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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsChoose the Sony WH-1000XM5 for the more balanced all-rounder; choose the original Bose QuietComfort Ultra if stronger noise cancellation and a richer sound matter most. That recommendation reflects the tested comparison from What Hi-Fi? and RTINGS, not a universal winner: comfort, fit, call quality, device compatibility and the price of the exact model available to you can change the decision.
First, check which Bose QuietComfort Ultra you’re comparing
What Hi-Fi?’s head-to-head comparison is between the Sony WH-1000XM5 and the original Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. The page says it was updated in October 2024. Bose announced the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) on September 10, 2025, so specifications for the newer model should not be applied to the original pair.
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The 2nd Gen adds USB-C lossless wired audio and Cinema Mode. Bose says that model plays for up to 30 hours, or up to 23 hours with Immersive Audio enabled and 45 hours with ANC off. These are manufacturer figures for the newer generation, not verified runtime claims for the original QuietComfort Ultra. Bose’s 2nd Gen announcement describes the changes and battery conditions.
How the Sony and original Bose compare
| What matters | Sony WH-1000XM5 | Original Bose QuietComfort Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Noise cancellation | Strong performance; RTINGS says both are suited to noisy environments. | Edge in What Hi-Fi?’s tested comparison; RTINGS calls its noise-isolation advantage slight. |
| Sound | What Hi-Fi? describes it as more natural and transparent. | What Hi-Fi? describes it as richer, with more body. |
| Comfort and build | What Hi-Fi? found both headphones comfortable; RTINGS rates Bose more comfortable and better built. | What Hi-Fi? found both comfortable; RTINGS rates Bose more comfortable and better built. |
| Battery claim | Sony’s current U.S. specifications say up to 30 hours of playback with noise canceling on, or 40 hours with it off. | Do not use the 2nd Gen’s battery figures as a specification for the original pair; the cited comparison does not establish an equivalent original-model figure. |
| Calls | What Hi-Fi? favors Sony for call quality. | The cited comparison favors Sony for calls. |
| Bluetooth and wired use | Sony lists Bluetooth 5.2 and SBC, AAC and LDAC codecs. RTINGS says the headphones can operate passively when wired. | RTINGS says the original supports aptX Adaptive and must be powered on for wired use. |
| Price context | What Hi-Fi?’s October 2024 update described Sony as cheaper in its markets. | That price comparison is dated; check the price and generation of the listing in your market. |
Reviewer sound descriptions are assessments, not objective measures of which headphone sounds best to every listener. Codec support matters only if your playback device and audio source support the codec. Sony’s figures are manufacturer playback-time claims, and actual runtime varies with volume and use. Sony’s U.S. specifications list its battery and Bluetooth details.
#1 Best Overall
- PREMIUM NOISE CANCELLATION: Two processors control 8 microphones for unprecedented noise cancellation. With Auto NC Optimizer, noise canceling is automatically optimized based on your wearing conditions and environment.
- MAGNIFICENT SOUND: Engineered to perfection with the new Integrated Processor V1.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS-FREE CALLING: 4 beamforming microphones, precise voice pickup, and advanced audio signal processing.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (3 min charge for 3 hours of playback).
- ULTRA-COMFORTABLE: Lightweight design with soft fit leather.
Choose Sony for calls, a balanced sound and the all-rounder case
The WH-1000XM5 is the more straightforward pick if you want a headphone that performs well across several everyday priorities rather than maximizing one feature. What Hi-Fi?’s comparison gives Sony the advantage for calls and describes its sound as natural and transparent. In that publication’s October 2024 update, Sony was also the cheaper option in the markets it covered; that is a dated comparison, not a guarantee about today’s local prices.
Sony’s published battery estimate is up to 30 hours of music playback with noise canceling on and up to 40 hours with it off. Those numbers come from Sony, not an independent real-world battery test. Check the current listing for the exact model and price before buying.
Rank #2
- PREMIUM NOISE CANCELLATION: Two processors control 8 microphones for unprecedented noise cancellation. With Auto NC Optimizer, noise canceling is automatically optimized based on your wearing conditions and environment.
- MAGNIFICENT SOUND: Engineered to perfection with the new Integrated Processor V1.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS-FREE CALLING: 4 beamforming microphones, precise voice pickup, and advanced audio signal processing.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (3 min charge for 3 hours of playback).
- ULTRA-COMFORTABLE: Lightweight design with soft fit leather.
Choose the original Bose for its noise-canceling edge and fuller sound
If your first priorities are blocking noise and a richer presentation, the original QuietComfort Ultra has the stronger case. What Hi-Fi?’s tested comparison gives Bose the ANC edge and describes its sound as having more body. RTINGS characterizes the noise-isolation difference as slight, while saying both models are suitable for noisy environments. The practical gap may therefore matter less than personal fit and preference.
RTINGS rates the Bose more comfortable and better built, while What Hi-Fi? found both comfortable. Those findings do not predict how either pair will fit your head; try them on if you can, especially if you plan to wear them for long stretches.
Rank #3
- PREMIUM NOISE CANCELLATION: Two processors control 8 microphones for unprecedented noise cancellation. With Auto NC Optimizer, noise canceling is automatically optimized based on your wearing conditions and environment.
- MAGNIFICENT SOUND: Engineered to perfection with the new Integrated Processor V1
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS-FREE CALLING: 4 beamforming microphones, precise voice pickup, and advanced audio signal processing.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (3 min charge for 3 hours of playback).(USB Type-C Cable included)
- ULTRA-COMFORTABLE: Lightweight design with soft fit leather.
Check the exact model and price before buying
Prices and stock vary by region, seller and date. What Hi-Fi?’s price assessment was updated in October 2024, and Bose’s current U.S. catalog features the 2nd Gen; neither should be treated as a live, like-for-like quote for the original headphones in every market. Bose’s catalog page also displays a sale price that can change. Bose’s U.S. catalog listing identifies the 2nd Gen.
TechRadar reported 2nd Gen launch prices of $449 in the U.S., £449 in the U.K. and AU$699 in Australia in 2025. These are historical launch prices, not current offers. TechRadar’s 2nd Gen review reports those figures.
Rank #4
- This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished, shows limited or no wear, and includes all original accessories plus a 90-day limited hardware warranty.
- Precision-engineered to deliver exceptional High-Resolution Audio quality. Our Precise Voice Pickup Technology with newly developed wind noise reduction will also ensure you can hear and be heard clearly when taking calls on these noise cancelling headphones.
- Smart, intuitive, and intelligent. Adaptive Sound Control automatically adjusts the sound settings based on your environment and activity, and Speak-to-Chat automatically pauses the music when you want to have a conversation, without you having to remove the over ear headphones!
- For total convenience, these Bluetooth headphones can be paired with two devices at the same time. Fast Pair will help you locate the WH-1000XM5B if you can't find them and Swift Pair makes pairing with your PC or tablet simple.
- With up to a huge 30 hours of battery life, you’ll have enough power, even for long trips! A collapsible case is included with these Sony headphones for easy storage and travel.
- Confirm whether a Bose listing is for the original QuietComfort Ultra or the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen).
- Compare prices in your own market, including the seller and date, rather than relying on an older review’s price ranking.
- For the original Bose, do not assume the 2nd Gen’s USB-C lossless audio, Cinema Mode or battery figures apply.
Verdict: pick the strengths you will notice most
For a broad, everyday recommendation, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is the safer choice in the cited comparison, particularly if call quality and a natural, transparent sound appeal to you. The original Bose QuietComfort Ultra is the better fit if you value its tested noise-canceling edge, fuller sound and RTINGS’ comfort assessment. If you are choosing between Bose listings, verify the generation first; then let fit, sound preference and the price available to you settle the decision.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- Revolutionary noise cancellation: The Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones set a new standard with industry-leading noise canceling, powered by 2 advanced processors and 8 microphones, offering an immersive sound experience. Ideal for audiophiles and professionals, these sony headphones deliver unparalleled quietness in any environment, enhancing focus whether you're working in a bustling office or relaxing on a noisy flight.
- Immersive sound, uncompromised clarity: Experience exceptional audio fidelity with newly developed drivers Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear Headphones and DSEE Extreme technology that upscales compressed music files in real-time. With Hi-Res audio support, these headphones deliver stunning sound quality, allowing music lovers and audiophiles to enjoy tracks as the artists intended, capturing every detail and nuance for a truly engaging listening experience.
- Effortless multitasking and communication: Stay seamlessly connected with multipoint connection and crystal-clear hands-free calling, allowing you to switch between devices without missing a beat. Whether you're a busy professional or a music enthusiast, the intuitive touch controls and Speak-to-Chat feature offer quick access to ambient sound, ensuring you never miss an important conversation or cue in your environment.
- All-day comfort and convenience: Designed for prolonged use, the WH-1000XM5 Noise-Canceling Wireless Over Ear Headphones feature a lightweight, ultra-comfortable design with soft-fit leather that conforms to your ears. With up to 30 hours of battery life and quick charging capability, they are perfect for frequent travelers and daily commuters. The redesigned collapsible case provides easy storage, while Quick Access lets you tap into Spotify effortlessly.
- Bundle Includes: Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear Headphones (Black) + 6Ave Microfiber Cleaning Cloth + P-Bank Battery + Headphone / Headset Stand
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.
