent sound quality, robust app controls, industry-leading noise canceling, and marathon battery life, it’s one of the most complete headphone packages available today. Auracast support and LDAC give it a future-forward edge, even if the lack of USB-C audio and thinner padding might be a sticking point for some.

Sony is the best all-rounder right now, but Bose might sound better depending on your phone — and your ears

That said, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones make a strong case for themselves — especially if comfort and effortless listening matter most. With aptX Lossless and Snapdragon Sound, they deliver high-fidelity wireless playback that’s especially appealing for Android users. Their fit is more forgiving, their bass response more full-bodied out of the box, and they’re easier to enjoy without tweaking. Add in Auracast and LE Audio support, and they’re just as ready for what’s next in wireless.

Editor’s Note: We’re reporting live from the launch event in New York City. This story went live under embargo and will be updated with firsthand impressions from the event floor.

Skullcandy is back with what they are calling their most advanced wireless earbuds to date, a claim that is largely backed by a brand-new partnership. On the surface, the Method 360 ANC earbuds feature a striking design and style that screams Skullcandy, but under the hood, they leverage licensed ear tips and fins and audio tuning by none other than Bose.

This isn’t the first time we’ve seen the Sound by Bose branding on another company’s earbuds. For instance, the Motorola Moto Buds+ released last year also features ANC and audio tuned by Bose engineers. However, while the Method 360 ANC will eventually have the same MSRP of $129.99 as the Moto Buds+, you can snag them now for a special introductory price of only $99.

The earbuds are stored inside each side of the new slider case.

The Method 360 ANC also has a couple of other unique features, such as an all-new slider case with a built-in O-ring clip and three sets of fit fins and gels that use licensed technology from Bose for a secure, comfortable fit. You also get up to 40 hours of battery life with ANC off, and when ANC is on, it leverages a 4-mic hybrid system with an adjustable Stay-Aware mode.

Additional highlights include a low-latency mode for gaming and video streaming,  Bluetooth multipoint, Google Fast Pair, Spotify Tap integration, voice sidetone for clearer calls, and Skull-iQ app compatibility for EQ customization and button remapping. Rapid charging delivers two hours of playback in just 10 minutes, and the IPX4 rating offers protection from sweat and water.

The Method 360 ANC is available now in five colorways—Black, Bone, Primer, Plasma, and Leopard—via Skullcandy.com. We’re on-site at the launch event at Hall des Lumières and will be updating this article soon with our hands-on impressions and what we learn about the long-term vision behind Skullcandy’s collaboration with Bose.