Head-to-head · Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Apple AirPods Max vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.

The short answer

Apple AirPods Max comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.4 vs 4.2). The gap is mostly about Apple ecosystem users valuing build quality and seamless integration — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Apple AirPods Max

4.4

6 sources$489as of Jun 8

The Apple AirPods Max pair premium sound and industry-leading noise cancellation with a luxurious, durable metal build. Their high price is compounded by real drawbacks: a smart case that protects almost nothing, no 3.5mm jack, and limited functionality once you step outside the Apple ecosystem. Dedicated Apple users will love them; anyone shopping for flexibility or better value should look elsewhere.

Strengths

— Best-in-class active noise canceling and transparency mode
— Sturdy all-metal build with stainless steel headband and aluminum ear cups
— Extremely comfortable ear pads with soft fabric and even weight distribution

Watch-outs

— Smart case provides virtually no protection and is considered terrible
— No 3.5mm headphone jack, requiring an adapter for wired listening
— Proximity sensors and voice assistant features do not work on Android or Windows

$489 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #5 in Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

4.2

7 sources$327.99as of Aug 1

Top-tier noise cancellation and exceptional comfort make the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones a real upgrade for daily travelers and commuters. The missing water resistance and the premium price will put some buyers off, and there are minor reports of audio channel inconsistencies.

Strengths

— Industry-leading Active Noise Cancelling with CustomTune calibration
— Exceptional comfort with soft padding and a lightweight 253g design
— Supports high-quality audio codecs including aptX Adaptive and Snapdragon Sound

Watch-outs

— No IP rating for water or sweat resistance
— High retail price point compared to competitors
— Some users reported occasional channel matching issues

$327.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Apple AirPods Max

The Apple AirPods Max offer a unique all-metal build and durability that the plastic-heavy Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra cannot match, alongside a superior transparency mode. However, they are significantly heavier than the Bose and Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless, lack a 3.5mm jack unlike the Sennheiser and Bowers & Wilkins Px8, and suffer from a non-protective case that no other competitor in this list shares.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

While the Bose QuietComfort Ultra matches the Sony WH-1000XM5 in noise cancellation prowess, it distinguishes itself with superior lightweight comfort that outshines the heavier Bowers & Wilkins Px8. It falls short of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless in battery endurance and lacks the premium metal construction of the Apple AirPods Max, making it a comfort-first choice rather than a durability or battery king.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Apple AirPods Max	Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Driver Size	40 mm	—
Driver Type	Dynamic	Bose custom
Bluetooth Version	5.0	5.3
Weight	386 g	250g
Charging Method	Lightning connector	USB-C
Codecs	AAC, SBC	AAC, aptX Adaptive
ANC	yes	Yes
Battery Life	20 hr	24 hr
Dimensions	9.75 x 9.5 x 3.25 in	—

← See the full ranking of best noise cancelling headphones