Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st generation)

Exact model and design

This MainBuyer record covers the original Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones introduced in 2023, not the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen released in 2025. That distinction is important when comparing battery figures, USB audio features and current prices. The first-generation Ultra replaced the Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 and combined Bose’s strongest adaptive cancellation with a more travel-friendly folding frame. It is light, softly padded and shaped for long flights, with a compact zip case that is easier to pack than the Sony XM5 or AirPods Max case.

Controls include a multifunction physical button and a capacitive volume strip. The Bose app manages Quiet, Aware and custom modes, equalisation, multipoint pairing and Immersive Audio. The spatial processing can create a wider presentation and offers still or motion-tracked modes, but it is optional rather than essential to the product’s appeal. Some Android phones support Snapdragon Sound and aptX Adaptive features, while other devices use standard Bluetooth codecs. Wired listening is available through the supplied audio connection, but buyers wanting the later model’s expanded USB-C audio and longer endurance should verify the generation carefully.

Cancellation, comfort and sound

The original QuietComfort Ultra remains one of the best choices for reducing low-frequency travel noise and the uneven mixture of voices, machinery and ventilation found in airports or shared offices. Bose’s processing is aggressive without producing as much pressure sensation as some earlier ANC systems. Aware mode is clear and CustomTune adapts sound and cancellation after the headphones are placed on the head. The second-generation model improves the formula, but the first generation remains highly competitive when discounted. Wind can still challenge external microphones, and cancellation quality depends on maintaining a good seal around glasses and hair.

Bose uses a lively, consumer-friendly tuning with solid bass, clear vocals and smooth treble. It is forgiving of compressed streaming and enjoyable for films, pop and podcasts. Sennheiser Momentum 4 and Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 offer more texture and stereo depth for critical music listening, while Sony provides more extensive equalisation. Immersive Audio can be engaging with simple arrangements or films but may make complex recordings sound less precise. Call quality is good indoors and acceptable outdoors, although Sony’s newer XM6 is usually more effective at separating speech in difficult noise.

Battery and ownership

Bose rates the first-generation model for approximately 24 hours with standard noise cancellation and around 18 hours when Immersive Audio is active. This is adequate for most trips but clearly behind Sony, JBL, Bowers & Wilkins and especially Sennheiser. Short-charge support helps, and the headphones can fold into their case between uses. Multipoint pairing is convenient, though some advanced codec modes and multipoint behaviour can conflict depending on the source device. Firmware and app updates should be applied before judging connection stability.

Long-session comfort is the product’s strongest ownership quality. The low weight, soft pads and moderate clamp suit flights and office work, though users with large ears should check cup depth. The glossy control surfaces show marks, and the capacitive volume strip is less predictable than a wheel or buttons. Replacement pads are available, but the battery is not user replaceable. Because the second generation is now current, the original should only be purchased at a meaningful saving and from a listing that explicitly identifies the model rather than using recycled marketing images.

Verdict

The first-generation Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones remain excellent for travellers who value comfort and powerful noise cancellation above battery records or audiophile sound. They fold compactly, create a calm listening environment and are easy to wear for hours. Their 24-hour endurance, touch volume strip and superseded status reduce their value at full price. Buy them when clearly discounted below the 2nd Gen and current Sony XM6. Choose the newer Bose for longer ownership and updated connectivity, Sennheiser for maximum battery, Sony for the broadest all-round feature set, or Px7 S3 when music quality is the main priority.