Sony WH-1000XM5 VS Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Published October 12, 2025 • 10 min read • 4 views

Head-to-Head Comparison

Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony WH-1000XM5
$398
Current MSRP
Overall Winner
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
$479.95
Current MSRP

Both Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra offer premium noise cancellation, high-fidelity audio, and comfortable fit, but they differ in sound profile, battery life, and user interface.

Quick Specs Comparison

Specification Sony WH-1000XM5 Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Noise Cancellation V1+QN1 Dual Processor, Auto Noise Canceling Optimizer World-class noise cancellation with spatial audio
Battery Life Up to 30 hours of playback time Up to 24 hours of playtime
Audio Quality Crystal Clear Hands-Free Calling, HD Sound High-fidelity audio performance with immersive spatial audio
Connectivity Bluetooth 5.3, LDAC Bluetooth 5.3, Bose Connect App
Comfort Lightweight and durable design All-day comfort with premium materials
Price $398 $479.95

Overall Scores

Sony WH-1000XM5

8.7
WINNER
Noise Cancellation 9.5/10
Audio Quality 8.6/10
Battery Life 9/10
Comfort 8.8/10
Connectivity 9.2/10

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

8.4
RUNNER-UP
Noise Cancellation 8.7/10
Audio Quality 9/10
Battery Life 8.5/10
Comfort 9.2/10
Connectivity 8.3/10

Detailed Analysis

Noise Cancellation

Winner: Sony WH-1000XM5

The Sony WH-1000XM5 excels with its dual processor system and advanced noise cancellation technology, offering superior quietness.

Audio Quality

Winner: Bose QuietComfort Ultra

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra delivers a more immersive audio experience with its high-fidelity sound and spatial audio feature.

Battery Life

Winner: Sony WH-1000XM5

With up to 30 hours of playback time, the Sony WH-1000XM5 outlasts the Bose QuietComfort Ultra by a significant margin.

Connectivity Features

Winner: Sony WH-1000XM5

The Sony WH-1000XM5 supports Bluetooth 5.3 and LDAC for high-quality audio streaming.

Comfort & Design

Winner: Bose QuietComfort Ultra

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra stands out with its premium materials and ergonomic design, ensuring all-day comfort.

Final Verdict

The Sony WH-1000XM5 is the clear winner due to its superior noise cancellation and longer battery life, making it a more versatile option for daily use.

Choose Sony WH-1000XM5 if:

  • Superior noise cancellation technology
  • Longer battery life
  • Support for high-quality audio streaming

Choose Bose QuietComfort Ultra if:

  • Immersive spatial audio experience
  • Premium comfort and design
  • High-fidelity sound quality

Where to Buy

Sony WH-1000XM5

$398

Current MSRP

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

$479.95

Current MSRP

Prices may vary by retailer and configuration