By Taylor Bennett 
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) Review: Immersive Audio Bliss
In the ever-evolving world of wireless earbuds, finding the perfect blend of noise cancellation, audio quality, and comfort can feel like an impossible quest. But Bose, a name synonymous with premium audio, aims to deliver just that with their latest offering. Today, we’re reviewing the Bose New QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen), a feature-packed set of earbuds promising world-class noise cancellation, immersive audio, and a comfortable fit. Let’s dive in and see if they live up to the hype.
Detailed Review
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) build upon the already impressive legacy of the QuietComfort series, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in wireless audio. The standout feature, of course, is the noise cancellation. Bose claims it’s their best yet, and from our testing, it’s hard to disagree. The enhanced ActiveSense technology intelligently smooths out sudden spikes in ambient sound, making even the disruptive noises of a bustling city fade into a distant hum. Even in Aware Mode, which allows you to hear your surroundings, distractions are kept to a minimum.
CustomTune technology is another key innovation. These earbuds analyze your unique ear shape and adapt the sound profile and noise cancellation accordingly. This personalized approach results in an incredibly immersive and tailored listening experience. Whether you’re jamming out to your favorite tunes or settling in for a podcast, the audio quality is consistently crisp, clear, and well-balanced.
Bose offers flexibility with its Quiet, Aware, and Immersive modes. Quiet Mode provides the ultimate in noise isolation, while Aware Mode allows you to stay connected to your surroundings. Immersive Audio, perhaps the most intriguing addition, spatializes the audio, creating a wider, more natural soundstage. It truly feels like the music is coming from beyond the earbuds, placing you in the “acoustic sweet spot.” Cinema Mode also enhances video content by spatializing the audio and balancing background sounds for a more theatrical experience.
Comfort and fit are paramount for earbuds, and Bose doesn’t disappoint. The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds come with nine different combinations of eartips and stability bands. The umbrella-shaped eartips effectively seal the ear canal, enhancing noise cancellation, while the stability bands ensure a secure and comfortable fit, even during workouts. The IPX4 rating provides peace of mind against sweat and splashes.
Call quality is excellent, thanks to SpeechClarity technology, which utilizes noise-rejecting microphones to isolate your voice and minimize background noise. You can confidently take calls in noisy environments without worrying about being misunderstood. The earbuds also support Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, allowing you to seamlessly switch between devices. Battery life is decent, offering up to 6 hours of playback in Quiet or Aware Mode (4 hours with Immersive Audio), and the wireless charging case provides an additional 12-18 hours of playtime. Charging via USB-C is also supported.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| World-class noise cancellation | Battery life could be better, especially with Immersive Audio |
| CustomTune technology for personalized sound | Premium price point |
| Immersive Audio spatialization | Some users may find the “Immersive Audio” effect artificial |
| Comfortable and secure fit with multiple eartip options | Limited Edition color may not appeal to everyone |
| Excellent call quality |
Excellent Alternatives
- Sony WF-1000XM5: A strong contender in noise cancellation and sound quality.
- Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation): Best for Apple ecosystem users with seamless integration.
- Technics EAH-AZ80: Offers exceptional sound quality and comfortable fit.
Final Verdict
The Bose New QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are a top-tier offering in the world of wireless earbuds. Their exceptional noise cancellation, personalized sound, and comfortable fit make them a compelling choice for discerning listeners. While the price point may be a barrier for some, the performance and features justify the investment for those seeking the best possible audio experience on the go. If you value immersive sound and powerful noise cancellation, these earbuds are definitely worth considering.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4.5/5