Bose’s current US lineup offers two distinct premium choices: over-ear QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) and in-ear QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen). Choose between them first by fit and use: headphones offer longer stated playback and wired audio support, while the earbuds are compact, have a water-resistance rating, and come with a wireless charging case. Bose’s specifications describe features and battery claims; they do not establish which model sounds or cancels noise better in independent testing.
Which Bose headphones or earbuds should you buy?
For long listening sessions, over-ear comfort, or the option to connect by cable, consider the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen). Bose states up to 30 hours of playback, or up to 23 hours with Immersive Audio enabled. For a pocketable option with an IPX4 rating and a charging case, consider the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen); Bose states up to six hours per charge with Immersive Audio off, or up to four hours with it on.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
These are different form factors rather than direct substitutes. Comfort, fit, and how well the earbuds seal are personal, so specifications alone cannot identify the better choice for every listener. Bose’s US catalogs list the current headphone and earbud ranges; availability and catalog details can change (Bose headphones catalog; Bose earbuds catalog).
Recommended Free Tools
How the two second-generation Ultra models differ
| Feature | QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) | QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Around-ear headphones | In-ear earbuds; three eartip sizes and three stability-band sizes are included |
| Battery claim | Up to 30 hours, or 23 hours with Immersive Audio, according to Bose’s current product specification | Up to six hours per charge, or four with Immersive Audio; Bose says the case provides up to three full charges |
| Charging and audio connection | USB-C charging and USB-C audio; Bose also includes an analog audio cable | Wireless charging case |
| Noise and listening features | Quiet, Aware, Immersion, and Cinema modes; ActiveSense, Immersive Audio, and CustomTune | Adjustable noise cancellation, ActiveSense, Immersive Audio, CustomTune, and SpeechClarity |
| Calls and device connections | Multipoint support: not stated in the cited Bose specifications | Bose lists multipoint and AI-based background-noise suppression for calls |
| Water resistance | Not stated in the cited Bose specifications | IPX4 rating |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.3 |
Feature and connection details are from Bose’s product pages and specifications for the headphones and earbuds. Battery figures are manufacturer claims, not independently measured results. The earbuds’ case charges are additional to the stated per-charge playback time; they are not part of the six-hour or four-hour earbud runtime.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
What to know about the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
The headphones are an around-ear model with removable cushions and both wireless and wired listening options. Bose lists Quiet, Aware, Immersion, and Cinema modes, plus Immersive Audio and CustomTune. ActiveSense adjusts noise cancellation in Aware Mode in response to environmental sound levels, according to Bose’s product description (Bose product page).
Bose says USB-C audio supports 16-bit, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz signals from compatible source files. This is a compatibility specification, not a guarantee that every device, file, or app will output those formats. The product includes a USB-C cable and an analog audio cable, according to Bose’s product page and support specifications.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What changed in the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)?
Bose’s comparison with the first-generation Ultra Earbuds identifies several changes: AI-based background-noise suppression for calls, wireless charging, improved ActiveSense, case battery-level reporting in the app, and an option to disable touch controls. These are Bose-described updates, not independent assessments of how much each feature improves everyday use (Bose generation comparison).
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallThe earbuds also list adjustable noise cancellation, Immersive Audio, SpeechClarity, multipoint connections, Bluetooth 5.3, and an IPX4 rating. Bose includes three eartip sizes and three stability-band sizes, which gives users options for securing the earbuds and achieving a seal. If the fit feels loose or bass and noise reduction seem inconsistent, try the included tip and band combinations before assuming the product is defective. Bose’s specifications do not establish that a particular size suits every ear (Bose earbud support specifications).
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How to choose by use
For travel and long listening sessions
The headphones’ up-to-30-hour manufacturer battery claim exceeds the earbuds’ up-to-six-hour per-charge claim. That makes the headphones the more straightforward choice if you want longer playback between charges. The earbuds’ case provides up to three full charges, according to Bose, but case-supported listening involves recharging the buds between sessions. Actual runtime depends on use and settings; Immersive Audio reduces the stated maximums for both models.
For exercise or exposure to light splashes
The earbuds have an IPX4 rating, while the cited specifications do not state a water-resistance rating for the over-ear headphones. IPX4 is not a claim that the earbuds are waterproof or suitable for submersion. For activities where a secure fit matters, test the included stability bands and tips before relying on the earbuds during movement.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
For calls and switching between devices
Bose lists multipoint for the earbuds and describes AI-based background-noise suppression for calls as a second-generation update. The listed headphone specifications do not state multipoint, so do not assume the models have identical device-switching capabilities. The cited specifications do not provide an independent call-quality comparison.
For wired listening
The headphones support USB-C audio and include an analog audio cable, according to Bose. If you need a wired path, check that the intended connection works with your source device and the cable type you plan to use. The earbud specifications cited here list a wireless charging case; they do not establish a wired audio mode for the earbuds.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Is the second-generation model worth choosing over the first?
For the earbuds, Bose identifies wireless charging, call-noise suppression, improved ActiveSense, app reporting of case battery level, and touch-control disabling as second-generation differences. Whether those changes justify choosing the newer generation depends on which features matter to you and the current prices for each version. Bose announced the second-generation earbuds on June 12, 2025, at an initial US price of $299; that is historical launch pricing, not a current quote (Bose launch announcement).
The source material establishes current-generation headphone features and specifications but does not provide an equivalent head-to-head evaluation against an earlier headphone generation. Check the exact generation on a retailer listing before purchasing, and compare current prices at the time you buy.
What the available evidence can—and cannot—tell you
Bose’s catalog, product pages, and support specifications establish listed features, compatibility details, and manufacturer battery estimates. They do not establish independent rankings for sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, microphone performance, or value. Battery figures should be read as Bose’s “up to” claims, not guaranteed runtimes for every listener.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
One figure sometimes associated with the earlier QuietComfort Ultra Headphones should not be mistaken for the second-generation model’s runtime: Bose says it tested production-representative first-generation headphones in April 2025 and measured up to 24 hours with Immersive Audio off and 18 hours with it on under its specified conditions. Those results apply to that earlier model only, not the second-generation headphones discussed here.
Quick Recap
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.
