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Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →No Bose earbud should be treated as waterproof. Some models have a water-resistance rating, but the rating and Bose’s usage guidance vary by model—and the charging case may have a different rating or none at all. Bose says its cited IPX4 earbuds are not meant to be submerged, so do not swim or shower in them.
What Bose’s water-resistance ratings mean
An IP rating applies to a particular product, not every Bose earbud. For the models covered here, Bose lists IPX4 or IP54 ratings. Bose describes IPX4 earbuds as sweat and weather resistant, but says they are not meant to be submerged. The rating is not permission to swim, shower, or expose the earbuds to water beyond the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Bose says water resistance may decrease through normal wear. Keep the charging contacts dry and clean; Bose recommends wiping them with a dry, soft cotton swab to help prevent corrosion. Follow the guide for your exact model and generation.
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Bose earbuds: ratings and water-use guidance
| Model | Bose-listed rating | Case rating or guidance | What Bose’s guidance means |
|---|---|---|---|
| QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) | Earbuds: IPX4 | Case: not water resistant | Do not submerge, swim, or shower with the earbuds. Bose specifications and user guide. |
| QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds | Earbuds: IPX4 testing | Bose says not to expose the outside of the case to water | Bose describes the earbuds as protected against sweat and splashing water from any angle. Bose product page. |
| Ultra Open Earbuds (original) | Earbuds: IPX4 | Case: IPX1; do not splash or submerge it | Do not swim, shower, or submerge the earbuds or case. Bose says the case is intended for light exposure such as light vertical rainfall. Bose user guide. |
| Sport Open Earbuds (2026) | IP54 | Case rating not stated on the cited comparison page | Bose describes the rating as sweat, splash, and dust resistance; it is not an immersion rating. Bose announcement and comparison page. |
| Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen, 2026) | IPX4 | Case rating not stated on the cited comparison page | Use the matching product guide for specific care instructions; do not assume the case shares the earbuds’ rating. Bose comparison page. |
Bose announced the Sport Open Earbuds and Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) on September 17, 2026, with availability stated for October 1, 2026. Bose’s comparison page lists their ratings. Those 2026 models are distinct from the original Ultra Open Earbuds.
#1 Best Overall
- WORLD-CLASS NOISE CANCELLATION: The best noise cancellation of any Bose wireless earbuds is now even better than before. ActiveSense technology smooths spikes in surrounding sound, so even in Aware Mode distractions won’t get in the way.
- CUSTOMTUNE TECHNOLOGY: CustomTune technology analyses your ears and adapts your in-ear headphones to their shape. The result? World-class noise cancellation and custom sound for bigger chills every time you press play.
- NOISE CONTROL: Quickly adjust the level of noise cancellation without using Modes, including turning it off completely to conserve battery.
- IMMERSIVE AUDIO: Bose Immersive Audio spatialises what you’re hearing by taking it out of your head and placing it beyond your Bluetooth earbuds. It’s like listening from the acoustic sweet spot, where songs sound like the artist intended.
- SECURE FIT AND STABILITY: Choose from nine combos of eartips and stability bands to find the snuggest fit for comfortable earbuds. The soft, umbrella-shaped tips seal the opening of your ear to reduce outside noises while stability bands hug them.
Can you wear Bose earbuds in the rain?
Check the exact model’s rating and instructions. Bose describes some rated earbuds as weather resistant or resistant to splashing, but that does not establish safety in heavy rain or prolonged water exposure. The original Ultra Open case’s IPX1 guidance is limited to light exposure such as light vertical rainfall; do not generalize that case guidance to other models.
Can you shower or swim with Bose earbuds?
No. Bose explicitly says the cited IPX4 earbuds are not meant to be submerged and cautions against swimming or showering with them. Do not wear them in a pool, under a shower, or for washing. A water-resistance rating does not override those instructions.
Rank #2
- WORLD-CLASS NOISE CANCELLATION: The best noise cancellation of any Bose wireless earbuds is now even better than before. ActiveSense technology smooths spikes in surrounding sound, so even in Aware Mode distractions won’t get in the way.
- CUSTOMTUNE TECHNOLOGY: CustomTune technology analyses your ears and adapts your in-ear headphones to their shape. The result? World-class noise cancellation and custom sound for bigger chills every time you press play.
- NOISE CONTROL: Quickly adjust the level of noise cancellation without using Modes, including turning it off completely to conserve battery.
- IMMERSIVE AUDIO: Bose Immersive Audio spatialises what you’re hearing by taking it out of your head and placing it beyond your Bluetooth earbuds. It’s like listening from the acoustic sweet spot, where songs sound like the artist intended.
- SECURE FIT AND STABILITY: Choose from nine combos of eartips and stability bands to find the snuggest fit for comfortable earbuds. The soft, umbrella-shaped tips seal the opening of your ear to reduce outside noises while stability bands hug them.
Is the Bose charging case waterproof?
Do not assume it is. Bose lists the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) case as not water resistant. The original Ultra Open case is rated IPX1, with Bose warning against splashing or submerging it. For models whose cited comparison listing does not state a case rating, check that model’s own guide rather than borrowing the earbuds’ rating.
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Quick Recap
Rank #4
- WORLD-CLASS NOISE CANCELLATION: The best noise cancellation of any Bose wireless earbuds is now even better than before. ActiveSense technology smooths spikes in surrounding sound, so even in Aware Mode distractions won’t get in the way.
- CUSTOMTUNE TECHNOLOGY: CustomTune technology analyses your ears and adapts your in-ear headphones to their shape. The result? World-class noise cancellation and custom sound for bigger chills every time you press play.
- NOISE CONTROL: Quickly adjust the level of noise cancellation without using Modes, including turning it off completely to conserve battery.
- IMMERSIVE AUDIO: Bose Immersive Audio spatialises what you’re hearing by taking it out of your head and placing it beyond your Bluetooth earbuds. It’s like listening from the acoustic sweet spot, where songs sound like the artist intended.
- SECURE FIT AND STABILITY: Choose from nine combos of eartips and stability bands to find the snuggest fit for comfortable earbuds. The soft, umbrella-shaped tips seal the opening of your ear to reduce outside noises while stability bands hug them.
Rank #3
- A high quality audio experience, consistently balanced at any volume, thanks to Bose active EQ. Connectivity technology: Wireless
- Wireless convenience, with easy Bluetooth and NFC pairing aided by voice prompts
- Exclusive stay hear and tips keep the headphones comfortably in place during workouts
- Sweat and weather resistance for reliability while exercising
- Up to 6 hours battery life per charge. Please refer the user guide before use
What to do if the earbuds or case get wet
- Stop using them and keep them out of water; do not charge wet earbuds or a wet case.
- Dry the exterior and keep moisture away from the charging contacts. Bose advises cleaning contacts with a dry, soft cotton swab to help prevent corrosion.
- Check the product guide for your exact model before using or charging the device again.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
