Sony WF-1000XM6 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)
Get the Sony WF-1000XM6. Unless quiet and a secure fit matter most — then the Bose block low rumble even better.
Sony WF-1000XM6
Outstanding noise cancelling, rich detailed sound and clear calls. The best earbuds overall.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)
The strongest noise cancelling in any earbuds, and a comfy, stable fit. Battery is the weak spot.
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The Sony sound richer and more detailed and last about 8 hours with noise cancelling, against the Bose's 6. The Bose have the strongest noise cancelling in any earbuds and a more secure fit in most ears.
- —Sound quality matters most.
- —You need the longer battery.
- —You use Android: LDAC gets the most from them.
- —Quiet matters most: flights, trains, open-plan offices.
- —You have small ears, or earbuds tend to fall out.
- —You don't mind charging more often.
Key differences
Pros and cons
- +Among the very best noise cancelling
- +Rich, detailed sound with LDAC on Android
- +Clear calls and multipoint
- −The buds are bulky, and the foam tips come in XS to L only, with no extra-large size.
- −The case is big for a pocket and feels less premium than the price.
- −Battery is about 8 hours with noise cancelling, no better than the WF-1000XM5.
- −No aptX, and LDAC hi-res works on Android only.
- +The strongest noise cancelling in earbuds
- +Comfy, secure fit with stability bands
- +Clear calls, wireless charging
- −Battery is about 6 hours with noise cancelling, and around 4 with Immersive Audio on.
- −The case is large for a pocket.
- −Only splash resistant (IPX4).
Ready to choose?
How we reached this verdict
We compared independent expert reviews with the manufacturer's specifications, then checked it's sold at a major retailer where you live. We don't test products ourselves.
Sources: RTINGS, RTINGS, What Hi-Fi, manufacturer specifications.