QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

In this review the QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen wireless headphones are assessed for listeners who want top-tier noise cancellation and a more immersive soundstage. The bottom line: these headphones are best for users who prioritize breakthrough spatialized audio and industry-leading noise cancellation in a comfortable over-ear package, with the added benefit of long battery life and lossless USB-C audio for critical listening. They deliver a refined listening experience for music and movies while offering useful modes for real-world use.

Key Features

• Spatialized Audio: Breakthrough spatial audio places instruments and vocals in front of the listener for a wider, more natural soundstage that transforms how tracks are perceived.
• Advanced Noise Cancellation: Quiet Mode and ActiveSense technology reduce ambient noise effectively while Aware Mode and Immersion Mode let you adjust how much of your surroundings you hear.
• Cinema Mode: A dedicated mode balances background sound and effects to make video content feel more cinematic and immersive on the go.
• Lossless USB Audio: USB-C wired listening supports lossless audio for clearer, more detailed playback when fidelity matters most.
• Long Battery Life: Up to 30 hours of play time (about 23 hours with immersive audio) keeps you listening through long travel days and extended sessions.
• Comfort and Build: Plush ear cushions and a refined metal headband provide comfortable, even pressure distribution for all-day wear.

Who It's For

The QuietComfort Ultra is ideal for frequent travelers, commuters, and anyone who listens to music or watches video in noisy environments and wants best-in-class noise cancelling plus a convincing spatial listening experience. The headphones are also suited to listeners who value comfort during long sessions and occasional wired lossless listening via USB-C.

Those who need a compact foldable set for strict portability or a completely budget option should look elsewhere; these headphones prioritize premium materials, advanced processing, and immersive features over minimal size or the lowest possible price.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional noise cancellation that adapts to changing ambient sound for quieter listening.
• Immersive spatialized audio and Cinema Mode noticeably enhance music and video playback.
• Comfortable over-ear design with plush cushions and a balanced metal headband for long sessions.
• Lossless USB-C audio and long battery life offer high-fidelity wired listening and extended wireless use.

Cons

• Immersive modes reduce battery runtime to about 23 hours, so power users may need to recharge more often.
• Premium features and materials come with a higher price point compared with basic wireless headphones.

Specifications

Model	QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen Wireless
Noise Cancelling	ActiveSense Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, Immersion Mode
Audio Modes	Spatialized Audio, Cinema Mode, Immersive Audio
Wired Audio	USB-C lossless audio
Battery Life	Up to 30 hours (about 23 hours with Immersive Audio)
Connectivity	Bluetooth Core 5.4, USB-C
Included	USB-C charging cord and 20W wall charger

Our Verdict

The QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen headphones are a strong choice for listeners who want industry-leading noise cancellation, immersive spatial audio, and premium comfort. They represent good value for those who prioritize soundstage, cinematic listening, and lossless wired audio, though the premium feature set means a higher price and slightly reduced run time with immersive modes engaged.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the battery last on a single charge?
Up to 30 hours in typical use and about 23 hours when Immersive Audio or similar spatial modes are active.

Can I use wired lossless audio?
Yes, the headphones support USB-C lossless audio for wired listening with greater clarity and detail.

Do these headphones work with a companion app?
Yes, the Bose app provides software updates, personalization features like CustomTune, and access to all headphone modes.