Sony WF-1000XM5 Black
Score: 89/100
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Black
Score: 77/100Rankings
The Sony WF-1000XM5 are premium true-wireless earbuds offering industry-leading active noise cancellation and a total of up to 24 hours of playback with the charging case. They trade off a modest IPX4 water-resistance rating and a premium price point. Ideal for commuters and audiophiles who prioritize ANC and battery life.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) earbuds offer class-leading ANC and AI-personalized sound with multipoint support. Battery life is limited, especially with spatial audio, and codec options are modest. Ideal for travelers and audiophiles who value ANC and fit customization.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
24 hoursbest | 6 hours | |
8 hoursbest | 4 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 90 minutesbest | 120 minutes |
8.4 mmbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 3 minutesbest | 20 minutes |
10 metersbest | 9 meters | |
| ↓ lower better | 50.8 gbest | 80 g |
6best | 1 |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(1) | ||
Total Weight (Earbuds + Case) (g) | 50.8 g | 80 g |
Battery & Power(4) | ||
Battery Life (Total with Case) (hours) | 24 hours | 6 hours |
Battery Life (Earbuds Only) (hours) | 8 hours | 4 hours |
Charging Time (Full) (minutes) | 90 minutes | 120 minutes |
Quick Charge Time (10 min boost) (minutes) | 3 minutes | 20 minutes |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Range (meters) | 10 meters | 9 meters |
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Codecs | AAC, LC3, LDAC, SBC | SBC/AAC/aptX Adaptive |
Microphone Count | 6 | 1 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the WF-1000XM5 for its market-leading ANC, real-world battery performance that exceeds specifications, and the significant size and weight reductions that enhance portability. The inclusion of dual ANC processors, advanced microphone array, and support for high-resolution LDAC audio further solidify its position as a high-end offering, though the limited IPX4 rating is seen as a minor drawback.
Professional reviewers consider the 2nd Gen QuietComfort Ultra earbuds a solid evolution of Bose's flagship wireless line, applauding the AI-driven CustomTune personalization and the class-leading ANC, while noting that the battery penalty of Immersive Audio and the modest codec selection keep the product from being a clear market leader.
The source material does not provide direct user reviews, but the emphasis on multiple eartip sizes, stability bands, and the Bose app suggests the design aims to address common consumer concerns about fit, comfort, and personalization.
