Bose QuietComfort 25
Score: 92/100
Sony WH-1000XM4
Score: 92/100Rankings
The Bose QuietComfort 25 delivers classic over-ear ANC performance with a lightweight, comfortable build and up to 35 hours of playback via a replaceable AAA battery. Its wired-only nature and dated connectors limit its appeal for users seeking modern wireless features.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 remains a benchmark for premium wireless noise-cancelling headphones, offering top-tier ANC, high-resolution audio support, and a suite of smart features with excellent battery life. It is ideal for travelers, remote workers, and audiophiles seeking premium sound and comfort.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
35 hoursbest | 30 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 194 gbest | 453.6 g |
— | 40 mmbest | |
— | 38 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 10 minutesbest |
— | 105 dB SPLbest | |
— | 10 mbest | |
0.25 years | 1 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Noise Cancellation Type | Active Acoustic Noise Cancelling (ANC) | Active |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 194 g | 453.6 g |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (ANC On) (hours) | 35 hours | 30 hours |
Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Period (years) | 0.25 years | 1 years |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the QC25 for its class-leading ANC, comfortable lightweight construction, and long battery life that can be replaced with any AAA cell. Sound quality is highlighted as balanced and detailed, and the ability to function without power is seen as a practical advantage. Criticisms focus on the lack of wireless connectivity, limited Android remote support, and the absence of an ANC power switch, which make the model feel dated compared to newer Bluetooth offerings.
Everyday users consistently commend the QC25's noise cancellation, comfort and clear sound, often noting that the headphones still perform well years after purchase. Common complaints revolve around the wired-only design, fragile 2.5 mm cable connector, limited Android remote functionality, ear-pad wear and the missing ANC on/off switch that can drain the battery.
Professional reviewers hailed the WH-1000XM4 as the benchmark for noise-cancelling headphones at launch, praising its ANC, sound fidelity, comfort, battery endurance, and intelligent features.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the XM4's noise cancellation, sound quality, comfort, and quick-charge convenience, while noting occasional sensitivity of Speak-to-Chat and lack of water resistance.
“Best noise cancellation I've ever used - blocks out airplane noise completely.”
“No Bluetooth is a dealbreaker in 2026.”
“The noise cancellation is incredible-blocks out airplane engines and office chatter completely.”
