Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) vs Sony WF-1000XM5: which five-star earbuds should you buy?

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) and Sony WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds on a red and grey background with a white versus sign between them.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)

Bluetooth: 5.3
Codec Support: AAC, SBC, aptX Adaptive
Battery life: 6hrs (earbuds), 24hrs (total)
Finishes: x 3 (Black, White Smoke, Deep Plum)
Weight: 7.7g each

It's another five-star performance from Bose. The second-gen QC Ultra Earbuds build on the impressive first-gen model, with better sound and even more advanced noise cancellation, not to mention wireless charging. But they are outshone by the Sonys in terms of sound.

Pros

• Punchy, full-bodied sound
• Typically excellent noise cancelling
• Secure and comfortable design
• Excellent voice-call clarity

Cons

• Immersive Audio mode drains battery life
• Outstanding competition at this level
• Only three ear tip sizes

Sony WF-1000XM5

Bluetooth: 5.3
Codec support: SBC, AAC, LDAC
Battery life: 8hrs (earbuds), 24hrs (total)
Finishes: x 2 (black, silver)
Weight: 5.9g each

The reigning champs stay top. The XM5 are cheaper than the Bose, with better sound and more advanced features, though the Bose do have the comfier, sturdier design and more effective noise cancellation. It's close, but the Sonys still get our vote.

Pros

• Class-leading levels of detail and clarity
• Top-notch musicality and timing
• Comfortable, discreet design

Cons

• Some rivals produce more bass
• Could feel more secure