Bose QC Ultra (left); Bose QC Ultra 2 (right) Jada Jones/ZDNET
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ZDNET's key takeaways
Bose's and Sony's flagship headphones are exceptional in their own right.
Bose's option appeals more to laid-back listeners who prioritize comfort and simplicity.
Sony's option appeals to headphone enthusiasts who prioritize customization and utility.
Sony's and Bose's latest headphones are some of the best noise-canceling headphones you can buy. On paper, Sony wins in several categories for its advanced audio features and customization, impressive noise-canceling abilities, and long-lasting battery life. But after months with each model, I have a clearer understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.
Also: Sony just shook up the Bose rivalry with these earbuds, and I wasn't prepared for it
If you're a power user who wants headphones with granular audio customization, smart features, and that enhance their performance the more you tweak them, you'll appreciate Sony's WH-1000XM6. If you want headphones that require minimal decision-making and deliver a high-performing experience without toggling many features, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) are up your alley.
Here's how each model excels and falls flat in the real world.
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