Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) vs Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) is the better pick — it scores 79/100 to the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds's 53, leading on Noise Cancelling and Calls. Choose the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds instead if battery and build matter most to you, where it comes out ahead.

  • Sound quality isn't scored yet (we have no measured audio data), so the score covers features, battery, noise cancelling and build.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Key takeaways

  • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) leads Bose Ultra Open Earbuds overall by 26 points (79 vs 53 out of 100).
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) leads overall
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)
79
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
53

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are premium wireless in-ear headphones designed for everyday commuting, travel, and personal audio listening. They incorporate spatial audio with dynamic head tracking and support Bluetooth 5.3 alongside the aptX Adaptive codec and multipoint pairing. The earbuds provide 6 hours of continuous battery life per charge, with an additional 18 hours supplied by the included wireless charging case.

Best for Travelers needing effective active noise cancellation and spatial audio featuresBest for Multi-device users requiring seamless switching via Bluetooth multipoint
Pros
  • Active noise cancellation combined with head-tracking spatial audio
  • Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity with aptX Adaptive codec and multipoint support
  • Convenient wireless charging case with quick-charge capabilities
Cons
  • Single-charge playback is limited to 6 hours
  • IPX4 rating provides only basic splash resistance

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are an innovative open-ear audio device designed for users who want to enjoy music or calls while remaining fully aware of their physical surroundings. Featuring Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, support for aptX Adaptive, and a distinct cuff-like design weighing 6 grams per earbud, they cater to active listeners and commuters who prioritize situational awareness over active noise cancellation.

Best for Outdoor runners and cyclists needing environmental awarenessBest for All-day office listening without blocking background conversation
Pros
  • Comfortable open-ear cuff design that leaves the ear canal unblocked
  • Multipoint connection support for seamless device switching
  • Robust battery life offering up to 7.5 hours per charge with quick-charging capabilities
  • Advanced codec support including SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive
Cons
  • Lacks active noise cancellation due to the open-ear design
  • Moderate IPX4 water resistance rating offers basic sweat and splash protection only

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)
59.9g
Weight
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)
7.7g
Weight
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
6g
Weight

Review Videos

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Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) vs Bose Ultra Open Earbuds comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) rates higher at 78/100 versus 58/100 for Bose Ultra Open Earbuds — a 20-point lead. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) and Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are compared side by side above across every spec in the earbuds category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 78/100 for Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) and 58/100 for Bose Ultra Open Earbuds.
If you want the higher-rated earbuds option overall, Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) (78/100) edges out Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (58/100). But if Bose Ultra Open Earbuds is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.

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