Bose
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Headphones
$429List price
Explore this product Your shortlist, side by side
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones vs Sony WH-1000XM5
Find the differences that matter for your next decision.
Sony
Sony WH-1000XM5
Headphones
$399List price
Explore this product What matters most to you?
Start with all rankable specifications, or focus on a particular use.
Your starting point
Tied overall. Sony WH-1000XM5 is cheaper.
- The 4 rankable overall specs split 2 to 2.
- Saves $30 at list price.
How we reached this
We compare the published specifications relevant to your priority. Each rankable specification counts once; your selected requirements can rule a product out. This is a guide to the numbers, not a laboratory performance score.
Refine your requirements
Your other devices
What would rule one out?
Side by side
The differences, in detail.
Start with the key specs, then explore as much as you need.
| What you’re comparing | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| WeightDesign | 253 g (8.9 oz) | 250 g (8.8 oz) |
| FoldableDesign | Yes (fully collapsible hinges) | No (swivels flat into case) |
| Carrying caseDesign | Reinforced zippered hard carry case included | Collapsible hard-shell zip travel case included |
| Active Noise CancellingAudio | Yes (Quiet Mode with CustomTune audio calibration) | Yes (Dual Processor V1 + HD QN1 with 8 microphones) |
| Battery lifeConnectivity & Battery | 24 hours (ANC on) / 18 hours (Immersive Audio on) | 30 hours (ANC on) / 40 hours (ANC off) |
Showing 5 of 14 specifications. Missing values stay unlisted. About the sources
Both sides of the decision
What you gain. What you give up.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Reasons to choose it
- Exceptional noise cancellation in low-frequency rumble and vocal bands
- Folds completely compact into slim travel case
- Bose Immersive Audio provides wide virtual soundstage
Worth considering
- Battery life drops to 18 hours with Immersive Audio on
- Custom EQ in app is limited to 3 bands
Sony WH-1000XM5
Reasons to choose it
- Industry-leading active noise cancellation with Auto NC Optimizer
- Exceptional 30-hour battery life with ANC enabled
- Lightweight, pressure-relieving soft fit leather design
Worth considering
- Headband does not fold into compact ball (swivels flat only)
- Touch sensor gestures can occasionally misfire in rain
Beyond the spec sheet
Living with your choice.
Explore the ownership details available for this pair.
Comfort, Clamp & Travel Fit Check
Ergonomic factors that affect daily comfort, glasses wearers, and luggage space.
Folding & Travel Packability
Bose
Folds flat & collapses into compact travel case
Sony
Swivels flat only (larger case, does not fold inward)
Clamp Force & Glasses Comfort
Bose
Ultra-plush gentle clamp (~4.1 N, best-in-class glasses comfort)
Sony
Balanced clamp force (~4.4 N, synthetic leather)
Weight & Crown Pressure
Bose
253g (featherweight travel balance)
Sony
250g (featherweight on crown)
Everyday ownership notes
Documented ergonomic quirks, hardware annoyances, and maintenance realities reported by real owners.
Bose: What to watch for
- Hardware Quirk
Capacitive touch volume strip can be overly sensitive.
- Software / Apps
Occasional Bluetooth multi-point audio handover stutter.
Sony: What to watch for
- Ergonomics
Non-folding headband takes up significantly more backpack space.
- Software / Apps
Auto-NC Optimizer cannot be manually locked to maximum.
- Hardware Quirk
Matte plastic coating shows greasy finger smudge marks easily.
Know what’s behind the comparison
Published specs. Visible sources.
Clinchmark compares manufacturer specifications and other published information. We have not independently lab-tested these products. Editorial assessments and unknown values are identified in the specification details.
Catalog snapshot: September 1, 2026. Prices, availability, and provider terms can change.
Still weighing it up?
Which is cheaper, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones or the Sony WH-1000XM5?
Sony WH-1000XM5 costs $30 less at list price.
What is the biggest catch with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones or Sony WH-1000XM5?
Sony WH-1000XM5 has this deal-breaker: does not fold. Takes a bigger slot in a carry-on.
Which is better for flights & commutes, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones or the Sony WH-1000XM5?
For flights & commutes, buy the Sony WH-1000XM5. Leads 2 of 3 rankable flights & commutes specs; Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones takes 1. Battery life: 30 hours vs 24 hours
What cannot be compared from spec sheets?
Of the 14 specs tracked here, 10 are descriptive and cannot be ranked on numbers alone. Spec sheets also cannot measure subjective factors like build quality, real-world performance, or comfort.