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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen)

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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen)Specs, rankings & alternatives

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Is the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen) worth it?

Yes, for the right buyer. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen) ranks #8 in our Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2026 list. Its biggest strength: excellent noise cancelling. The main caveat: shorter battery than rivals (about 24 h).

Overview

What the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen) does well

Bose's flagship ANC headphones with spatial Immersive Audio; a 2nd-gen model has since been released.

The first-gen Bose QuietComfort Ultra remains one of the most comfortable, best-cancelling headphones available. With a 2nd gen now out, buy it only at a meaningful discount.From our full Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen) review
By the numbers

Specifications

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen) specifications
SpecificationDetail
TypeOver-ear, wireless, ANC
Battery (Bose spec)Up to 24 hours
Spatial audioBose Immersive Audio
CodecsSBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive (on supporting devices)
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.3, multipoint
DesignFolding, with case
The trade-offs

Pros & cons

Pros

  • Excellent noise cancelling
  • Very comfortable for long wear
  • Immersive spatial audio
  • Premium build

Cons

  • Shorter battery than rivals (about 24 h)
  • Expensive
  • Superseded by a 2nd-gen model
Fit check

Should you buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones ?

Buy it if you're…

  • Frequent flyers who prioritize comfort
  • Buyers who find a strong discount
  • Listeners who like spatial audio

Think twice if this matters to you

  • Battery-life-first buyers
  • Shoppers who can get the 2nd gen at a similar price
Where it ranks

Featured in 1 best-of list

ListRank
Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2026#8 / 8
Cross-shop

Alternatives to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen)

Products ranked near it in our research, each better for a slightly different buyer.

Buying advice: noise cancelling headphones

  1. Over-ear designs typically block more noise.
  2. Check clamping force and cushions.
  3. Look for 20+ hours.
  4. Good mics help in noisy places.
  5. Multipoint and app EQ add convenience.

Read the full guides

Answers

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen): common questions

Is the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen) worth buying?

Yes, for the right buyer. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen) ranks #8 in our Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2026 list. Its biggest strength: excellent noise cancelling. The main caveat: shorter battery than rivals (about 24 h).

Who is the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen) best for?

Based on our research it suits comfort-focused frequent flyers. It's ranked #8 of 8 in our Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2026 list.

What are the downsides of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen)?

The main trade-offs owners and reviewers point to: shorter battery than rivals (about 24 h); expensive; superseded by a 2nd-gen model.

What are the best alternatives to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen)?

Worth comparing: Sennheiser Momentum 5 Wireless Headphones, Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Headphones and Soundcore Space One Noise Cancelling Headphones. Each ranks near it in our research for a slightly different buyer.

Where can I buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen)?

It's sold on Amazon. Prices and stock change often, so check the current listing before you buy, our link takes you straight to it.

Why did my ANC suddenly stop working?

The most common cause is a firmware update that reset the ANC settings, or the ANC toggle being accidentally turned off via the headphone's control app or physical button. Check the ANC mode in the companion app first. If that is correct, try a firmware check and then reset to factory defaults.

Why does my ANC headphone sound like the noise is louder with ANC on?

This is usually caused by a broken or obstructed external microphone. The ANC system needs to sample the incoming noise through the external mics before generating anti-noise. If a mic is blocked or damaged, the system generates incorrect anti-noise that can amplify rather than cancel certain frequencies.

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