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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen) Review

Bose's first-generation QuietComfort Ultra Headphones set a high bar for comfort and noise cancelling. Now that a second generation is on sale, the first gen is mainly a question of price.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen)

Bose

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen)

Best for: comfort-focused frequent flyers

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Our verdict

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.

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

By the numbers

Key specifications

From manufacturer documentation. Confirm current specs on the listing.

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

Strengths & limitations

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  • Superseded by a 2nd-gen model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

Who should buy it?

A good fit if you…

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

Look elsewhere if you…

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

Comfort and Noise Cancelling

Comfort is the QC Ultra's standout trait. Plush cushions and a well-balanced clamp make it comfortable for long flights, a strength independent reviews consistently note.

Noise cancelling is among the best available, especially for low-frequency noise like aircraft engines. Bose's Aware mode provides natural-sounding pass-through.

Immersive Audio

Bose's Immersive Audio creates a spatial effect, either fixed or following head movement. It works with any content but uses more battery. Many listeners leave it off for music.

Battery and Drawbacks

Bose quotes up to 24 hours, shorter than Sony's 30 hours, and Immersive Audio reduces it further. The first generation cannot be used wired while powered off; the second generation addressed some usability complaints, including adding USB-C audio.

If the 2nd gen costs only a little more, it's the better buy. If the 1st gen is heavily discounted, it remains an excellent headphone.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st Gen)

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Answers

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between QC Ultra 1st and 2nd gen?

The 2nd gen added usability improvements such as USB-C audio and refinements to battery and features. Check current comparisons for details.

How long does the QC Ultra battery last?

Bose quotes up to 24 hours, less with Immersive Audio on.

Are QC Ultra headphones good for flights?

Yes. Their comfort and low-frequency noise cancelling are well suited to air travel.

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