Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Score: 85/100
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 (1st Gen) is an over-ear wireless headphone delivering industry-leading ANC and up to 24 hours of playback. Its bulkier build and lack of water resistance limit active-use scenarios. Ideal for travelers and office workers seeking premium noise cancellation.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
24 hours | 30 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 250 gbest | 310 g |
| ↓ lower better | 15 minutesbest | — |
— | 40 mmbest | |
— | 33 Ωbest | |
9 mbest | — | |
1 | 8best | |
1 years | 2 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (ANC On) (hours) | 24 hours | 30 hours |
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Codecs | SBC, AAC | aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive |
Microphone Count | 1 | 8 |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 250 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 for its best-in-class ANC, comfortable lightweight build, and innovative CustomTune calibration that keeps sound consistent across different fits. They also note the strong battery performance and robust Bluetooth 5.3 multipoint connectivity, while flagging the bulkier form factor, lack of water resistance, and the fact that a newer generation has already been released.
Users consistently praise the headphones for their comfort, long battery life, and effective noise cancellation that makes commuting and travel pleasant. Common complaints revolve around the bulkiness for active use, occasional bass variability depending on head shape or glasses, and the missing IP rating for sweat-prone activities.
“won't "drag ears down" even after hours”
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.
