Bose QuietComfort Ultra Black
Score: 88/100
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 Blue
Score: 87/100Rankings
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) is an over-ear wireless headphone offering industry-leading ANC (~87% reduction) and up to 45 hours of battery life. Its premium features come with a few trade-offs such as inconsistent bass response and a non-functional wired microphone. Ideal for travelers and users who prioritize noise cancellation and long runtime.
The Px7 S3 offers high-resolution audio with 40 mm bio-cellulose drivers, eight-mic ANC and 30 hours of battery backed by 15-minute quick charge, plus Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Lossless support. Its 300 g weight, tight clamping and non-foldable design can be uncomfortable for extended wear. Best suited for travelers and audiophiles who value sound fidelity and robust features.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
45 hoursbest | 30 hours | |
— | 40 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 480 g | 300 gbest |
— | 33 Ωbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 15 minutesbest | 15 minutesbest |
9.14 mbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.4 | 5.3 |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 45 hours | 30 hours |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 480 g | 300 g |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 55.5×155.5×213.5 mm mm | 206x156x48 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen for its industry-leading ANC (about 87% noise reduction), marathon-length battery life, and plush, lightweight comfort. They also highlight the addition of Bluetooth 5.4 multipoint and Immersive Audio spatial modes as valuable upgrades. However, critics note that sound consistency varies with ear anatomy, the wired mic is missing, and the generational leap over the 1st-gen model is modest, which may limit the perceived upgrade value.
Everyday users echo the experts on the strengths: the ANC is praised as a travel essential, the comfort allows all-day wear, and the long battery with quick-charge is a daily convenience. Recurring complaints focus on inconsistent bass/mid balance across different ear shapes, the non-functional wired microphone, and the absence of water-resistance, with some reporting listening fatigue from a still bass-heavy profile.
“ANC "best in the business" at 87% reduction”
Professional reviewers commend the Px7 S3 for its refined, high-resolution audio, powerful 40 mm bio-cellulose drivers, and robust ANC implementation. They also praise the extensive codec support, long battery life with rapid charging, and the high-grade 24-bit DAC/amplifier. Criticisms focus on the relatively tight clamping force, a slightly pressurized ANC feel, and the headphone's heavier weight compared with leading competitors.
Everyday users echo the professional praise for sound quality and battery longevity, noting the headphones feel secure and comfortable for commuting. Recurring complaints center on the clamping pressure during extended wear, a sense of pressurization from ANC, and the product's heft relative to lighter alternatives.
