Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen): which should you buy?
Sony WH-1000XM6Around £349,launched at £399, price recorded 30 Jul 2026
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)£449at launch, price recorded 30 Jul 2026
The short answer
Choose the Sony for travel and switching between phone and laptop. Choose the Bose if comfort on long journeys matters most and the higher price is worth it to you.
The differences that matter
Sony WH-1000XM6Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
Main useTravel noise reduction and multipoint callsComfort on long noisy journeys
BatterySony rates up to 30 hours with ANCUp to 30 hours; 23 with Immersive Audio
Fit254g; pressure varies by personRoomy, soft cups; comfort comes first
Existing ownerSkip if XM5 still suits youSkip if original Ultra still suits you
Which one fits you?
Choose the Sony WH-1000XM6
You need one pair for phone music and laptop calls.
Choose the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
Other headphones clamp or become uncomfortable on long journeys.
Keep what you have
You are happy with the previous pair and it still works well.
Sony WH-1000XM6Worth considering if quieter journeys and one pair for music and work calls matter to you, as long as you try the fit and your real call setup first.
Around £349,launched at £399, price recorded 30 Jul 2026
Check price on Amazon UKRead the full reviewBose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)The comfort-first choice for noisy journeys and offices, but it costs more than Sony and Sennheiser and its battery does not stand out.
£449at launch, price recorded 30 Jul 2026
Check price on Amazon UKRead the full reviewPrice buttons are affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices are the ones recorded in each review; check the current price before buying.
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