Sony WH-1000XM5 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

This comparison uses the Sony and Bose spec pages, checked 16 October 2026. We have not listened to or measured either pair.

Spec snapshot

	Sony WH-1000XM5	Bose QC Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
Rated battery, noise cancelling on	Up to 30 h	Up to 30 h (23 h with Immersive Audio)
Rated battery, noise cancelling off	Up to 40 h	Not stated as a separate figure on the product page
Charge time	About 3.5 h	3 h
Weight	About 8.82 oz (250 g)	0.583 lb (264 g)
Bluetooth	5.2; SBC, AAC, LDAC	5.4; aptX Adaptive gaming mode with Snapdragon Sound sources
Wired	3.5 mm cable	3.5 mm to 2.5 mm cable, plus USB-C lossless audio
Water rating	None listed	None (Bose says keep dry)
Price	Check live retailer price	$449 on Bose.com, 16 Oct 2026

Sources: Sony WH-1000XM5 specifications, Bose QC Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen).

When the Sony wins

Android phones and simple wiring. LDAC sends more data over Bluetooth than AAC when the phone supports it, which most recent Android phones do and iPhones do not. A standard 3.5 mm cable also works with airline seat jacks without an adapter. The XM5 has been on sale since 2022, so retailers often discount it. Compare the live price before you decide.

When the Bose wins

Wired lossless audio and using the headphones while they charge. USB-C audio means one cable to a laptop or phone gives you sound and power together. Bose also adds Immersive Audio and a Cinema Mode for video. Expect to pay close to the $449 list unless a sale brings it down.

What would change the answer

• If you only use an iPhone, LDAC does not apply, and the choice comes down to fit, price and the Bose USB-C features.
• If the price gap is over $100, the older Sony is the value pick for the same rated battery life.
• For flights specifically, see best travel headphones.

Tools for this decision: Upgrade or keep calculator, Buy now or wait for a sale?.

FAQ

Which has the longer battery life?

On paper they are level. Sony rates the WH-1000XM5 at up to 30 hours with noise cancelling on and 40 hours with it off. Bose rates the QC Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) at up to 30 hours, or 23 with Immersive Audio on. Both figures are maker claims.

Can either be used wired?

Yes, both. The Sony takes a 3.5 mm cable. The Bose ships with a 3.5 mm to 2.5 mm cable and also plays lossless audio over USB-C, at 16-bit 44.1 or 48 kHz from compatible sources. Bose says you can listen while the headphones charge.

Are they water resistant?

Bose's product page says the QC Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) have no IP rating and should be kept dry. Sony's spec page lists no IP rating for the WH-1000XM5 either.