The Bose QuietComfort Ultra and the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 are two top contenders in the premium headphone market, competing for the attention of both audio enthusiasts and professionals. These flagship headphones showcase each brand’s engineering expertise and dedication to delivering exceptional audio experiences.
Released in October 2023, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones took the mantle from the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 as Bose’s flagship branded headphones. These headphones boast Bose’s most advanced technologies, promising users the epitome of noise cancellation, personalized audio through CustomTune technology, and exceptional voice pickup.
Introduced in September 2020, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 headphones have since captivated the market with their luxurious design and superior sound quality. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these headphones feature custom titanium drivers, adaptive noise cancellation, and an array of intuitive touch controls.
Here’s a comparison table summarizing the key features and differences between the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones and the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95:
| Feature | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | October 2023 | September 2020 |
| Design & Build Quality | Modern, sleek, comfortable design with adjustable headband and protein leather ear cushions. | Elegant, luxurious design with oval memory foam cushions and soft lambskin leather. IP53 dust and waterproof rating. |
| Sound Quality | CustomTune technology, Immersive Audio, and Snapdragon Sound™. | Custom titanium drivers for well-balanced audio. |
| Noise Cancellation | World-class active noise cancellation with three modes. | Adaptive noise cancellation with five levels. |
| Microphones & Voice Assistants | Adaptive mic system. Works with mobile device’s built-in voice assistant. | Six microphones. Works with native voice assistant button. |
| App & Customization | Bose Music app with adjustable EQ and custom noise cancellation modes. | Bang & Olufsen app with Beosonic equalizer and noise cancellation adjustments. |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm’s aptX adaptive codecs. | Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX™ Adaptive, AAC, and SBC codecs. Multi-point pairing. |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 hours (18 hours with Immersive Audio) with fast charging. | Up to 38 hours with ANC on, 50 hours with ANC off. |
| Additional Features | CustomTune technology, Immersive Audio, Wind Block, wearing detection. | IP53 rating, fast pairing, intuitive touch controls. |
| Pricing | Approximately $429 | Approximately $900 |
| Pros | Superior sound, top-tier noise cancellation, Premium, comfortable design, competitive pricing. | Superior sound, top-tier noise cancellation, and premium, comfortable design. |
| Cons | Shorter battery life, limited color options, no water resistance, and multipoint connection | Higher price, limited color options, no auto-pause feature, and lack of support for low latency Bluetooth audio codec. |
The rivalry between Bose and Bang & Olufsen in the premium headphone market has sparked a competition that continually pushes the boundaries of innovation. Both brands have loyal followings, each drawn to the unique blend of craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology offered by their respective flagship models. As we delve deeper into the comparison, we’ll dissect the key features and functionalities of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95, helping you make an informed decision about which headphone aligns with your audio preferences and lifestyle.
Table of Contents
Bose QuietComfort Ultra vs Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95
Design and Build Quality
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones boast an elevated and modern design, featuring sleek lines and luxurious materials. Crafted from a combination of plastic, aluminum, and protein leather, these headphones offer a sophisticated appearance. The adjustable headband and removable protein leather ear cushions enhance comfort, ensuring prolonged usage without discomfort. Available in black and smoke-white, their foldable design adds to their portability, weighing approximately 250g. Bose has combined style with function, creating headphones that are both fashionable and comfortable.
In contrast, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 epitomize elegance with their over-ear design and oval memory foam cushions enveloped in soft lambskin leather. The frame, made of robust aluminum, not only enhances durability but also adds to their aesthetic appeal. The headphones are foldable and come with a durable carrying case, emphasizing their portability. Notably, the Beoplay H95 headphones hold an IP53 dust and waterproof rating, adding a layer of durability, making them suitable for various environments.
Our take: While both headphones are foldable for easy storage and portability, the Beoplay H95 gains an edge with its IP53 dust and waterproof rating, making it more resilient against environmental factors. The Beoplay H95 also offers a more premium design that is plush and comfortable making a bold statement.
Sound Quality
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones deliver an exceptional audio experience with their innovative audio technologies. Bose’s CustomTune technology plays a pivotal role, adapting the sound performance to the unique shape of the user’s ears. This personalization ensures that the audio is always optimized for the best sound quality. Additionally, Bose Immersive Audio technology provides spatialized audio, creating an immersive listening experience. The headphones feature Snapdragon Sound™ Technology Suite, which supports the latest Qualcomm® aptX Adaptive codec for high-quality audio streaming, including lossless and low latency capabilities.
On the other hand, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 pride themselves on their standout sound quality. These headphones feature custom titanium drivers nestled under detachable magnetic earcups. This design delivers well-balanced audio with warm tones, controlled bass frequencies, and clear highs. The custom drivers enable the Beoplay H95 to provide lush lows and punchy mids, making them ideal for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound.
Our take: Both headphone models offer well-balanced, audiophile-grade sound profiles. However, if you are looking for well-tuned, deep bass, pick the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. I think we prefer the sound profile of QC Ultra Headphones -it is rich, well-balanced, and immersive. Beoplay have a balanced sound profile too but their bass is shallow as compared to that of QC Ultra headphones as they try to maintain a sound profile with no distortion.
Noise Cancellation
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are equipped with world-class active noise cancellation. Users can choose from three modes to tailor their experience. The “Quiet” mode offers 100% noise cancellation for an immersive, uninterrupted experience. In “Aware” mode, ambient sound is allowed in, enhancing environmental awareness. The “Immersion” mode combines full noise cancellation with Bose’s Immersive Audio for an unparalleled sound experience. The effectiveness of these modes is achieved through a combination of active and passive noise reduction technologies. Proprietary electronics, utilizing microphones both inside and outside the earcups, instantly sense and counteract ambient sound. Passive noise reduction is achieved through the earcup design and headband clamping force.
Conversely, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 incorporate adaptive noise cancellation, offering five levels of noise cancellation. This adaptability means that as the noise level changes, the headphones automatically adjust to maintain the desired level of quietness. The user can make these adjustments with a simple spin of the earcup wheel, ensuring a seamless experience.
Our take: Both headphones excel in noise cancellation, and whichever model you pick here, you will be happy. However, If it is a must we pick one between the two models, we shall go with the Bose QC Ultra Headphones. Even though the noise cancellation of Beoplay H95 is of premium grade, we give the QC Ultra the credit here. Their noise cancellation is to the point and combined with their high-resolution sound, your listening is the next level.
Microphones, App, and Connectivity
Microphones:
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones feature an adaptive microphone system designed to deliver crystal-clear calls. For voice assistant integration, they work seamlessly with a mobile device’s built-in voice assistant. This makes it easy for users to access their preferred voice assistant, enhancing the overall usability of the headphones.
The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 offer a total of six microphones. Four MEMS microphones, with two dedicated to ANC, ensure that your voice is transmitted clearly during calls. Additionally, Beoplay H95 has a dedicated button for activating the native voice assistant on your device, adding a layer of convenience.
Our take: When it comes to voice clarity, both headphones perform really well even in noisy environments. We tested both in the streets and you could hear the conversation clearly with little ambient noise distraction.
Apps:
Bose provides the Bose Music app, which allows for extensive customization. Users can fine-tune their audio experience with adjustable EQ, custom modes, and quick access to settings right on the headphones. On the other hand, the Bang & Olufsen app offers a Beosonic equalizer and noise cancellation adjustments for personalized sound control.
Our take: It is important to note that the Bose Music app offers more customization and we think Bang & Olufsen should offer more in terms of in-app customization given their price tag.
Bluetooth and Connectivity:
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones feature Bluetooth 5.3 technology with a range of up to 30 feet (9 meters). They support SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm’s aptX adaptive audio codecs, though Bluetooth multipoint connection is planned for a future firmware update. Additionally, they support wired connections through a 3.5mm jack.
The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 come with Bluetooth 5.1 technology, offering a seamless wireless connection. They support aptX™ Adaptive, AAC, and SBC Bluetooth codecs. Beoplay H95 headphones offer multi-point pairing of up to two devices. Additionally, they support wired connections through a 3.5mm jack and USB-C.
Our take: Both headphones offer solid Bluetooth connectivity and codec support, but the Beoplay H95 lacks support for low latency audio codec. However, it edges the QC Ultra Headphones by offering multi-point Bluetooth connection.
Battery Life
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones come with a battery life of up to 24 hours on a single charge, or up to 18 hours with Immersive Audio active. They also offer a fast-charging feature that provides up to 3 hours of playtime from just a 15-minute charge. In the event that the battery is depleted, users can continue listening by connecting the included audio cable. Charging is done through a USB-C cable.
In contrast, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 headphones offer a longer battery life. With ANC activated, they provide up to 38 hours of playback time on a single charge, and up to 50 hours with ANC turned off, thanks to a robust battery. Charging them takes about 2 hours.
Our take: On paper, the battery life of Bang & Olufsen is huge. However, when noise canceling and Bluetooth are on and the music is playing at a manageable volume, the battery runs out pretty quickly. Also, their lack of auto-pause when you take them off and you forget to turn them off, the battery will deplete without you knowing. On battery life, we give them almost equal points, but add some points on top to Bose QC Ultra headphones for incorporating the autopause feature thereby preventing the battery from running out when you wear them off and the advantage of fast charging. When the battery depletes, you can use a wired connection in both models.
Additional Features
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offer several standout features, including CustomTune technology, which personalizes the audio to match your unique ear shape, providing a tailor-made listening experience. They also include Bose’s Immersive Audio, creating an immersive, spatialized sound. Moreover, these headphones feature Snapdragon Sound™ Technology Suite for high-quality audio streaming. The Wind Block function mutes external microphones in windy conditions, reducing noise disturbances. Additionally, they have wearing detection, which pauses playback when you take them off.
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 are notable for their IP53 dust and waterproof rating, making them resilient in various conditions. They also support fast pairing technologies such as Made for iPhone (MFi), Google Fast Pair, and Microsoft Swift Pair for quick and hassle-free connections. The Beoplay H95 headphones incorporate an intuitive touch interface on each earcup, allowing users to control various functions such as playback, volume adjustment, and ANC/transparency features with simple gestures.
Our take: Here, we let you consider what matters most to you. The only huge consideration is the IP53 dust and waterproof rating of the Beoplay H95. Does that matter? That is on you!
Pricing: The Elephant in the Room
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are priced at approximately $429, making them a premium offering in the market.
On the other hand, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 headphones come at a higher price point, with an approximate cost of $900.
Our take: The Beoplay H95 headphones are notably more expensive than the QuietComfort Ultra –double the price of Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. This price difference is substantial and should be considered carefully when making a choice.
Pros and Cons
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones:
Pros:
- Premium, high-resolution sound.
- Immersive Audio for spatialized sound.
- Premium, comfortable design
- Fast-charging capability.
- Competitive pricing.
- Suitable for users who prefer user-friendly controls and a personalized listening experience.
Cons:
- Shorter battery life compared to Beoplay H95 on paper.
- Limited color options.
- Lacks water and dust resistance.
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95:
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with custom titanium drivers.
- Long battery life with and without ANC on paper.
- IP53 dust and waterproof rating.
- Multi-point pairing.
- Fast pairing technologies.
- Luxurious design and build.
- Available in various versions
Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Limited color options.
- No auto-pause feature.
FinalThoughts: Recommendation & Verdict
The choice between the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones and the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 depends on your priorities and what you value most in premium headphones.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are an excellent choice for users who prioritize superior sound quality, industry-leading noise cancellation, modern Bluetooth connectivity, and a competitive price. With its CustomTune technology, immersive audio, and robust app support, the QuietComfort Ultra delivers a compelling audio experience. These headphones are ideal for those who appreciate a balance of top-tier features at a reasonable cost.
The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95, on the other hand, with its premium build quality, is the choice for individuals who seek to make a statement and emphasize luxury. While they do offer exceptional sound quality and strong noise cancellation, it’s worth noting that they come at a higher price tag. These headphones are for those who prioritize aesthetics, craftsmanship, and are willing to invest in a design statement, but not necessarily an outright superiority in audio or noise cancellation over the Bose.
Our verdict, therefore, favors the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones as the more well-rounded choice for the majority of users. These headphones offer an impressive blend of features, excelling in sound quality with deep bass, industry-leading noise cancellation, modern Bluetooth connectivity, extensive audio codec support, and a robust app. Notably, they provide all of this at a competitive price, making them a strong contender in the premium headphone market.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that personal preferences and priorities can lead users to choose otherwise based on their unique needs and values. The Beoplay H95 stands as a symbol of class and luxury with its premium build quality, offering excellent sound and notable noise cancellation, although not quite at the level of Bose. The decision ultimately hinges on whether users prioritize design statement and aesthetics over outright audio or noise cancellation supremacy.
Comments