REVIEW: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Bose has long been known for its excellent noise-cancelling technology, and its latest release, the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, is no exception. The new model promises to build on the success of the QuietComfort Earbuds II, offering familiar comfort and sound quality while introducing a new audio experience called Immersive Audio.

While the design has remained largely unchanged, there are a few notable improvements under the hood that make these earbuds worthy of attention. So, do the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds deliver a meaningful upgrade for existing Bose users, or are they just another pair of premium wireless earphones? Let’s take a deeper look.

Design & Build Quality

The design of the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds is very similar to the previous model, with one key enhancement: a sleek metallic finish that adds a touch of luxury to the overall look. The ear hooks, which are crucial for a secure fit, have been improved with a smarter interlocking design, making them more stable and reliable than before.

They stay firmly in place during typical activities, such as commuting and light exercise, though they are not specifically marketed as sports earbuds and may not stay put during more intense workouts.

Comfort is another highlight of the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. They are lightweight and don’t feel too bulky, even during extended listening sessions, unlike some other noise-cancelling earbuds that can feel heavy. The earbuds are also rated IPX4, making them resistant to water splashes and sweat, which is perfect for daily use or light exercise. The touch controls remain intuitive, allowing you to control volume, skip tracks, and pause music with ease, all while maintaining a clean, minimalist design.

Software Features

Bose’s new Immersive Audio technology is the standout software feature of the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. This is an updated version of spatial audio designed to create a more expansive soundstage that mimics the experience of hearing music in a room rather than just from left and right channels. It does a good job of providing a more immersive listening experience, especially in terms of enhancing the depth and presence of the music without altering its core characteristics.

There are two main listening modes available via the Bose Music app: ‘Still’ mode, which keeps the audio experience steady, and ‘Motion’ mode, which ensures the sound remains centred even when you’re on the move. There is also an ‘Off’ option for when you want to conserve battery life. While these modes do offer flexibility, they don’t feel groundbreaking, and existing users of Bose’s previous models may not feel the need to upgrade just for this feature.

Another improvement is in call quality. Thanks to dynamic mic mixing and adaptive noise filters, the earbuds pick up the least noisy microphone and focus on delivering clearer voice calls. This results in noticeably improved call clarity over the previous generation, though it’s not a massive leap forward.

Sound & ANC Quality

When it comes to sound, Bose continues to deliver a premium experience. The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds feature exceptional active noise cancelling (ANC), which remains one of the best in-ear noise-cancelling technologies available. Whether you’re on a busy train or walking down a bustling street, the ANC effectively blocks out external noise, allowing you to focus on your music without distractions.

The new Immersive Audio feature, although not as revolutionary as some might expect, complements the ANC well. The result is a balanced experience, with audio that feels enveloping and dynamic without distorting the original sound. The bass is punchy and controlled, providing a solid foundation for the music, while the treble offers clear detail without being overly sharp. The midrange is rich, allowing vocals to come through clearly and naturally, and overall, the sound is cohesive and well-rounded.

Battery Life

The battery life of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds is fairly standard for premium wireless earbuds. With active noise cancelling enabled and Immersive Audio off, you can expect up to six hours of playback. When both features are active, this drops to around four hours. The included charging case offers an additional 18 to 24 hours of use, which is more than enough for a full day of listening.

The earbuds automatically turn off when not in use, helping to preserve battery life, and the case itself charges in about three hours. If you’re in a rush, a quick 20-minute charge can give you up to two hours of playback. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a stable connection, though there were occasional issues where one of the earbuds didn’t connect right away. Replacing the earbuds back into the case usually solved the issue.

Conclusion

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are a strong contender in the premium true wireless earbuds market. While the design hasn’t changed dramatically, the introduction of Immersive Audio and the continued excellence in ANC make them a solid option for those who prioritise sound quality and noise isolation. The improvements in call quality and the sleek new design elements are nice additions, but the overall experience remains very much in line with what Bose users expect from the brand.

For those with the previous-generation QuietComfort Earbuds II, the upgrades might not feel significant enough to warrant an immediate upgrade, unless you are particularly keen on the new audio features. However, for new buyers or those seeking top-tier ANC and immersive sound in a compact, comfortable design, the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds offer an excellent all-around package.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Pricing & Availability

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are available now in a variety of colours including Black, White Smoke, Lunar Blue and a special ‘Diamond 60th Edition’, with an RRP of €349.95, directly from Bose’s online store of retailers such as Currys.