Bose QuietComfort 25
Score: 92/100
Sony WH-ULT900NB
Score: 91/100Rankings
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 ULT WEAR targets bass-enthusiasts with punchy, customizable low-end performance and solid ANC. It adds eco-friendly construction, quick charging, and multipoint Bluetooth, but the touch controls and lack of water resistance limit its appeal for some users.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
35 hoursbest | 30 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 194 gbest | 255 g |
— | 40 mmbest | |
— | 50 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 10 minutesbest |
| ↓ lower better | — | 314 Ωbest |
— | 110 dB SPLbest | |
— | 10 mbest |
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) | Dual Noise Sensor |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 194 g | 255 g |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (ANC On) (hours) | 35 hours | 30 hours |
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 commend the ULT WEAR for its punchy bass, solid ANC, and feature set that includes LDAC, multipoint Bluetooth, and voice-assistant support, positioning it as a strong value proposition in the mid-range segment. However, they note the non-neutral tuning, overly sensitive touch controls, and lack of waterproofing as drawbacks that keep it from challenging higher-end Sony models.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the headphones for comfort, bass boost, effective ANC, and long battery life, especially appreciating the quick-charge capability and eco-friendly build. Common complaints revolve around the bass not being tight enough, accidental control activations, a recessed soundstage, and the absence of water resistance.
“Best noise cancellation I've ever used - blocks out airplane noise completely.”
“No Bluetooth is a dealbreaker in 2026.”
“They fit perfectly… These are terrific, happy to have them.”
