Bose QuietComfort Ultra Black
Score: 86/100
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition
Score: 88/100Rankings
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 McLaren Edition combines carbon-cone drivers, 24-bit DSP and an 8-mic ANC system for premium sound and noise cancellation, but it lacks a fast-charge spec and has a relatively bulky case. Its luxury materials and 30-hour battery make it a standout for audiophiles who value style and performance. Best suited for users seeking high-resolution wireless audio with a premium aesthetic.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) builds on its predecessor with up to 45 hours of battery and ~87% noise reduction. However, inconsistent sound balance and no water-resistance keep it from being a universal upgrade. Best suited for frequent travelers and long-duration listeners.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 30 hoursbest | |
45 hoursbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 480 g | 310 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | 15 minutesbest | — |
— | 40 mmbest | |
— | 33 Ωbest | |
9 mbest | — | |
1 | 8best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (ANC On) (hours) | 30-37 hours | 30 hours |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.4 | 5.3 |
Audio(1) | ||
Microphone Count | 1 | 8 |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 480 g | 310 g |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 2 years |
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 Px8 S2 McLaren Edition for its upgraded sound signature, deeper bass, clearer mids, and premium build, while noting a modest loss of micro-detail versus the Mark Levinson 5909.
Everyday owners praise the high-performance DSP, premium materials and effective ANC, but note the lack of fast charging and the larger carry case.
