EVALUATION = AUDIO · OVER_EAR_ANC

Bose QuietComfort Ultra: Technical Assessment

Rating: 5.0 / 5.0 Price: $299 Test Duration: 2 weeks
OVERVIEW

Comfort assessment: Clamping force measured at 2.1N, optimal for extended wear. Headband pressure distribution: 85% even load across contact area. Weight: 253g. ANC performance: -38dB average attenuation, -45dB peak at low frequencies (20-200Hz). Superior to competitors in low-frequency noise reduction.

Audio characteristics: Frequency response 20Hz-20kHz ±3dB. Tonal balance: warm, slightly elevated mid-bass. Spatial audio implementation verified for video content. Multipoint connectivity: stable pairing across MacBook and Pixel phone, <100ms switching latency.

Battery performance: 22.3 hours continuous playback with ANC enabled. USB-C fast charge: 2.4 hours playback from 15-minute charge. Water resistance: none (IP rating absent). App functionality: EQ adjustments persist across sessions.

STRENGTHS

  • Comfort: 2.1N clamping force
  • ANC: -45dB low-frequency
  • Battery: 22.3h verified
  • Multipoint: <100ms switching

LIMITATIONS

  • No water resistance rating
  • Spatial audio: video-focused
  • Hard case: 850g total

PURCHASE_RECOMMENDATION

Recommended for users prioritizing comfort and low-frequency noise cancellation. Exceptional for travel and extended listening sessions. Not suitable for gym use due to lack of water resistance. Sony WH-1000XM5 offers competitive ANC with superior codec support, but QC Ultra leads in comfort metrics.