They are closely matched: Bose QuietComfort 45 scores 82/100 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen scores 82/100 in our overall comparison — within 1 points. Neither is a clear winner overall, so the decision comes down to the specific features and price that matter most to you.
Bose QuietComfort 45 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen and Bose QuietComfort 45 are closely matched overall (within 4 points).
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen stands out on Wireless Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.4, Battery Life (ANC On): 30 h.
- Bose QuietComfort 45 counters with Comfort & Build Weight: 240 g.
- Best value: Bose QuietComfort 45 (from $329) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen and Bose QuietComfort 45 are closely matched
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen
79
Bose QuietComfort 45
75
Where Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen stands out
- Wireless Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.4
- Battery Life (ANC On): 30 h
Where Bose QuietComfort 45 stands out
- Comfort & Build Weight: 240 g
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jul 2026.
Bose QuietComfort 45
The Bose QuietComfort 45 is a pair of over-ear, active noise-canceling headphones designed primarily for commuters and frequent travelers. They serve as a successor in Bose's well-established line of portable audio gear, focusing heavily on physical comfort and ambient noise isolation.
Best for blocking out persistent background rumble during flights and daily commutesBest for extended listening sessions where a lightweight fit and low clamping force are n
Pros
- Highly effective active noise cancellation capable of isolating ambient environmental sound
- Lightweight and folding physical design that ensures long-term wearing comfort
- Tactile physical button controls that offer reliable, physical feedback over touch-sensitive alternatives
Cons
- Face stiff market competition from both newer releases and prominent rivals in the same segment
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) are premium wireless over-ear headphones designed for consumers prioritizing top-tier active noise cancellation and comfort during travel or daily commutes. This iterative update introduces highly anticipated USB-C audio support, alongside Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and upgraded spatial processing features. While maintaining the premium aesthetic of the previous model, this version focuses on refined performance and expanded physical connectivity.
Best for High-fidelity wired listening directly through a USB-C connectionBest for Frequent flyers and commuters seeking elite noise isolationBest for Immersive movie watching using the newly added Cinema mode
Pros
- Newly integrated support for direct USB-C audio playback
- Upgraded ambient features including improved ActiveSense and a dedicated Cinema mode
- Exceptional physical comfort and premium build materials
- Industry-leading active noise cancellation performance
Cons
- Rechargeable battery is not user-replaceable, which restricts the product's overall lifespan
- Offers only minimal upgrades over the first-generation model
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Bose QuietComfort 45
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Bose QuietComfort 45Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen is 24 g (10%) heavier than Bose QuietComfort 45.
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Bose QuietComfort 45 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen comparison
Bose QuietComfort 45 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen are compared side by side above across every spec in the headphones category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 82/100 for Bose QuietComfort 45 and 82/100 for Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen.
At launch, Bose QuietComfort 45 was the more affordable option ($329) versus Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen ($449). Weigh that against the overall scores (82/100 vs 82/100) and the value-for-money meter above to judge whether the higher-rated model justifies its price for your needs. Current retail prices vary — check the retailer.
It's close — Bose QuietComfort 45 (82/100) and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen (82/100) score almost the same. Pick based on price and the individual specs that matter most to you; the comparison above shows where each one pulls ahead.