Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd gen) Review: The King of Quiet Refined

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

When it comes to noise cancellation, Bose has long been the gold standard. With the second generation of their QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, they’ve taken an already class-leading product and refined it, adding a few key features that make the best even better. This isn’t a revolutionary leap, but a masterful evolution that solidifies their position at the top.

Design & Comfort: Big but Secure

Bose hasn’t reinvented the wheel with the Ultra Earbuds’ design. They retain the familiar stem shape, which is a bit larger than some competitors, but the inclusion of three sizes of ear tips and stability bands ensures a secure, comfortable fit for most users. The buds are rated IPX4, making them perfectly fine for a workout or a light drizzle. One minor drawback is the touch controls, which can be a bit sensitive and are easy to accidentally trigger when adjusting the fit. However, this is a minor quibble given the overall comfort and stability.

The Undisputed ANC Champion

This is where the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds truly shine. The active noise cancellation (ANC) is simply phenomenal. Bose’s new algorithm for their ActiveSense technology provides smoother, more seamless transitions when faced with sudden loud noises like sirens or a passing train. Low-frequency rumbles are completely erased, and even higher-frequency sounds like office chatter are significantly muffled. In the “Quiet Mode,” the world simply falls away, leaving you in a blissful cocoon of silence. It’s a truly a premium experience and is still the best ANC on the market.

Sound Quality: Rich, Warm, and Personalized

The sound profile is rich and full-bodied with a punchy, musical quality. The bass is deep and taut, while the mids are warm and natural. Highs are clear and sparkly without being fatiguing. A standout feature is Bose’s CustomTune technology, which uses a calibration tone to tailor the sound and noise cancellation to the unique shape of your ear canal. It’s a subtle but effective way to get the best possible performance.

The big new feature is Bose Immersive Audio, a spatialized audio mode that moves the sound out of your head and places it in front of you, creating a wider soundstage. While it’s a compelling effect for some tracks, it’s not a must-have for every song. It also significantly impacts battery life, so you’ll likely use it sparingly.

Battery Life & Connectivity: Good, but Not Groundbreaking

Bose promises up to six hours of listening time with ANC on, which drops to four hours when using Immersive Audio. The case provides three additional charges, for a total of 24 hours. While this is competitive with rivals like Apple and Sony, it’s not an improvement over the previous generation. The addition of wireless charging to the case, however, is a welcome and long-overdue feature. The earbuds also support Bluetooth 5.3 and multipoint connectivity, allowing you to seamlessly switch between two devices.

Final Verdict: An Unmatched Audio Experience

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd gen) are the definition of an elite audio product. They offer a level of noise cancellation that is simply unrivaled, paired with a warm, engaging sound signature and a comfortable fit. While they could have a longer battery life and a more precise EQ in the app, these are minor criticisms. If you prioritize world-class noise cancellation and a top-tier listening experience, these earbuds are an easy recommendation—and a worthy upgrade for anyone seeking a truly silent escape.

If you are looking for the best earbuds for you, be sure to check out all our headphone and earbuds reviews