Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

Name: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
Brand: Bose
SKU: 8498

Manufacturer: Bose

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) are over-ear headphones that combine wireless and wired connectivity in a foldable, lightweight design weighing 265 g. Built with active noise cancellation alongside passive noise reduction, they also support ambient sound mode, giving users control over how much of their surroundings they hear. In-ear detection enables automatic playback pausing, while on-device controls keep adjustments straightforward.

Powered by Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Adaptive support, the headphones reach a maximum wireless range of 10 m and accommodate two devices simultaneously through multipoint connectivity. Audio reproduction spans the full 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz range via 40 mm drivers, and spatial audio is also supported. The rechargeable battery delivers up to 30 hours of use, charges fully in 3 hours via USB Type-C, and includes a battery level indicator. A noise-canceling microphone and headset functionality round out the feature set.

Pros

Supports active noise cancellation alongside passive noise reduction for layered ambient sound blocking
Foldable design with a detachable, tangle-free cable makes it practical for travel and storage
30-hour battery life with USB Type-C charging and a battery level indicator for easy power management
Multipoint connectivity allows simultaneous pairing with two devices
In/on-ear detection automatically pauses playback when the headphones are taken off
Spatial audio support adds a dimensional quality to the listening experience

Cons

No water or moisture resistance, limiting use in outdoor or active settings
Wireless range is capped at 10 m, which may be restrictive in larger spaces
Wireless charging is not supported, requiring a wired connection for every charge
Lacks a dedicated mute function, which can be inconvenient during calls
AAC, LDAC, and other widely used audio codecs are not supported, limiting compatibility with certain devices and streaming scenarios

Who is this for?

These headphones are well-suited to frequent travelers and commuters who benefit from active noise cancellation combined with passive noise reduction, effectively managing disruptive environments. The foldable build, detachable cable, and 30-hour battery life make them practical for long journeys without frequent recharging. Users who regularly switch between devices will also appreciate multipoint connectivity, while those who take calls on the go will find value in the noise-canceling microphone and headset functionality.

Who is this NOT for?

Users who exercise or use headphones in wet or humid conditions will find these unsuitable, as there is no water or moisture resistance of any kind. Audiophiles who rely on high-resolution wireless codecs such as LDAC or AAC for lossless-quality streaming will be limited by the restricted codec support. Additionally, those who need freedom of movement across larger spaces may find the 10 m Bluetooth range restrictive, and users who prefer the convenience of wireless charging will need to adapt to wired-only recharging.

Design:

Fit	Over-ear
weight	265 g
has a detachable cable	✓
water resistance	None
can be folded	✓
is designed for kids	✕
has a tangle free cable	✓
has an open-back design	✕
has stereo speakers	✓

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) feature an over-ear fit and weigh 265 g, making them a relatively compact option that can also be folded for easier storage and transport. The closed-back design incorporates stereo speakers and comes with both a detachable and tangle-free cable. Water resistance is not provided, and the headphones are not intended for children.

Sound quality:

has active noise cancellation (ANC)	✓
lowest frequency	20 Hz
highest frequency	20000 Hz
driver unit size	40 mm
supports spatial audio	✓
has passive noise reduction	✓

The headphones deliver audio across a 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz frequency range through 40 mm drivers, covering the full spectrum of human hearing. Both active noise cancellation and passive noise reduction are present, working together to limit unwanted ambient sound. Spatial audio is also supported, adding a further dimension to the listening experience.

Power:

Battery life	30 hours
charge time	3 hours
Has USB Type-C	✓
has a battery level indicator	✓
has wireless charging	✕
Has a solar power battery	✕
has a rechargeable battery	✓
has a removable battery	✕

The headphones are equipped with a built-in rechargeable battery that provides up to 30 hours of battery life and fully charges in 3 hours via USB Type-C. A battery level indicator keeps users informed of remaining charge at a glance. The battery is not removable, and neither wireless charging nor solar charging is supported.

Connectivity:

connectivity	Wireless & wired
Bluetooth version	5.4
has aptX Adaptive	✓
has aptX	✕
has LDAC	✕
has LDHC	✕
has Bluetooth LE Audio	✕
has aptX Low Latency	✕
has aptX HD	✕
has aptX Lossless	✕
has AAC	✕
has Auracast	✕
maximum Bluetooth range	10 m
supports Bluetooth pairing using NFC	✕

The headphones support both wireless and wired connectivity, with the wireless side running on Bluetooth 5.4 and offering a maximum range of 10 m. Among audio codecs, only aptX Adaptive is supported — aptX, aptX HD, aptX Low Latency, aptX Lossless, AAC, LDAC, and LDHC are all absent. Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast are likewise not available, and NFC pairing is not supported.

Features:

has a noise-canceling microphone	✓
has ambient sound mode	✓
has in/on-ear detection	✓
has a mute function	✕
multipoint count	2
control panel placed on a device	✓
can be used as a headset	✓
Has an in-line control panel	✕

The headphones include a noise-canceling microphone and can function as a headset, making them suitable for calls alongside music listening. Ambient sound mode allows users to let in environmental audio when needed, and in/on-ear detection enables automatic playback pausing when the headphones are removed. Multipoint connectivity supports simultaneous pairing with two devices, and on-device controls are available for easy adjustments. An in-line control panel is not present, and there is no dedicated mute function.

Final Verdict

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) present a well-rounded set of specifications for users who prioritize noise management and extended wireless use. With active noise cancellation backed by passive noise reduction, a 30-hour battery, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Adaptive, and practical touches like multipoint pairing and in/on-ear detection, the headphones cover the core needs of daily commuters and frequent travelers effectively. Their limitations — notably the absence of water resistance, a narrow codec selection, and a modest wireless range — mean they are best kept to controlled, everyday environments rather than active or demanding ones. For users whose primary concern is focused, uninterrupted listening across extended sessions, the QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) delivers a coherent and capable package.