Bose QuietComfort
Score: 80/100
Apple AirPods Max Midnight
Score: 83/100Rankings
Apple AirPods Max are over-ear headphones delivering industry-leading ANC, 20 hours of battery life, and immersive spatial audio. Their premium weight and lack of multi-device pairing limit comfort and flexibility. They cater to dedicated Apple users who value audio fidelity above all.
Bose QuietComfort headphones deliver strong active noise cancellation, lightweight comfort, and dual-device Bluetooth connectivity with NFC pairing. Their battery life is limited to 24 hours and they lack water resistance and wireless charging. Best suited for frequent travelers and professionals seeking premium ANC.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
24 hoursbest | 20 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 240 gbest | 384.9 g |
| ↓ lower better | — | 5 minutesbest |
— | 16 Ωbest | |
9 m | 15 mbest | |
1 | 9best | |
1 yearsbest | 1 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 | 20 hours |
Connectivity(3) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | 5.3 |
Bluetooth Range (m) | 9 m | 15 m |
Multipoint Pairing | true | false |
Audio(2) | ||
Noise Cancellation Type | Active | Active Noise Cancelling |
Microphone Count | 1 | 9 |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 240 g | 384.9 g |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers such as RTINGS note that the Bose QuietComfort headphones deliver strong active-noise-cancellation performance, comfortable all-day wear, and a long-lasting battery, making them a solid choice in the premium ANC market.
Pros: Active noise cancellation reduces ambient sound, providing a quiet listening environment for travel and work.; Lightweight over-ear design at only 8.5 oz ensures comfort during long listening sessions.; Up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge supports marathon use without frequent recharging.; Bluetooth 5.1 with a 30-foot wireless range and dual-device connectivity offers stable, flexible connections.; Included accessories such as a USB-C charging cable, 3.5 mm audio cable, and hard leather carrying case add value.; NFC one-touch pairing simplifies initial setup with compatible smartphones.; SimpleSync compatibility lets the headphones sync audio with Bose soundbars for home entertainment.; Removable protein-leather ear cushions are replaceable for extended durability and comfort.
Professional reviewers commend the AirPods Max for its industry-leading ANC, long 20-hour battery life even with spatial features active, and the new Adaptive Audio and Bluetooth 5.3 upgrades in the second-generation model, while noting its premium price and Apple-centric design.
Everyday owners praise the immersive Spatial Audio and the battery endurance that covers long trips, but many complain about the noticeable weight and the lack of multi-device Bluetooth pairing, describing the headphones as best suited for dedicated Apple users.
