Verdict: Still excellent noise-cancelling headphones, and good value when discounted below the 2nd Gen. The newer model adds longer battery life, USB-C audio and Cinema mode.
Good for
- Flights and commutes: top-tier Bose noise cancelling and comfort
- Spatial listening with Immersive Audio
- Bargain hunters: often discounted since the 2nd Gen launched
Skip it if
- You want the longest battery: up to 24 hours (18 with Immersive Audio)
- You want to listen over a USB-C cable; the 1st Gen’s USB-C port only charges
Key specs
| Battery | Up to 24 hours (up to 18 hours with Immersive Audio) |
|---|---|
| Noise cancelling | Quiet, Aware and Immersion modes |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 |
| USB-C | Charging only |
| Released | 2023 |
How it compares
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen): longer battery, USB-C audio and Cinema mode
- Bose QuietComfort Headphones: cheaper Bose ANC without Immersive Audio
Featured in: Best noise-cancelling over-ear headphones 2026 · Best noise-cancelling headphones
Specs come from the manufacturer’s published specifications (SoundGuys 1st vs 2nd Gen); iTech Level has not tested this product hands-on. How we choose products.
