Introduction

Bose has long been synonymous with comfort and quality in the audio world, and their latest offering, the QuietComfort Ultra II, released in February 2025, continues this tradition with some notable improvements. As a follow-up to the well-received QuietComfort Ultra, this new model aims to perfect the formula of supreme comfort, excellent noise cancellation, and pristine audio quality. Let’s explore how the QuietComfort Ultra II stacks up in the premium headphone market.

Design and Build Quality

The QuietComfort Ultra II maintains the classic Bose aesthetic but with a modern twist. The headband now features a dual-material design with a soft-touch rubberized top and a plush underside that distributes weight evenly. The ear cups have been redesigned with a slightly larger, more oval shape to better encompass a variety of ear sizes. At 240 grams, these headphones are among the lightest in their class, making them ideal for extended wear.

Comfort

True to its name, comfort is where the QuietComfort Ultra II truly shines. Bose has introduced what they call “AdaptiFoam” technology in the ear cushions. This material adjusts to the shape and temperature of your ears, creating a personalized fit that reduces pressure points and heat build-up. Many users report being able to wear these headphones for hours without any discomfort, a significant achievement in the over-ear category.

Audio Performance

Bose has made significant strides in audio quality with the QuietComfort Ultra II. The new custom-designed drivers deliver a more balanced and natural sound signature compared to previous models. Bass is rich and full without being overpowering, midranges are clear and detailed, and highs are crisp without any harshness. The soundstage is impressively wide for closed-back headphones, giving a sense of space to your music.

Noise Cancellation

Building on their strong foundation in noise-cancelling technology, Bose has introduced “QuietComfort+” mode. This new setting uses advanced algorithms to not only cancel out low-frequency rumbles but also to tackle mid and high-frequency noises more effectively. The result is a more comprehensive noise cancellation that adapts to your environment in real-time. A transparency mode allows for clear conversation without removing the headphones, and it sounds more natural than ever.

Smart Features and Connectivity

The QuietComfort Ultra II comes with Bluetooth 5.3 and supports multipoint connection for easy switching between devices. A new feature called “AudioIQ” adjusts the EQ based on your listening volume to maintain balanced sound at any level. The Bose Music app has been updated with a more intuitive interface and now includes personalized sound profiles that can be saved and switched between easily.

Battery Life and Charging

While not class-leading, the 25-hour battery life with ANC on is respectable. Bose has added wireless charging capabilities, allowing you to simply place the headphones on a Qi-compatible charging pad for convenient top-ups. A quick charge feature provides 3 hours of playtime from just 15 minutes of charging.

Voice Assistant and Call Quality

The QuietComfort Ultra II features enhanced microphones for clearer call quality and more accurate voice assistant interactions. The headphones now support wake-word activation for multiple voice assistants, allowing hands-free control without reaching for your phone.

Conclusion

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra II represents a significant step forward in the realm of comfort and usability for premium over-ear headphones. While they may not lead the pack in every single category, the overall package is incredibly compelling. The unmatched comfort, excellent noise cancellation, and improved sound quality make these headphones a top contender for anyone prioritizing long-wearing comfort alongside high-performance audio. Priced at $379, they’re not cheap, but for those who spend hours each day with headphones on, the QuietComfort Ultra II could be the perfect audio companion.