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Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Christian Thomas — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 17:02:57 +0000

Now that Samsung has entered the fray of top-tier earbuds, it’s worth taking a look to see how the competition stacks up. So in the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds cage match, who comes out the victor? Well, it’s complicated.

How has this article been updated?

June 5, 2025: We added a section on the new Bose QuietComfort Earbuds.

What’s it like to use the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro compared to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

Both the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are top-tier earbuds from some of the most popular audio companies out there. Both products offer the latest features and best performance of each companies’ product lines. Picking one over the other isn’t so much an exercise in figuring out which product is the “best,” but which one suits your needs more.

Though it’s a little on the chunky side, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds’ charging case should still be able to fit into your pocket without much fuss.

While the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro look a lot like the Apple AirPods Pro with a similar style of ear tips and lollipop-style design, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds use a shorter protrusion to serve as its control interface, and a small fin to hold the earbud in your ear. Though there are design advantages to each style, the former earbuds are a little more comfortable than the latter, and the latter are much easier to fit than the former.

Exercise enthusiasts will probably be better suited by the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro, as those earbuds boast an IP57 ingress protection rating. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds only offer an IPX4 rating — more than enough for workouts — but it does mean that there’s an increased likelihood that a splash or dunk would be a bit too much to handle. For activities that would put you in the presence of a lot of water, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are more likely to survive.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro definitely look the part of flagship earbuds.

Both charging cases are small enough to fit in just about any pocket, and both charging cases are more than adequate for the job. However, only the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro’s case can be topped up wirelessly, while the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds only support traditional charging. Though it’s not a huge deal unless you have a wireless charging pad, it is undeniably convenient.

How do you control the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

Both the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have touch controls, though the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro use a lollipop stem and not a touchplate. The main difference here is that while you control the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds with taps and swipes, you control the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro with pinches and swipes.

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro controls:

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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds controls:

[table id=364 /]

Should you use the apps of either Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

In order to make the most of the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, you’re going to need to use the apps of each to get the most out of them. While you can technically scrape by without tinkering, in the case of the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro we think you’ll want to install the Samsung Wearable app in order to unlock the equalizer, EQ presets, and AI features. Said AI features are pretty useful, even if it’s a bit limited currently. For example, the real-time translation tool is a creative tool that allows you to communicate with someone who doesn’t speak your language, and the results are pretty decent.

The Samsung Wearable app unlocks more than just an EQ.

Bose’s Music App is required for timely updates, and that means it’s definitely a good idea to install every now and again. The app itself isn’t super useful outside of that, as the EQ presets and the three-band equalizer aren’t all that incredible. However, you will need it if you’d like to use Bose’s version of spatial audio: Immersive sound. I wasn’t a fan because it simply made the audio sound like you were listening to a single speaker in front of you, and then used the head tracking to place that in 3D space. But if you are hoping for that sort of thing, Bose’s implementation nails that illusion.

How do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds connect?

The pairing button lives next to the USB-C port.

Though the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are able to make use of SBC, AAC, and Samsung Seamless Codecs, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds use a much more cross-platform friendly aptX Adaptive (including aptX Lossless). If you have a Samsung phone, this likely will not matter to you, but if you have a current Android phone from any other manufacturer, you’re probably going to want to pick up the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds if your device uses a Qualcomm chip that supports Snapdragon Sound.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds’ pairing button is located at the back of the charging case.

However, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are the only model between the two that supports Auracast — if you’re angling to use that feature in the future. Though it’s not a big fixture of Bluetooth headphones just yet, it does enable some useful features like allowing venues to pipe their audio feeds directly to your earbuds, or provide a translated audio stream that only you can hear.

Is battery life better on the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

According to our standardized tests, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro last 4 hours and 31 minutes, while the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds can go for 6 hours and 11 minutes. This mainly matters on long trips, or if you plan to listen to music for many hours in one go. If you’re looking for a commuter buddy, you’re going to be placing these back in the charging case anyways after an hour or so — so the battery life isn’t a huge deal. Still, if you’re flying often, or taking extended bus trips: you might want to pick up the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds.

I will point out too, that more charging cycles can place additional strain on tiny batteries. So if you’re hoping to maximize the operational life of your earbuds, you might want to pick the ones with the better single-charge duration. But given that this is on the span of a couple years, it’s not an immediate concern.

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds block noise better?

Though there isn’t a clear winner in some of the other comparisons, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are a stellar performer when it comes to ANC, while the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are merely “pretty good.” There’s no bad option here, but there is a clear winner. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have excellent isolation and ANC.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro offer fair ANC performance, though it’s not going to make you forget the other top-tier options out there. There’s an argument to be made that this is a positive for those of you who go running or biking and need to be able to hear louder sounds, but if you’re around a bunch of engine noise: you might hear it.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, on the other hand, have some of the best ANC we’ve seen come through our labs, and should offer you a pretty noise-free listening experience. It’s not perfect, but it’s the choice you want to make for a flight or higher-noise environment.

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro sound better than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

Though the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are among the top of their class, there is a clear winner when it comes to sound quality. Both are good, but the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro offers a more crowd-pleasing sound than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. To illustrate this point, we took each through our labs and collected the following data to share with you.

As we can gather from the chart above, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro’s sound is characterized by strong bass, a slight dip at 400Hz, and some highs emphasis. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, on the other hand, have slightly stronger sub-bass, and much more high-mids emphasis. Though neither set of earbuds is exactly what we look for, both exhibit pretty typical features for consumer earphones.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro is a clear winner over Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds.

That said, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have distortion that you may or may not be able to hear. Because of this, along with a somewhat lower Immersiveness score, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds fall behind the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro in terms of perceived sound quality.

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have a better microphone?

Both the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have excellent microphones, but the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds is better at rejecting noise. You can hear for yourself in the selected clips below.

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Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds: Price and availability

Because both Bose and Samsung are among the most popular manufacturers of earbuds on the planet, it shouldn’t surprise anyone that you can find both the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds on the websites of just about any big-box retailer out there. However, a recent move by Samsung to re-check much of its stock after manufacturing issues became apparent means that the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro won’t be available until the end of August at the soonest.

Though the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro comes in at $249.99, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds ($299.99) have been on the market for quite a while, so you might be able to find them on sale at the usual times of year. The prices being this close means that at any given time one might not be more expensive than the other, and it’s important to identify these products as competitors in price in addition to market status.

Should you get the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

Until the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro returns to the marketplace, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are your best bet. However, there’s reason enough to wait for the Samsung earbuds, especially when it comes to sound quality and features. Sure, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are nothing to sniff at, and those earbuds may be a great fit for a lot of people, but they do have their shortcomings.

Though they look a bit like a Cybertruck and AirPods had a baby, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are 2024 tech chic.

However, frequent international travelers shouldn’t think twice: the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are the better fit with far superior ANC and battery life. These are the main advantages the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have over the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro.

What about the new Bose QuietComfort Earbuds?

The new Bose QuietComfort Earbuds come in a flashy purple color option.

In 2024, Bose unveiled the new QuietComfort Earbuds (). These serve as the more affordable sibling to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. The case is a bit larger, but the earbuds themselves are smaller than their Ultra counterpart. You can also get the standard QuietComfort Earbuds in more flashy color options.

When it comes to features and performance, the new Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are surprisingly similar to the more expensive QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. As long as you don’t care about the latest and greatest Bluetooth connectivity or features like immersive audio, you can go with the cheaper option.

Frequently asked questions

Are the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra waterproof?

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are waterproof with an IP57 rating, whereas the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are merely water-resistant with an IPX4 rating.

Are the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra good for running?

Both are fine for running, as they have a secure fit and sweat resistance.

Can the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra connect to multiple devices?

Yes.

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra come with extra ear tips?

Yes.

Are the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra noise canceling?

Yes.

Are the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra compatible with iPhone?

Yes, although the advanced features of the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro will not work without a Samsung device.

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Apple AirPods Pro 2: Battle of the stem design

Chase Bernath — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 16:38:31 +0000

AirPods and Galaxy Buds are both tightly woven into their respective Apple and Samsung ecosystems, but which brand does it better? That’s what we’re finding out in this Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Apple AirPods Pro 2 comparison.

How has this article been updated?

June 5, 2025: Updated AirPods Pro 2 naming convention, added new AirPods hearing aid features, and removed statement on Galaxy Buds3 Pro shipping pause.

What’s it like to use the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro compared to the Apple AirPods Pro 2?

Samsung has clearly taken some design inspiration from Apple.

We’re not the first to say it and we won’t be the last – Samsung copied the design of Apple’s earbuds. The Galaxy Buds3 Pro take a lot of design inspiration from the AirPods Pro 2, while the regular Galaxy Buds3 take some cues from the regular Apple AirPods (3rd generation). Imitation is the greatest form of flattery, and we aren’t complaining about the stem design of the Galaxy Buds3 Pro, as it is a tried and true form factor. That said, Samsung didn’t quite master the design, given the fact they had to suspend shipments of the Galaxy Buds3 Pro due to quality control issues.

Assuming you don’t get a defunct unit, you will likely enjoy the design of the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro. We found the earbuds are comfortable to wear, and stay in place well. Similarly, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 are very comfortable. Each Galaxy Buds3 Pro earbud weighs 5.4g, while each AirPods Pro earbud weighs 5.3g.

The Galaxy Buds3 Pro take a lot of design inspiration from the AirPods Pro 2

When it comes to durability, the Galaxy Buds3 Pro have the edge. They are IP57 dust and water-resistant, superior to the IPX4 rating of the Apple AirPods Pro 2. That said, the AirPods are still sweat-resistant enough to take with you to the gym.

Samsung took another page out of Apple’s playbook when it comes to controls. Just like with the AirPods, you can pinch the stem of the Galaxy Buds3 Pro to control music playback. You can also use voice controls for both the Samsung and Apple earbuds.

How do you control the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro?

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How do you control the Apple AirPods Pro 2?

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Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Apple AirPods Pro 2 have more features?

The Samsung Wearable app enables a 9-band EQ, along with presets.

As expected, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro work best with Samsung phones, whereas the Apple AirPods Pro 2 work best with iPhones. Both have a very comprehensive set of features, as long as you stay within the ecosystem.

You can adjust basic functions for the Galaxy Buds3 Pro right from within the Settings on your Galaxy device. With the addition of the Samsung Wearable app, you can access voice commands, adaptive noise control, AI translation services, 360 audio, Find My, and more. The app also provides an equalizer to adjust the sound of the earbuds, a feature you won’t find native to the AirPods.

The iPhone Settings app and Control Center are where you go to customize the listening experience.

There’s no separate app for the AirPods, as Apple bakes all the software functionality into the operating system. In the Settings app you’ll find an ear tip fit test, listening mode adjustments, and control customization. Open the Control Center on your device and you can access features like audio sharing and spatial audio. To find a lost AirPods earbud, head to the Find My app on your Apple device.

In September 2024, Apple announced new Hearing Health features for the AirPods Pro 2 that enable them to function as a hearing aid. If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, such as age-related hearing loss, the AirPods Pro 2 offer a lot of value.

How do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 connect?

The earbuds share a very similar form factor.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro have Bluetooth 5.4 with support for SBC, AAC, Samsung Scalable Codec, and Samsung Seamless Codec. While you can pair the Galaxy Buds3 Pro to any device, you’ll need a relatively new Samsung device to take full advantage of the earbuds connectivity tech that is capable of streaming at up to 24bit/96kHz.

Similarly, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 work best with Apple devices. They have Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC and AAC, the latter of which works well with iOS devices. While Android supports AAC, its performance is historically variable on Android. The H2 chip inside the earbuds supports what Apple calls “high bandwidth connectivity,” suggesting that the sound quality is getting closer to lossless but isn’t quite there yet.

Is battery life better on the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Apple AirPods Pro 2?

The charging port is located on the bottom of both.

According to our battery testing, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro last 4 hours and 31 minutes, whereas the Apple AirPods Pro 2 last 5 hours and 43 minutes. We conduct our testing with noise canceling turned on, so you may experience longer battery life in different listening modes and with different volume levels. The shorter battery life of the Samsung earbuds means more frequent charge cycles, which shortens the life expectancy of the product. The case of both earbuds provides a few extra full charges.

You can charge the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro wirelessly or with a USB-C cable. The Apple AirPods Pro 2 support both of those charging methods, as well as the proprietary MagSafe and Apple Watch chargers.

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Apple AirPods Pro 2 block noise better?

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 have active noise canceling to block out external noise. According to our testing, both do a good job blocking out noise, but the AirPods have a slight edge. The ANC of the Galaxy Buds3 Pro struggles to block out low-frequency noise below 100Hz, as well as mid-range noise around 500Hz. This is disappointing considering how good the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro were at blocking out noise.

If you are interested in staying aware of your surroundings, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 each have a very capable transparency mode. Both sets of earbuds are also intelligent enough to listen for sounds like a passing siren.

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro sound better than the Apple AirPods Pro 2?

Most people will enjoy the sound quality of both the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2. Out of the box, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro have a strong emphasis on bass, but you can tame this down with the Clear EQ preset. While the Apple AirPods Pro 2 don’t have a custom equalizer, they do have Adaptive EQ, which tailors the sound quality to the shape of your ears. This makes the AirPods the ideal choice for people who don’t want to tinker.

Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS)

The chart below shows how the sound of the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 was assessed by the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD acoustics.

Both earbuds are projected to be crowd pleasers.

On a scale from 1-5, both earbuds score a 4.8 Overall. This is a very high score, and it means that most people will enjoy the default sound quality of the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and the Apple AirPods Pro 2.

What do the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores mean?

Timbre (MOS-T) represents how faithfully the headphones reproduce the frequency spectrum and temporal resolution (timing information).
Distortion (MOS-D) represents non-linearities and added noise: higher scores mean cleaner reproduction.
Immersiveness (MOS-I) represents perceived source width and positioning: how well virtual sound sources are defined in three-dimensional space.

Objective Measurements

As you can see in the chart above, the default frequency response of the Galaxy Buds3 Pro emphasizes low and high frequencies more than the AirPods Pro 2. The AirPods have a more neutral sound that closely follows our headphone preference curve. That said, you can easily customize the sound quality of the Samsung earbuds using the equalizer in the Samsung Wearables app.

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Apple AirPods Pro 2 have a better microphone?

You can use both the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 for taking calls on the go. In quiet environments, both earbuds are equipped with microphones that reproduce the voice clearly. In our simulated noise tests, we found the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro do not reject background noise as well as the AirPods Pro 2. That said, performance will vary depending on what device you are connected to and what app you are using.

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Samsung-galaxy-buds3-pro-ideal.mp3

Apple AirPods Pro 2 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Apple-AirPods-Pro-G2-2023-_Ideal-microphone-sample.mp3

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro microphone demo (Office conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Samsung-galaxy-buds3-pro-office.mp3

Apple AirPods Pro 2 microphone demo (Office conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Apple-AirPods-Pro-G2-2023-_Office-microphone-sample.mp3

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Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Apple AirPods Pro 2: Price and availability

Similar design, similar price.

In yet a final statement of imitation, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro have the same starting price of the Apple AirPods Pro 2 of $250 USD. That said, since it has been a while since Apple updated it’s AirPods lineup, you are more likely to find the AirPods Pro 2 on sale than the Galaxy Buds3 Pro.

As of writing, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are on hold due to quality control issues, with the earbuds now set to hit shelves in late 2024.

Should you get the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Apple AirPods Pro 2?

I’m sure you saw this coming, but your decision here should come down to the logo on the back of your smartphone. If you are tied to the Apple ecosystem, buy the AirPods Pro 2. If you are allegiant to Samsung, the Galaxy Buds3 Pro are a good option. If you have neither a Samsung or Apple smartphone, you should look at alternative options.

In terms of pure performance, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 are very evenly matched. No matter which earbuds you go with, you will enjoy great sound quality, good noise canceling, and a plethora of intelligent features.

Frequently asked questions

Are the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 waterproof?

With an IP57 rating, you can submerge the Galaxy Buds3 Pro in water for up to 30 minutes. On the other hand, the AirPods Pro 2 only have an IPX4 rating for mild water resistance against splashes of water.

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 work with iPhone and Android?

You can use the Galaxy Buds3 Pro and AirPods Pro 2 cross-platform, but we recommend you stay within their respective ecosystem to enjoy all of the features.

Can the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 charge wirelessly?

Yes, both the Galaxy Buds3 Pro and AirPods Pro 2 support wireless charging.

Are the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 noise canceling?

Yes, both the Galaxy Buds3 Pro and AirPods Pro 2 have active noise canceling.

Can the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 connect to multiple devices?

With the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro, you can connect to multiple Samsung devices at the same time. Similarly, with the AirPods Pro 2, you can only connect to multiple Apple devices at the same time.

Skullcandy Method 360 ANC vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds: Can budget beat Bose at its own game?

Adam Birney — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 11:15:04 +0000

Bose is known for setting the benchmark in active noise canceling, while Skullcandy has long been the go-to for budget-friendly, bass-heavy earbuds. But when Skullcandy partnered with Bose for its Method 360 ANC earbuds, it promised “premium sound for the people.” So, how do these affordable earbuds compare to Bose’s top-tier QuietComfort Ultra? I tested both to find out.

How has this article been updated?

This article was originally published on June 4, 2025, and this is the first version. Updates will follow.

What’s it like to use the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC compared to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

The Skullcandy Method 360 ANC earbuds feel like déjà vu because they’re nearly identical to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds in shape, size, and fit. That’s by design—Skullcandy essentially licensed the Bose blueprint, using the same drivers, acoustic tuning, and the exact ear tips and fins from the QC Ultra. The result is a fit that’s just as stable and secure as Bose’s flagship model. I had no trouble finding the right size combo, and once in place, the earbuds stayed put through workouts, commutes, and couch sessions alike. Even better, the touch controls respond reliably without disrupting the seal—something many cheaper earbuds struggle with.

The Method 360 ANC breaks away from the QC Ultra in materials and, most noticeably, the charging case. Bose opts for a more traditional, no-nonsense case with rounded edges and a matte finish. It feels solid, slides easily into a jeans pocket, and includes thoughtful features like LED indicators for both the earbuds and the case’s charge level. You get a physical pairing button on the back and a simple clamshell case that opens from the top.

The earbuds look identical, but the cases couldn’t be more different.

Skullcandy, on the other hand, trades polish for personality. The Method 360 ANC case features a slider mechanism and integrated carabiner clip, clearly aimed at users who like to clip their gear to a backpack or belt loop. It’s eye-catching and adventurous—but not without drawbacks. The sliding mechanism lacks a firm locking system and started to loosen up after just a week of use. That’s a problem if you’re active, because any accidental bump could pop the case open and send your earbuds flying. Adding to the quirk factor, each earbud slots into a different side of the case upside down. This makes orientation obvious when the case is clipped to a bag, but confusing when it’s just sitting on a desk. It’s a bold design that sacrifices everyday practicality for style points.

How do you control Skullcandy Method 360 ANC?

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How do you control Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

[table id=364 /]

Do the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have more features?

The capacitive touchpads of the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds allow you to control your earphones without worrying about a compromised seal.

Skullcandy offers an impressive feature set at its price, most notably the customizable 5-band EQ, adjustable ANC, and transparency levels, and Bluetooth multipoint support. The app itself is literally the reskinned Bose QuietComfort app, which feels like a bit of a shortcut but works well nonetheless. Bonus features like Spotify Tap and Studio Mode add to the appeal.

Bose’s features skew more toward future-proofing and sound quality. Snapdragon Sound with aptX Lossless gives it a significant edge for Hi-Res streaming, and the immersive audio mode, while not perfect, offers a spatial listening effect. However, the EQ options are limited to a 3-band setup, and I didn’t find it as effective at taming the overly emphasized bass and treble as Skullcandy’s app.

How do the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds connect?

Both earbuds use Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring stable and modern wireless connections. The Skullcandy Method 360 ANC supports only AAC and SBC codecs, while Bose includes aptX Adaptive for higher resolution audio. Both earbuds also support Multipoint, which is a big win for multitaskers.

Pairing is straightforward for both. Skullcandy’s pairing process is manual but simple, while Bose benefits from Fast Pair for Android users. That extra convenience might seem minor but adds to the QC Ultra’s overall polish.

Is battery life better on the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC or the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

With the charging case, you can get up to 40 hours of playback out of the Method 360 ANC.

Skullcandy wins here. In our testing, the Method 360 ANC lasted 7 hours and 43 minutes with ANC on, extending to 11 hours with ANC off. Add the case, and you’re looking at 32–40 hours total. It also supports Rapid Charge, which gives 2 hours of use in just 10 minutes.

Bose’s battery life falls short in comparison. The QC Ultra Earbuds clocked in at just 6 hours and 11 minutes per charge. While that’s enough for a full workday, it doesn’t match Skullcandy’s endurance. Still, Bose compensates with a high-speed charging case that reliably tops off the buds between uses.

Do the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds block noise better?

Regarding overall noise reduction, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds clearly outperform the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC across nearly the entire frequency range. On this chart, every 10dB increase represents a halving of sound power, so even small differences translate to big shifts in real-world loudness. The QC Ultra delivers exceptional total attenuation—ANC plus passive isolation—cutting up to 34dB below 400Hz and peaking near 39dB above 1kHz. That’s around an 87–94% reduction in perceived volume, which makes them ideal for flights, offices, and busy commutes.

Skullcandy holds its own for the price, reaching around 28dB of attenuation at 80Hz and up to 35dB above 1kHz. That’s still strong—roughly an 85–90% reduction at peak—but not quite flagship-level. It’s most effective against higher-pitched sounds like keyboard clatter and voices. However, the Method 360 ANC doesn’t do as well with deeper rumbles, which means you’ll still hear engine noise and HVAC hum. Thanks to Bose-designed tips, its passive isolation is decent, but the lack of strong low-end attenuation without ANC means you’ll want noise canceling enabled in loud environments. Bose is still the best if you want the best all-around silence.

Do the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC sound better than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

The answer depends on your taste. If you like bass—big, booming, sometimes overwhelming bass—Skullcandy delivers. Their sound is fun and powerful, especially for hip-hop or EDM. But the aggressive low-end muddies vocals and midrange instruments unless you tweak the EQ.

Bose also emphasizes bass and treble but does so with slightly more finesse. The midrange is still recessed, and cymbals can be shrill at high volumes, but the overall sound is cleaner out of the box. Still, the in-app EQ lacks the precision to fully correct these imbalances.

Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS)

Skullcandy scores a remarkable 4.9 overall in MDAQS testing. Its Timbre and Immersiveness are equally high, though its Distortion rating of 3.1 hints at limitations in clarity. Bose scores a bit lower overall at 4.4, with a cleaner 2.2 Distortion rating but lower Immersiveness (3.9). If you want spacious sound and engaging Timbre, Skullcandy surprisingly pulls ahead. For technical cleanliness, Bose wins.

What do the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores mean?

Timbre (MOS-T) represents how faithfully the headphones reproduce the frequency spectrum and temporal resolution (timing information).
Distortion (MOS-D) represents non-linearities and added noise: higher scores mean cleaner reproduction.
Immersiveness (MOS-I) represents perceived source width and positioning: how well virtual sound sources are defined in three-dimensional space.

Objective Measurements

Skullcandy pushes bass and treble harder than Bose, resulting in a V-shaped curve that emphasizes lows and highs more than our house curve prefers. The QC Ultra has a similar shape but with more restrained boosts, especially in the sub-bass and bass regions. Both dip slightly in the mids, which can make vocals sound recessed. Neither tuning is ideal for critical listening, but Skullcandy’s sound is a bit more intense and exaggerated than Bose’s.

Do the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have a better microphone?

Takign calls is servicable but your voice won’t sound natural.

Skullcandy’s mic sounds noticeably processed, but gets the job done. It keeps speech intelligible and handles background noise well, though windy environments remain a challenge. It’s clear enough for calls but lacks richness and can sound thin.

Bose provides more natural-sounding audio but still falls into the “good enough” category for calls. Its microphones work better in noisy environments and manage a smoother tone overall. In direct comparison, I’d say Bose wins on clarity and noise handling, but neither is a standout.

Skullcandy Method 360 ANC microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Skullcandy-Method-360-Bose-Ideal.mp3

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Bose-Quietcomfort-Ultra-Earbuds_Ideal-microphone-sample.mp3

Skullcandy Method 360 ANC microphone demo (Street conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Skullcandy-Method-360-Bose-Street.mp3

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Street conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Bose-Quietcomfort-Ultra-Earbuds_Street-microphone-sample.mp3

Skullcandy Method 360 ANC vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds: Price and availability

The Method 360 ANC launched at $129.99 but is often available for $99. That’s exceptional value considering the feature set and Bose involvement. It’s a clear standout in the sub-$150 bracket.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds retail for $299.99. You’re paying for better materials, more refined sound, and best-in-class ANC—but at three times the price. Sales may occasionally bring that down, but it’s still a premium product.

Should you get the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC or the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

The Method 360 ANC are basically the budget version of the Bose QC Ultra earbuds.

If budget is your biggest concern, the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC punches well above its weight. You get solid ANC, tons of features, a customizable app, and decent comfort, all with Bose hardware under the hood. It’s the best value in Skullcandy’s lineup right now.

However, if you demand the best ANC, more balanced sound (with some EQ help), and longer-term durability, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds remain the top choice. Just know that you’re paying a significant premium for modest gains. For most casual listeners, Skullcandy’s offering will be more than enough—and a lot more wallet-friendly.

JBL Clip 5 vs. JBL Go 4: Which portable Bluetooth speaker should you buy?

Dave Carr — Fri, 30 May 2025 14:58:36 +0000

Battle of the ultra-portable! Over the years, you’ve probably seen a JBL Clip or Go series speaker hanging off someone’s backpack somewhere. When JBL launched the Clip 5 and Go 4 last year, we discovered significant upgrades to the latest iteration of these outdoor-ready, budget-friendly speakers. In this JBL Clip 5 vs. JBL Go 4 article, we’ll discuss the differences to help you choose the right on-the-go speaker for your next adventure.

How has this article been updated?

On May 30th, 2025, to add the JBL Flip 7 and Soundcore Select 4 Go to the list of alternatives.

What’s it like to use the JBL Clip 5 compared to the JBL Go 4?

Both the Clip 5 and Go 4 are ultra-portable, but the Go 4 takes the edge when it comes to size and weight. It’s genuinely small enough to slide into your back pocket, and at under half a pound, it disappears in a daypack. That said, the Clip 5 isn’t exactly bulky either. Its built-in carabiner makes it easy to clip onto a backpack or belt loop, and while you’ll feel the extra heft compared to the Go 4, the added versatility makes it a fair trade.

Both speakers keep the IP67 rating, so they’re fully dustproof and can handle a dunk in water without issue. JBL wraps each one in a tough mix of fabric and rubberized silicone that holds up well to rough use. These are built for the road; you won’t need to baby them. Like the last generation, both models fire sound upward when laid flat, and JBL added more grip and padding on the back to keep them steady on a table or rock, which actually works better than you might expect.

How do you control the JBL Clip 5 and JBL Go 4?

Both the Clip 5 and Go 4 have very similar control layouts. Your raised playback controls are along the top in typical JBL fashion. On the left side of both units, you’ll find a recessed mini-control strip containing your power, Bluetooth, and Auracast buttons. Auracast allows you to connect to other Auracast-supported JBL speakers, which you can configure via the JBL Portable app.

Should you use the JBL Portable app with the JBL Clip 5 or JBL Go 4?

Yes, you should absolutely use the JBL Portable app with the new Clip 5 and Go 4. App support is the most significant upgrade to these refreshed speakers since the Clip 4 and Go 3 had no software support. The JBL Portable app gives you access to several EQ options, including a 5-band customizable EQ. You can also pair an identical speaker for stereo performance or, as mentioned, link up other Auracast-supported JBL speakers.

Another huge plus of the companion app is access to future firmware updates.

How do the JBL Clip 5 and JBL Go 4 connect?

Both the Clip 5 and Go 4 connect to your device via Bluetooth 5.3 and are SBC only, but support multipoint connection if you and a friend want to take turns playing DJ.

Is battery life better on the JBL Clip 5 or JBL Go 4?

The Clip 5 wins this round, advertising 12 hours of playback off a single charge, while the Go 4 offers 10 hours. Of course, your mileage will vary depending on a few factors, such as your EQ settings and overall volume usage.

Regarding battery life, just a heads up about the new “PlaytimeBoost” feature in the JBL app. While it’s meant to increase your playback time by a few hours, it’s worth noting that it only accomplishes this by bypassing your current EQ settings and reducing all low-end frequencies to save battery life. This results in a sound that’s very heavy on the treble, similar to a Podcast or Voice Enhancer EQ setting—not ideal.

Does the JBL Clip 5 sound better than the JBL Go 4?

Getting down to the brass tacks, while the Clip 5 and Go 4 share the same 1.75″ driver, the Clip 5 is simply the better-sounding speaker, thanks to its 7W output compared to the 4.2W provided by the Go 4. The difference in bass response is quite noticeable.

The Go 4 has a fairly mid-heavy stock sound. This tends to change the sounds of instruments like a snare drum and pushes the vocals to the front of the mix when listening to rock music. With the new 5-band EQ, you can certainly dial back the mid-range and squeeze a bit more low end out of the Go 4, but if you’re more keen on the steady thump of your favorite EDM track while out and about, the Go 4 can’t compete with the bass response from the Clip 5.

That being said, it’s important to remember that the main priority of the Clip 5 and Go 4 is portability. While the Clip 5 can offer more bass response, your music will start to sound a little crowded if you plan on cranking either of these speakers up to 10. You don’t get any left-right separation, and you might miss out on some of the production details from your favorite instrumental track, but this is just one of the many sonic trade-offs that come with smaller, mono Bluetooth speakers.

Should you get the JBL Clip 5 or JBL Go 4?

If you’re packing for a trip where every pound and square inch counts, or you’re simply looking for a budget-friendly speaker to have around at all times for those impromptu park hangs, go for the Go 4 (). It’s incredibly lightweight and durable, and now offers customizable sound.

Personally, I’m going with the Clip 5 (). For an additional $30, you get a better battery life and bass response from this slightly bigger, higher-wattage speaker. The extra weight is almost negligible, and with its signature carabiner, you can still easily carry it around. For less than $80, either speaker makes a great shower speaker.

What should you get instead of the JBL Clip 5 and JBL Go 4?

The Soundcore Select 4 Go is a worthy alternative to the Go 4 or Clip 5.

If you’re looking to keep things affordable, the Soundcore Select 4 Go () is worth a look. This budget-friendly speaker comes with the same IP67 rating and a built-in carrying loop, but it stands out with better sound customization. The Soundcore companion app includes a 9-band EQ, letting you fine-tune the audio to match your preferences.

If you need something a bit larger with more power than the Go 4 or Clip 5, the JBL Flip 7 () is a solid step up. It delivers even better durability while staying portable enough for everyday use. Check out our video above to see what makes this popular speaker worth the upgrade.

Frequently asked questions

Are the JBL Clip 5 and Go 4 waterproof?

Yes. Both speakers have an IP67 rating, meaning they can survive a dunk in water up to a meter for 30 minutes.

Can the JBL Clip 5 and Go 4 connect to other speakers?

Yes, both speakers can connect to other Auracast-supported speakers like the JBL Xtreme 4.

Can you use the JBL Clip 5 and Go 4 while charging?

Yes, both units can be used while charging.

Do the JBL Clip 5 and Go 4 have a microphone?

No. Neither the Clip 5 nor the Go 4 features a microphone.

Do the JBL Clip 5 and Go 4 have AUX?

No. Neither the Clip 5 nor the Go 4 features an AUX input. Bluetooth is your only connection option.

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless: Which should you buy?

Adam Birney — Thu, 29 May 2025 13:00:23 +0000

Sony and Sennheiser have long battled for top billing in the noise canceling headphone arena. The WH-1000XM6 are the latest flagship headphones from Sony, but Sennheiser’s MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is still going strong from nearly three years ago. We’ve spent significant time with both, testing how they handle daily commutes, long listening sessions, and real-world distractions. While Sony refines and refines, Sennheiser provides much value that might be enough to endure the competition.

How has this article been updated?

This article was updated on May 29, 2025, to add our video review.

What’s it like to use the Sony WH-1000XM6 compared to the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

The Momentum 4 Wireless has thicker padding than the Sony XM6.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 removes pain points from past models — fragile hinges, awkward fold-flat design, and an indistinguishable power button — and replaces them with practical improvements. The new metal skeleton folding hinges feel more robust than previous generations, and pairing is fast with predictable touch controls. The headphones fold neatly into a minimalist softshell case. However, the thin ear pads present a potential comfort concern. In testing, we measured only about 8mm of clearance between the plastic chassis and your head with a brand-new pair, and this gap can vary based on clamping pressure and whether the viscoelastic foam relaxes over time. The protruding ANC microphones inside the ear cups can potentially cause discomfort depending on your ear shape, especially if they brush against your tragus. Glasses wearers may find the seal particularly challenging to maintain with the thinner padding.

Sennheiser’s MOMENTUM 4 Wireless leans into comfort with noticeably thicker padding than Sony and a lighter build thanks to its plastic frame. The deeper ear cups provide more room for larger ears, though the gap between the pads is somewhat smaller. These headphones don’t fold completely like the Sony XM6 — instead, they use two swiveling yokes that lay flat, so the included carrying case is larger but can hold all accessories. The fabric-wrapped headband provides more give and doesn’t dig in during extended wear. I wore them for hours without fatigue, making them ideal for long listening sessions.

Both headphones feature Smart Pause, which automatically halts playback when you take them off, and Adaptive ANC that tweaks performance based on your surroundings. Neither headset offers water resistance, and both are unsuitable for rain or gym use.

How do you control Sony WH-1000XM6?

[table id=597 /]

How do you control Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

[table id=220 /]

The control schemes are remarkably similar between both models, with the main difference being Sony’s hand-cupping gesture for pass-through mode versus Sennheiser’s double-tap ANC toggle.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless have more features?

Sony stuffed the WH-1000XM6 with an impressive array of features that set it apart. You get a full 10-band EQ, spatial audio via 360 Reality Audio, DSEE Extreme for upscaling, volume limiting, and even head gesture support. The headphones can upmix stereo audio to emulate spatial formats, and while there’s no USB audio support, Auracast and LC3 are onboard. Multipoint connection is supported, though at reduced codec quality. Sony’s app development team has a strong track record of adding new features through firmware updates, as we’ve seen with previous WH-1000XM models. You can modify the sound profile to simulate different listening environments, like a nearby speaker or café ambiance. It’s a feature-rich headset aimed at power users, with enough software support to keep tinkerers happy for years.

The MOMENTUM 4 Wireless takes a more focused approach, offering core features like USB-C and analog listening, ANC customization, geotagging profiles, and call auto-hold with Smart Pause. While it lacks Sony’s ambitious spatial audio features and the extensive app ecosystem, what it offers is more practical and refined rather than flashy. The app provides EQ tweaks, firmware updates, and granular ANC control, though Sennheiser’s development team has a slower track record for feature additions and bug fixes compared to Sony. Sennheiser’s approach may be more appealing if you value simplicity, exceptional battery life, and future-proof connectivity over experimental features.

How do the Sony WH-1000XM6 and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless connect?

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless has more Bluetooth codec options.

Sony’s connectivity approach focuses on wireless excellence, supporting Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC, LDAC (at 330, 660, and 990 kbps transfer rates), and LC3. The inclusion of LE audio and advanced Bluetooth features gives Sony a clear wireless advantage. However, Sony curiously omits USB-C audio support — a growing standard among rivals that represents a significant oversight for a 2025 flagship. Auracast is technically supported, though not fully functional in our tests. Analog connections are handled via standard 3.5mm TRRS. Multipoint works effectively, but forces reduced codec quality.

Sennheiser offers superior wired flexibility with a wider range of codec options: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive. More importantly, it supports full USB-C digital audio listening, which Sony completely lacks. This gives the older Sennheiser headphones a significant future-proofing advantage. For wired analog listening, you’ll need the included 3.5mm to 2.5mm TRRS cable, but if you lose it, replacements are readily available. The seamless switching between codecs and wired modes showcases Sennheiser’s connectivity foresight.

Looking ahead 5 years, the lack of USB-C audio on the Sony XM6 becomes more concerning. As analog jacks become less ubiquitous and new connection standards like micropower Wi-Fi emerge, having USB-C digital audio provides a crucial fallback for lossless listening without dongles. In this forward-looking perspective, the older Sennheiser actually offers better longevity despite Sony’s newer Bluetooth stack.

Is battery life better on the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

This comparison isn’t even close. In our standardized testing, the Sony WH-1000XM6 delivered a respectable 37 hours and 14 minutes of playback with ANC enabled — beating most competitors but falling well short of the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless, which achieved an exceptional 56 hours and 21 minutes under identical conditions.

While Sony offers useful quick charging (3 minutes for 3 hours of playback), the real advantage lies in Sennheiser’s dramatically longer runtime. Beyond convenience, this has significant long-term implications for battery health. Fewer charge cycles translate directly to better battery longevity — what seems like one or two additional weekly charges could accumulate to 100-200 extra cycles annually. Over a typical 5-6 year headphone lifespan, this difference could mean Sennheiser’s battery lasts a full year longer than Sony’s. Sennheiser offers a clear advantage for users prioritizing longevity and reduced battery maintenance.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless block noise better?

Sony’s WH-1000XM6 delivers industry-leading noise cancellation, achieving approximately 87% loudness attenuation in our lab tests. The Q3 processor adapts quickly to environmental changes, with excellent passive isolation supporting the active system in muting low and midrange frequencies. Our simulations showed impressive reductions in sub-1kHz noise. However, the thinner ear pads can compromise the seal, particularly for glasses wearers, potentially affecting ANC performance.

Sennheiser’s ANC implementation is notably weaker, managing around 76-80% noise reduction — adequate for office use or commuting but falling short in demanding environments like aircraft cabins. The system particularly struggles with low-frequency attenuation, meaning you’ll hear more of the rumble from subways, buses, and airplane engines. However, the thicker padding provides a more forgiving and consistent seal for glasses wearers.

Interestingly, some urban dwellers might actually prefer Sennheiser’s more permeable approach, as it allows better awareness of surrounding traffic and safety sounds. But for maximum isolation during air travel or noisy commutes, Sony’s superior ANC is the clear winner.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 sound better than the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

Both headphones represent the best-sounding noise-canceling options their respective companies have produced, though they take different approaches to audio reproduction.

Sony’s refined tuning achieves near-perfection with the WH-1000XM6, offering a dark but balanced signature with tasteful bass boost and extended treble that adds atmosphere without harshness. The 30mm drivers, despite their compact size, deliver impressive audio clarity with a slightly more vivid 3D soundstage. Sony leans darker overall, with strong sub-bass presence ideal for pop and hip-hop, plus a surprising brightness peak around 16kHz that helps older recordings feel more lively. However, this tuning includes more dramatic swings and emphasis in the highs that can be difficult to EQ away.

Sennheiser prioritizes accuracy by sticking closer to our preference curve, avoiding extreme emphasis in lows or highs. This creates a more natural sound that’s easier to customize through EQ if needed. The frequency response shows fewer deviations from neutral, with only mild sub-bass lift and restrained treble that avoids fatigue-inducing peaks. For vinyl-era recordings or detailed mixes, Sennheiser may actually edge ahead depending on taste preferences, offering a smoother and more balanced foundation for critical listening.

Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS)

The MDAQS algorithm rates the WH-1000XM6 slightly ahead of the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless.

Sony scores a 4.9 in Timbre, 4.3 in Distortion, and 4.6 in Immersiveness, with a strong 4.8 overall — the highest for any WH-series to date. These ratings confirm what I heard: a clean, full-spectrum sound with low artifacts and good stereo depth even without spatial modes engaged.

Sennheiser isn’t far behind, with a 4.8 in Timbre, 3.5 in Distortion, and 4.1 in Immersiveness, netting a 4.6 overall. The slightly lower Immersiveness and Distortion scores reflect a more analytical sound signature and slightly less pronounced soundstage. Still, these scores make the MOMENTUM 4 one of the best-sounding wireless headphones under $400, and they offer a different flavor that some listeners may prefer.

What do the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores mean?

Timbre (MOS-T) represents how faithfully the headphones reproduce the frequency spectrum and temporal resolution (timing information).
Distortion (MOS-D) represents non-linearities and added noise: higher scores mean cleaner reproduction.
Immersiveness (MOS-I) represents perceived source width and positioning: how well virtual sound sources are defined in three-dimensional space.

Objective Measurements

Objectively, Sony leans darker, with more emphasis in the bass and a bit of brightness in the treble that can add perceived detail. I measured a strong sub-bass presence, ideal for pop and hip-hop, and a surprising Knowles-like peak around 16kHz. This tuning helps older recordings feel more lively but may be fatiguing for sensitive listeners on tracks with aggressive upper frequencies.

The MOMENTUM 4 Wireless hews closer to our ideal preference curve, with only a mild sub-bass lift and a restrained treble. Sennheiser’s frequency response avoids the pitfalls of over-enhanced highs, delivering a smoother, less fatiguing listen. In our lab tests, they performed reliably across genres and volume levels, and their out-of-the-box tuning required little correction. This makes them a safer choice for those chasing a balanced sound.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless have a better microphone?

Sony takes a decisive win with its 6-microphone beamforming array enhanced by AI processing to isolate voice from environmental noise. The system performed excellently across ideal, street, and windy conditions in our lab testing. Sony clearly invested significant resources in voice clarity under challenging conditions, and the results speak for themselves.

Sennheiser’s microphone array handles quiet environments adequately but struggles with noise rejection in real-world scenarios. While it delivers usable audio for standard calls, the more aggressive noise processing on Sony’s system provides noticeably clearer results. However, some users have reported occasional over-processing artifacts with Sony’s system, though our testing suggests call quality limitations are more likely due to network conditions than the headphones themselves.

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sony_WH-1000XM6-ideal.mp3

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Sennheiser-Momentum-4-Wireless_Ideal-microphone-sample.mp3

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Wind conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sony_WH-1000XM6-windy.mp3

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless microphone demo (Wind conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Sennheiser-Momentum-4-Wireless_Wind-microphone-sample.mp3

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless: Price and availability

At $449.99, the Sony WH-1000XM6 sits at the premium end of the ANC headphone market. That price reflects its feature-rich package, flagship branding, and incremental improvements over previous generations. It’s widely available from major retailers and occasionally sees modest discounts.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless retails for $350, offering compelling value at $100 less than Sony. As these headphones have matured in the market over nearly three years, the price has come down considerably from launch, making them an even better value proposition. For budget-conscious buyers seeking top-tier audio and exceptional battery life, the MOMENTUM 4 punches well above its weight class.

Should you get the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless?

For $100 less, the Momentum 4 is a pretty good value if you don’t need the best ANC performance.

The recommendation depends entirely on what you need your headphones to accomplish over the next 5 years.

Choose Sony WH-1000XM6 if you want:

The strongest available ANC performance
Cutting-edge spatial audio and upmixing features
Superior microphone for calls and meetings
Extensive app features with ongoing updates
Latest Bluetooth standards and wireless tech

Sony delivers the most polished WH-series experience yet, with thoughtful design improvements and standout sound quality. It’s the clear choice for users who prioritize digital signal processing capabilities and are willing to pay a premium price.

Choose Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless if you prioritize:

Exceptional 55+ hour battery life and longevity
USB-C digital audio for future-proofing
Superior comfort for extended wear
More natural, easily customizable sound signature
Better value at $100 less

Despite being nearly three years old, the MOMENTUM 4 offers practical advantages that may prove more valuable over time. The combination of USB-C audio support, exceptional battery life, and comfortable design makes it an excellent choice for users seeking reliable, long-term performance.

The future-proofing factor shouldn’t be overlooked. While Sony offers newer Bluetooth features, Sennheiser’s USB-C audio capability provides a crucial backup as connection standards evolve. With new wireless technologies like micropower Wi-Fi emerging, having reliable wired digital audio ensures compatibility regardless of future developments.

Both headphones deliver excellent performance — the “right” choice depends on whether you value cutting-edge features and maximum ANC (Sony) or practical longevity and superior value (Sennheiser).

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs JBL Tour One M3: A new noise canceling king?

Adam Birney — Tue, 27 May 2025 12:16:06 +0000

With the rise of feature-packed ANC headphones, JBL and Sony are doubling down on what it means to make a flagship headset. The JBL Tour One M3 takes a bold step into the future with an all-in-one system designed for ultimate flexibility, while the Sony WH-1000XM6 fine-tunes an already polished formula. These two headphones aim to solve similar problems in very different ways. So, which one should you buy?

How has this article been updated?

This article was originally published on May 27, 2025, and this is the first version.

What’s it like to use the Sony WH-1000XM6 compared to the JBL Tour One M3?

Physical buttons are a little more responsive and intuitive than tap controls, but can also move the headphones unintentionally.

Both the JBL Tour One M3 and Sony WH-1000XM6 fit squarely into the category of premium ANC headphones, and they act like it. You’re not going to find wild new form factors or weird quirks here. Instead, both aim to disappear into your routine: great sound, great noise canceling, and enough comfort to wear through a cross-country flight or a full day at the office.

The JBL Tour One M3 offers a smooth, practical experience with soft pads, a padded headband, and fold-flat earcups that tuck neatly into the included travel case. It’s light enough to wear for hours at a time, and while the fit is solid overall, folks with smaller heads might struggle to get a snug seal. One unique twist is the SMART Tx accessory—a compact remote and transmitter that lets you connect to wired sources wirelessly, adjust EQ, or share audio with other Auracast-compatible devices. It’s super handy, but it’s also one more thing to keep charged and not lose.

The Sony-WH-1000XM6 uses tap and swipe controls and head gestures to control playback, all of which reduce the risk of a broken seal.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 sticks with a tried-and-true formula, but addresses small gripes from past models. The new hinge folds up again, the buttons are easier to find, and the headphone cups feel solidly built. Comfort is good, though the thinner pads and protruding ANC mic might irritate certain ears depending on the fit. Still, these headphones are easy to use, intuitive to control, and feel purpose-built for daily life. Whether you’re dialing into a video call or zoning out to a playlist, they get the job done with very little fuss.

How do you control Sony WH-1000XM6?

[table id=597 /]

How do you control JBL Tour One M3?

[table id=588 /]

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or JBL Tour One M3 have more features?

The USB-C port on the JBL Tour One M3 can handle audio passthrough, so you can listen to lossless files decoded in the headphones.

The JBL Tour One M3 makes a strong case as one of the most feature-rich headphones available today. It offers lossless USB-C audio, Bluetooth 5.3, Auracast broadcasting, spatial audio, personal sound amplification, and customizable passthrough modes. Most of these can be accessed via the SMART Tx remote without using the app, which makes it feel more self-contained than a lot of other headphones I’ve tested.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 also comes packed with features, including 360 Reality Audio, a 10-band EQ, DSEE Extreme audio upscaling, adaptive sound control, and support for multipoint connectivity. However, it lacks USB-C audio and doesn’t support Auracast broadcasting, both of which are becoming more common in flagship models. You can still receive Auracast streams in supported environments, but the lack of transmission limits its flexibility compared to JBL.

How do the Sony WH-1000XM6 and JBL Tour One M3 connect?

The SMART Tx transmitter turns any wired source into a wireless one.

JBL clearly prioritized flexibility here. The Tour One M3 supports SBC, AAC, LDAC, and LC3 over Bluetooth 5.3, plus wired analog and digital connections. The USB-C port handles both charging and lossless audio, and the SMART Tx accessory even lets you turn non-Bluetooth sources into wireless transmitters. Whether you’re watching in-flight movies or gaming on a Switch, you’ve got options.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 supports the same wireless codecs over Bluetooth 5.3 and works great with LDAC and multipoint connections. However, it lacks USB audio support, which feels like a step behind, given how many other brands now include it. You’ll still get wired playback via 3.5mm, but if you’re using a modern phone or laptop with USB-C only, JBL is the more accommodating choice.

Is battery life better on the Sony WH-1000XM6 or JBL Tour One M3?

If battery life is a priority, the JBL Tour One M3 is the clear winner. With ANC on, it lasted 55 hours and 37 minutes in our testing—just a few minutes shy of the category-leading Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4. That’s nearly 20 hours more than Sony’s 37-hour result with the WH-1000XM6, which is still impressive, but clearly second place in this matchup.

Sony does offer a quick-charge option that claims 3 hours of playback from just a 3-minute charge, which could be handy in a pinch. Still, JBL’s longevity means you’ll recharge less often, which helps reduce wear on the battery over time and gives you more freedom when traveling.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or JBL Tour One M3 block noise better?

Both headphones offer top-tier noise canceling performance, scoring 8.7 in our ANC tests. JBL’s isolation and active noise cancelation reduce low-end noise by about 30dB, and the earcup design does a great job blocking high frequencies passively. It’s a strong performer, especially in offices, planes, or city streets.

Sony’s WH-1000XM6 uses a powerful ANC chip and tight-fitting earcups to create equally impressive results. Isolation is excellent, and the system adapts quickly to changes in the environment. The only caveat is that if the ANC mic presses on your ear or you wear glasses, it might disrupt the seal slightly. Otherwise, it’s hard to tell these two apart in noisy environments—they’re both best-in-class.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 sound better than the JBL Tour One M3?

Sony wins out of the box. The WH-1000XM6 has a smooth, warm tuning that emphasizes bass without overwhelming the mids, and the highs are clear enough to bring detail to vocals and cymbals. JBL’s default sound is less impressive, with a dip between 3–7kHz that flattens the sense of space and clarity. Fortunately, JBL’s EQ presets—especially the Jazz setting—fix that quickly, making the headphones much more enjoyable.

Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS)

Sony scored a 4.8 overall, with high marks in Timbre (4.9), Immersiveness (4.6), and Distortion (4.3). JBL’s default mode scored just 3.9, but that jumped to 4.6 with the Jazz EQ preset applied. That’s a huge improvement and shows how important it is to spend a little time adjusting the sound to your liking.

What do the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores mean?

Timbre (MOS-T) represents how faithfully the headphones reproduce the frequency spectrum and temporal resolution (timing information).
Distortion (MOS-D) represents non-linearities and added noise: higher scores mean cleaner reproduction.
Immersiveness (MOS-I) represents perceived source width and positioning: how well virtual sound sources are defined in three-dimensional space.

Objective Measurements

Sony’s WH-1000XM6 follows a more traditional tuning, with elevated bass strength and boosted brilliance in the treble. It veers from our preference curve but maintains clarity and a sense of detail many listeners will appreciate.

The JBL Tour One M3 sticks closer to our house curve in the lows and mids, but the pronounced dip between 3kHz and 7kHz reduces brilliance, presence, and clarity. This affects attack and makes vocals sound muted. Switching to an EQ preset like Jazz restores treble strength and makes the JBL a much better match to Sony’s more energetic sound.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or JBL Tour One M3 have a better microphone?

The WH-1000XM6 takes the edge in microphone quality. Its six-mic array and AI-enhanced noise suppression performed well in every environment we tested, from windy outdoor scenes to echoey conference rooms. Voices stayed clear and intelligible even in tough conditions.

JBL’s eight-microphone setup is no slouch, and it handled calls well in most situations. However, the XM6 more consistently reduced background noise, particularly with wind or sudden loud sounds. If you’re regularly on calls or taking meetings in unpredictable environments, Sony’s the better bet.

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sony_WH-1000XM6-ideal.mp3

JBL Tour One M3 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/JBL_Tour_One_M3-ideal.mp3

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Windy conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sony_WH-1000XM6-windy.mp3

JBL Tour One M3 microphone demo (Windy conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/JBL_Tour_One_M3-windy.mp3

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs JBL Tour One M3: Price and availability

The JBL Tour One M3 launched at $399.95, while the Sony WH-1000XM6 hit the market at $449.99. Both are widely available through major retailers, and sales may bring the XM6 price down over time. That said, JBL delivers more forward-looking features at a slightly lower MSRP, which strengthens its value proposition.

Sony’s headphones might be easier to find in physical stores or bundled with streaming service offers, while JBL often runs direct discounts online. Depending on your budget and timing, you could find either at a good price, but JBL gives you more for the money today.

Should you get the Sony WH-1000XM6 or JBL Tour One M3?

If you want future-ready features and maximum flexibility, the JBL Tour One M3 is the better all-around buy. Its SMART Tx accessory, Auracast broadcasting, lossless USB-C audio, and massive battery life make it the kind of headphone you can grow into as your gear evolves.

But if you care more about premium sound, top-tier microphone performance, and a hassle-free experience right out of the box, the Sony WH-1000XM6 is a fantastic choice. It’s not flashy, but it’s reliable, easy to use, and polished in all the right places.

No matter which you choose, you’ll get a great pair of ANC headphones. Just make sure the one you pick matches your priorities—whether that’s future-proof tech or daily simplicity.

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Sony WH-1000XM4: Finally worth upgrading?

Adam Birney — Mon, 19 May 2025 11:30:37 +0000

The Sony WH-1000XM4 has been a fan favorite since its release, and for good reason. Even after the WH-1000XM5 launched with a sleek new design and similarly strong performance, many users stuck with the XM4 — whether due to its foldable frame, discounted price, or simply because the XM5 didn’t feel like a big enough leap in day-to-day use.

Now we’ve got the Sony WH-1000XM6, which aims to fix the nitpicks users had with previous models while subtly improving performance across the board. So, is this the real successor fans have been waiting for? Or does the WH-1000XM4 still have life left in it?

How has this article been updated?

This article was originally published on May 19, 2025, and this is the first version.

What’s it like to use the Sony WH-1000XM6 compared to the WH-1000XM4?

They fold again!

In day-to-day use, the WH-1000XM6 feels like Sony finally listened to all the little complaints from the XM5 that might have scared people off. It ditches the fragile hinge and awkward lay-flat-only design of the XM5, returning to something more like the XM4 — and then improving on it. The newly redesigned buttons are easier to use, and I appreciated not having to fuss with the app to get the most out of the experience.

Meanwhile, the WH-1000XM4 also offers a polished experience, with multipoint Bluetooth and a handy auto-pause feature. However, double-tap gestures occasionally misfire, and while the earcups are thick and comfortable, the thinner headband padding becomes noticeable during long listening sessions. If you compare them head-to-head, the XM6 is the more refined headset to use daily, but both perform reliably well.

How do you control Sony WH-1000XM6?

[table id=597 /]

How do you control Sony WH-1000XM4?

[table id=135 /]

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or WH-1000XM4 have more features?

The WH-1000XM6 comes packed with features that power users will love. Using the Sony Sound Connect app, you can access a 10-band EQ, spatial audio upmixing, DSEE Extreme, volume limiting, and more. It also has AI-powered call handling, head gestures, and improved passthrough functions. However, the lack of USB-C audio and Auracast support could become problematic as audio tech standards evolve.

The WH-1000XM4 doesn’t feel outdated either. It still boasts multipoint connectivity, speak-to-chat, adaptive sound control, 360 Reality Audio, and EQ customization through the app. That said, it doesn’t support LE Audio or some of the newer features Sony introduced with the XM6. Still, for most people, the XM4 has everything you’d need.

How do the Sony WH-1000XM6 and WH-1000XM4 connect?

The folding hinges on the XM6 are more complicated.

Sony upgrades the XM6 to Bluetooth 5.3, supporting SBC, AAC, LDAC, and LC3. It allows multipoint, though you’ll have to give up LDAC to use it. Wired listening is still available via 3.5mm, but you can’t listen through the USB-C port. Auracast is technically supported in the documentation, but it didn’t work during testing — a possible future firmware fix.

The XM4 uses the older Bluetooth 5.0 and supports SBC, AAC, and LDAC. Multipoint works great, but only with AAC, which limits sound quality for Android users. Still, the connection stays rock solid even when moving around a decent-sized apartment. USB-C charging is available here, but like the XM6, there’s no USB audio passthrough.

Is battery life better on the Sony WH-1000XM6 or WH-1000XM4?

In our tests, the WH-1000XM6 ran for 37 hours and 14 minutes with ANC on — a notable improvement over its predecessors and enough for most long-haul travelers. It supports fast charging too, promising about 3 hours of playback with just 3 minutes plugged in.

By comparison, the XM4 clocked in at just under 20 hours in our same test conditions, which is slightly less than the XM3. While Sony claims 30 hours, real-world use just doesn’t hit that number. However, a quick 10-minute charge does get you 5 hours of use, which can be a lifesaver in a pinch.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Sony WH-1000XM4 block noise better?

Noise canceling on the WH-1000XM6 is excellent, thanks in part to strong passive isolation and the powerful Q3 chip. In my testing, it handled low-end rumbles and high-frequency annoyances equally well, especially in variable environments. That said, glasses wearers might still notice seal issues due to the thinner ear pads.

Among the best in its class, the Sony WH-1000XM4 offers very good noise cancelation and isolation.

The WH-1000XM4 still offers top-tier ANC for its price, especially in the lower frequencies like airplane hum or office HVAC. It slightly outperforms the XM5 in the 120–600Hz range but falls behind in the upper mids and highs. Compared to the XM6, the XM4 is a step behind, but still very good overall.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 sound better than the Sony WH-1000XM4?

The XM4 has more ample padding for the ear cushions and headband.

The WH-1000XM6 is Sony’s best-sounding ANC headphone yet. It avoids the overly bass-heavy tuning that the XM5 exhibited and delivers a warm sound that most listeners will enjoy. The treble peaks give music a sense of detail and air, while the improved driver design keeps Distortion low, even with higher-end codecs like LDAC.

The WH-1000XM4 also sounds excellent. It handles mids and highs well, making vocals and acoustic tracks shine. Bass is slightly restrained compared to most consumer headphones, which some may find refreshing. EQ options in the app help tailor things further for either headphone.

Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS)

The XM6 earned standout scores: Timbre (4.9), Distortion (4.3), Immersiveness (4.6), and Overall (4.8) — these are among the best results we’ve seen in this line. The XM4, by comparison, scored Timbre (4.1), Distortion (3.4), Immersiveness (4.7), and Overall (4). So while still strong, the XM4 clearly trails the XM6 in overall fidelity and cleanliness.

What do the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores mean?

Timbre (MOS-T) represents how faithfully the headphones reproduce the frequency spectrum and temporal resolution (timing information).
Distortion (MOS-D) represents non-linearities and added noise: higher scores mean cleaner reproduction.
Immersiveness (MOS-I) represents perceived source width and positioning: how well virtual sound sources are defined in three-dimensional space.

Objective Measurements

Compared to our industry-validated preference curve, both headphones lean into a subtle bass lift without going overboard. The treble region on the XM6 is extended but not harsh, creating a pleasing tonal balance. The XM4, meanwhile, offers slightly under-emphasized mids and very over-emphasized highs, which can become fatiguing. If you like a warmer sound out of the box, the XM6 is the better pick.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Sony WH-1000XM4 have a better microphone?

The WH-1000XM6 features a new AI-based microphone system with a six-mic beamforming array, and it works. In our office, street, and windy conditions tests, the XM6 kept voices clear and background noise at bay. Wind handling, in particular, was impressive — far better than most ANC headphones I’ve tested.

The WH-1000XM4 microphone is adequate but unremarkable. Our lab testing found it slightly lacks low-frequency detail, and while it holds up for calls or Zoom meetings, it doesn’t isolate your voice as well in noisy conditions. If call quality is a big deal, the XM6 offers a clear advantage.

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sony_WH-1000XM6-ideal.mp3

Sony WH-1000XM4 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Sony-WH-1000xm4_Ideal-microphone-sample.mp3

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Office conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sony_WH-1000XM6-office.mp3

Sony WH-1000XM4 microphone demo (Office conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Sony-WH-1000xm4_Office-microphone-sample.mp3

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Sony WH-1000XM4: Price and availability

At launch, the WH-1000XM6 retails for $449.99, which matches current ANC flagships from other brands. It’s widely available and will likely see discounts in the future.

The WH-1000XM4 originally launched at $348 but has frequently been discounted since the XM5’s release. New or refurbished units can be found on sale for under $200, making it a solid budget-friendly option for those who want Sony’s hallmark experience without breaking the bank.

Should you get the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Sony WH-1000XM4?

Sony’s latest XM6 headphones go for more than twice the price of the discounts we’ve seen on the XM4.

If you want the absolute best that Sony offers and aren’t worried about spending more, the WH-1000XM6 is the clear winner. It improves on the XM4’s already great formula with better ANC, cleaner sound, smarter features, and a more refined build.

However, if you’re price-sensitive or want excellent ANC headphones without needing or wanting to go all-in on the latest and greatest, the WH-1000XM4 still holds up admirably. It’s not future-proof, but if you aren’t planning to upgrade your phone soon anyway, it’s still compelling value today.

The new Sony XM6 make the Beats Studio Pro look affordable (crazy, right?)

Chase Bernath — Sun, 18 May 2025 13:00:12 +0000

The Sony WH-1000XM6 are here, and they have a staggering price tag of $449, which somehow even makes the Beats Studio Pro look affordable in comparison. While both are competent in their own right, they differ significantly in features. After hands-on testing with both pairs, I can confidently say that choosing between them depends heavily on your priorities (and your budget).

How has this article been updated?

This is the first version of this comparison article, and will be updated as needed.

What’s it like to use the Sony WH-1000XM6 compared to the Beats Studio Pro?

The Sony WH-1000XM6 (left) have touch controls, whereas the Beats Studio Pro have physical button controls.

Sony has worked out many of the quirks from the previous Sony WH-1000XM5, fixing issues like fragile hinges and awkward controls. I appreciate the redesigned power button, improved folding hinge, and soft-touch case that, while minimalist, still offers good protection. The ear cups are shallow and the padding is minimal, so if you have large ears, you might experience comfort issues with the XM6.

The Beats Studio Pro are also not ideal for those with a large head or large ears. The small ear cups and tight fit caused discomfort in under an hour for some of our team members. People with glasses, long hair, or larger heads will likely find these headphones especially frustrating. Build quality also feels cheaper, with odd decisions like thin headband padding and overly stiff hinges.

How do you control Sony WH-1000XM6?

The Sony WH-1000XM6 have physical buttons for ANC/passthrough and power/BT, as well as capacitive touch controls on the right ear cup to control playback.

How do you control Beats Studio Pro?

The Beats Studio Pro have physical buttons. While physical buttons are more intuitive, they require a firm press against your head, and the click sound is quite loud.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Beats Studio Pro have more features?

The Sony WH-1000XM6 is absolutely stacked with features. Through the Sony Connect app, you get access to a 10-band EQ, Spatial Audio via 360 Reality Audio, DSEE Extreme, advanced Bluetooth settings, and even head gestures. While the omission of Auracast and USB audio is disappointing, Sony’s software suite gives power users nearly everything else they could want.

Beats Studio Pro, on the other hand, provides a more streamlined experience. Despite lacking an H1 or H2 chip, it surprisingly includes a USB DAC for wired listening—something Sony doesn’t offer. You also get Apple’s Find My support, head-tracked Spatial Audio, and fast pairing with Apple devices, while Android users can download the Beats app for customization. Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM6 have the slight edge when it comes to features and customization options.

How do the Sony WH-1000XM6 and Beats Studio Pro connect?

Sony’s WH-1000XM6 supports Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC, AAC, SBC, and LC3. Multipoint works if you accept a drop in codec quality, and wired audio is supported through a 3.5mm jack. However, there’s no USB-C audio passthrough—a notable omission, especially in 2025.

Beats Studio Pro supports SBC and AAC via Bluetooth, plus both 3.5mm and USB-C wired listening. This USB-C DAC is a standout feature, offering lossless wired audio and EQ presets. The Beats headphones have the advantage when it comes to wired listening, while the Sony headphones have the advantage with wireless connectivity tech.

Is battery life better on the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Beats Studio Pro?

Sony takes the win here, though both headphones perform well. The WH-1000XM6 clocked in at 37 hours and 14 minutes in our battery test, easily covering long-haul flights or full workweeks. Fast charging is efficient too, giving you 3 hours of playback with a 3-minute charge.

Beats Studio Pro trails a bit with 31 hours and 25 minutes, but still offers strong endurance. It also supports fast charging—10 minutes yields 4 hours of playback. While the Studio Pro’s battery life is slightly shorter, it still holds up as a solid option, especially for commuters.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Beats Studio Pro block noise better?

The Sony WH-1000XM6 are superior to the Beats Studio Pro when it comes to blocking out noise. According to our testing, the Sony WH-1000XM6 block out an average of 87% of external noise with ANC enabled, whereas the Beats Studio Pro block out an average of 79% of external noise with ANC enabled. In most cases, this difference isn’t that extreme, but you will notice the benefit of the XM6 if you are travelling or in otherwise noisy environments.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 sound better than the Beats Studio Pro?

Most people will enjoy the sound quality of both the Sony WH-1000XM6 and the Beats Studio Pro. Surprisingly, the Sony headphones offer slightly more bass out of the box, according to our testing data. You get a much better EQ experience with the Sony app than with the Beats onboard controls, so if you like tweaking the sound quality to your preferences, you’ll want to go with Sony. The XM6 support Sony 360 Reality Audio with select streaming services, whereas the Beats Studio Pro support Spatial Audio with Apple devices.

Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS)

Both headphones score equally high in sound quality according to MDAQS, with an Overall rating of 4.8 on a scale from 1-5. This means there is a very high chance that most people will enjoy the default sound of both of these headphones.

What do the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores mean?

Timbre (MOS-T) represents how faithfully the headphones reproduce the frequency spectrum and temporal resolution (timing information).
Distortion (MOS-D) represents non-linearities and added noise: higher scores mean cleaner reproduction.
Immersiveness (MOS-I) represents perceived source width and positioning: how well virtual sound sources are defined in three-dimensional space.

Objective Measurements

Both headphones follow our SoundGuys Preference Curve relatively close. The Sony WH-1000XM6 have slightly more bass below 200Hz, whereas the Beats Studio Pro have more treble emphasis from 5-12kHz.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Beats Studio Pro have a better microphone?

Sony’s WH-1000XM6 microphone array uses AI noise extraction and six beamforming mics to excellent effect. In our tests, it performed admirably in windy and reverberant environments, delivering clear voice capture even outdoors. This is one of the best call experiences you can get from consumer headphones right now.

Beats Studio Pro, by contrast, offers underwhelming mic performance. Recordings came in low and weak, and background noise often overpowered the voice. While call quality might be passable in a quiet room, it falls short in any real-world scenario. That said, the microphone quality varies depending on what device you are connected to, with improved noise rejection when connected to Apple devices.

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sony_WH-1000XM6-ideal.mp3

Beats Studio Pro microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Beats-Studio-Pro_Ideal-microphone-sample.mp3

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Windy conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sony_WH-1000XM6-windy.mp3

Beats Studio Pro microphone demo (Windy conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Beats-Studio-Pro_Wind-microphone-sample.mp3

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Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Beats Studio Pro: Price and availability

At $449.99, the Sony WH-1000XM6 sits at the premium end of the market. The Beats Studio Pro launched at $349, which makes it the cheaper option. Since the Beats Studio Pro are a few years older, you are also more likely to find them on sale. During big sale events such as Black Friday, we’ve seen the Beats Studio Pro dip below $200. At that price, the Beats Studio Pro are an excellent value.

Should you get the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Beats Studio Pro?

Ultimately, your decision here depends on your budget. If you want the best, the Sony WH-1000XM6 deliver, but they’ll cost you a lot. On the other hand, if you can find the Beats Studio Pro on sale, they are an excellent value buy. Unless you need the absolute best features and performance, you’re probably fine sticking with the Beats Studio Pro. For most people, the Beats Studio Pro are very serviceable noise canceling headphones.

Sony WH-1000XM6 vs AirPods Max: Is there a noise canceling champion?

Chase Bernath — Sat, 17 May 2025 12:00:06 +0000

Sony and Apple have long dueled it out for the title of best noise canceling headphone. While the AirPods Max have been around since 2020, they have received numerous updates since then, including support for USB-C and wired listening. On the other hand, the Sony WH-1000XM6 are the new challenger, an update to the popular Sony WH-1000XM5. So, which headphone reigns supreme? We put both through our SoundGuys testing lab to find.

How has this article been updated?

This is the first version of the article, and will be updated as needed.

What’s it like to use the Sony WH-1000XM6 compared to the Apple AirPods Max?

The AirPods Max have a premium aluminum finish, but weigh more.

With the design of the XM6, Sony clearly listened to feedback from previous generations, addressing issues like flimsy hinges, foldability, and poor button placement. You get instant usability without needing the app, with intuitive controls and minimal setup friction.

Neither the Sony WH-1000XM6 or the AirPods Max have an IP water resistance rating. If you’re going to spend this much on headphones, make sure you are careful not to wear them out in the rain or during a particularly sweaty workout. That said, when it comes to durability, the Sony WH-1000XM6 are the clear winner thanks to the charging case. The case for the XM6 will keep the headphones dry and scratch-free, whereas the AirPods Max case is simply awful. The “smart case” for the AirPods Max doesn’t protect the headband at all, and the case functions as a power on/off button, which can get annoying fast. On the plus side, you can easily replace the ear pads of both the AirPods Max and Sony WH-1000XM6.

I find both the Sony WH-1000XM6 and AirPods Max comfortable to wear for hours on end. That said, the AirPods Max are a hefty 385g, which causes pressure points on the top of the head for some people. On the other hand, the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are a lightweight 254g. Note that the XM6 have a protruding ANC mic that can touch your ear if the fit isn’t right, which can cause comfort issues for those with large ears. The AirPods Max have much deeper ear cups.

How do you control Sony WH-1000XM6?

You can control the Sony WH-1000XM6 using physical buttons on the left ear cup (ANC/passthrough button and power/pairing button) or using capacitive touch controls on the right ear cup as follows:

[table id=597 /]

How do you control Apple AirPods Max?

The AirPods Max have physical controls using the Digital Crown dial and the noise control button. You can also use Siri to easily control the AirPods Max.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Apple AirPods Max have more features?

To access all the features of the Sony WH-1000XM6, you’ll need to download the Sony Sound Connect app, available on both iOS and Android. Within the app, you’ll find a 10-band equalizer, EQ presets, advanced Bluetooth settings, toggling passthrough features like speak-to-chat and head gestures, and spatial audio via the 360 Reality Audio platform. Additionally, you can also now upmix audio through the app to emulate what it may sound like with Sony’s proprietary spatial audio solution. When it comes to customization and flexibility, the XM6 take the win, even though there is a glaring omission in the lack of USB-C passthrough for audio.

On the other hand, as we all know by now, the AirPods Max have features exclusively for Apple devices. If you have an Android phone, you shouldn’t be considering buying these headphones. Once connected to an Apple device, you’ll find a ton of great features, including Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, automatic switching between Apple devices, and Adaptive EQ. A recent firmware update also means the AirPods Max now support lossless wired playback over USB-C. While the AirPods Max offer a more seamless experience, there is little flexibility, such as a custom equalizer.

How do the Sony WH-1000XM6 and Apple AirPods Max connect?

The Sony WH-1000XM6 offer broad connectivity support via Bluetooth 5.3, including LDAC, AAC, SBC, and LC3. It also supports analog playback via the included 3.5mm TRRS cable. We found Bluetooth Multipoint works well, but you have to settle for a lower-bitrate codec.

Apple sticks with Bluetooth 5.0 and supports only AAC and SBC, with a heavy preference for AAC. If you’re deep into the Apple ecosystem, that’s fine—but Android users miss out on high-quality codec options. Wired listening is supported over USB-C, but no traditional 3.5mm aux input.

Is battery life better on the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Apple AirPods Max?

In our battery testing, the Sony WH-1000XM6 lasted 37 hours and 14 minutes. This far exceeds the 21 hours of battery life we got out of the AirPods Max. Since the AirPods Max don’t have a power off button and rely on the case or a sleep mode, you might find the battery drains faster throughout the week. That said, both are clearly capable of lasting a full day of normal use. The Sony WH-1000XM6 charge up over USB-C, as does the most recent version of the AirPods Max.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Apple AirPods Max block noise better?

The ear cup design of the Sony WH-1000XM6 lends itself to excellent passive isolation. Our testing shows that even without ANC enabled, the XM6 passively block out up to 50dB of high-frequency noise. The AirPods Max can only block up to 40dB of high-frequency noise.

On the other hand, the AirPods Max have a better active noise cancellation system. Our testing shows that the ANC can block out up to 40dB of low-frequency noise, such as the rumble of an airplane engine, whereas the XM6 only reduce low-frequency noise by up to 35dB. In total, the Sony WH-1000XM6 reduce the loudness of external noise by 87%. The AirPods Max have a slight edge, reducing the loudness of external noise by 88%.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 sound better than the Apple AirPods Max?

The Sony WH-1000XM6 and AirPods Max both have great sound quality that most people will enjoy. If you like tweaking the sound of your headphones, you’ll appreciate the custom equalizer in the Sony Sound Connect app. On the other hand, the AirPods Max with Adaptive EQ provide a default sound that most won’t have major gripes with. Both offer spatial audio features as well, if that’s something that interests you.

Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS)

Sound quality changes a bit depending upon whether the headphones think there’s a leak or not.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 and AirPods Max both score very high according to MDAQS sound quality testing. The Sony WH-1000XM6 attain a 4.8 in Timbre, which means most people won’t even feel the need to mess with the equalizer. They also attain a 4.3 in Distortion and a 4.4 in Immersiveness for an Overall score of 4.8. With the AirPods Max, we’ve seen some variation in scoring depending on firmware version and whether the leakage compensation feature is enabled, with the highest score attained at a 4.5 Overall.

What do the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores mean?

Timbre (MOS-T) represents how faithfully the headphones reproduce the frequency spectrum and temporal resolution (timing information).
Distortion (MOS-D) represents non-linearities and added noise: higher scores mean cleaner reproduction.
Immersiveness (MOS-I) represents perceived source width and positioning: how well virtual sound sources are defined in three-dimensional space.

Objective Measurements

In our frequency response measurements, we can see that the Sony WH-1000XM6 and AirPods Max both match up closely with our SoundGuys Preference Curve. The XM6 have slightly more bass out of the box. In the treble, the AirPods Max have a slight dip around 5 kHz, whereas the Sony WH-1000XM6 have a slight dip around 8 kHz. The XM6 have slightly more upper-treble extension above 10kHz.

Do the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Apple AirPods Max have a better microphone?

Sony touts AI-assisted beamforming with a six-mic array on the WH-1000XM6. In testing, it handled noise well—even wind and ambient chatter didn’t disrupt voice calls much. It consistently produced clear, intelligible audio across a variety of real-world environments.

Apple’s AirPods Max mirophones perform well, but only if the headphones are connected to an Apple device. Switch to Android or a PC, and performance can drop significantly depending on your device. That unpredictability hurts its standing for those not embedded in the Apple ecosystem.

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sony_WH-1000XM6-ideal.mp3

Apple AirPods Max microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Apple-AirPods-Max-Ideal-microphone-sample.mp3

Sony WH-1000XM6 microphone demo (Windy conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sony_WH-1000XM6-windy.mp3

Apple AirPods Max microphone demo (Windy conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Apple-AirPods-Max-Wind-microphone-sample.mp3

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Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Apple AirPods Max: Price and availability

The Sony WH-1000XM6 have a starting price of $449, whereas the AirPods Max have a more expensive starting price of $549. That said, since the AirPods Max are a few years older, you are more likely to find them on sale. Both headphones are widely available at retailers.

Should you get the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Apple AirPods Max?

You honestly can’t go wrong with either the Sony WH-1000XM6 or AirPods Max. Both are fantastic headphones, and the majority of people will be very happy no matter which they choose. As someone with an iPhone and Mac, I still give the slight edge to the AirPods Max thanks to its seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem, best-in-class ANC, and support for wired USB-C audio. On the other hand, the Sony WH-1000XM6 are a great choice for those with Android phones, thanks to the plethora of features and customization options in the Sony Sound Connect app. If you aren’t sold on either of these options, make sure to check out our breakdown of the best headphones on the market.

Nothing Ear vs Apple AirPods Pro 2

Chase Bernath — Thu, 15 May 2025 20:50:10 +0000

The latest earbuds from Nothing aim to deliver premium features at a price that undercuts the top earbuds from Apple. In this Nothing Ear vs Apple AirPods Pro 2 article, we’re finding out whether or not iPhone users should save a few bucks or stick to the tried and true.

How has this article been updated?

May 15, 2025: Updated the naming convention of the AirPods Pro 2 and added a comparison to the AirPods 4.

What’s it like to use the Nothing Ear compared to the Apple AirPods Pro 2?

You get the earbuds, charging case, three ear tips, a USB-C charging cable, and nothing else.

Nothing seems to take some inspiration from Apple when it comes to earbud design, but I’m not complaining. The Nothing Ear earbuds share a similar shape and feel as the Apple AirPods Pro 2 earbuds, and both are extremely comfortable to wear for hours at a time. Each AirPod weighs 5.3g, while each Nothing earbud only weighs 4.6g. You get four sizes of ear tips with the AirPods Pro, and three sizes of ear tips with the Nothing Ear.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 comes with ear tips, a USB cable, and a charging case.

When it comes to durability, the Nothing Ear and Apple AirPods Pro 2 are also evenly matched. For the Nothing Ear, the earbuds have an IP54 water and dust resistance rating, while the charging case has an IP55 rating. For the Apple AirPods Pro 2, both the earbuds and charging case have an IP54 rating.

How do you control the Nothing Ear and Apple AirPods Pro 2?

When it comes to controls, Nothing also takes a page out of Apple’s playbook. Both the Nothing Ear and Apple AirPods Pro 2 have pressure sensors on the stems. Squeezing the stem controls music playback, calls, and listening modes. The AirPods also support “Hey Siri” functionality and swipe controls for volume.

Nothing Ear controls

	Left earbud	Right earbud
Single pinch	Play/pause, answer/end call	Play/pause, answer/end call
Double pinch	Skip forward, decline call	Skip forward, decline call
Triple pinch	Skip back	Skip back
Pinch and hold	Noise control	Noise control

Apple AirPods Pro 2 controls

INPUT (stems)	ACTION
One press	Play/pause/answer call
Two presses	Next track
Three presses	Previous track
Press and hold	Toggle ANC/Adaptive Transparency modes
Swipe up/down	Increase/decrease volume
"Hey Siri"	Change volume, request directions, playback control, receive messages, and more

Both earbuds have ear detection which automatically pauses your music when you take an earbud out, and resume playback when you put the earbuds back on.

Should you use the apps of the Nothing Ear and Apple AirPods Pro 2?

The Nothing X app provides great customization options for the Nothing Ear. Audio enthusiasts will appreciate the advanced equalizer, which makes it easy to boost or attenuate specific frequencies. Nothing also partnered with Mimi Hearing on a hearing test feature that boosts frequencies that you may have trouble hearing otherwise. If you enjoy bass, you’ll appreciate the Bass Enhance setting, which dynamically analyzes and boosts low frequencies in real-time. You can also use the Nothing X app to install firmware updates, adjust noise canceling, and find your lost earbuds.

The iPhone Settings app and Control Center is where you go to customize the listening experience.

Apple takes a different approach to software functionality. Rather than a separate app, the AirPods controls are baked into the Apple ecosystem. If you have an Android phone, you won’t get access to any software features.

Most of the customization settings for AirPods are found within the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad. This is where you can customize controls, adjust listening modes, and take an earbud fit test. You can access some other features such as spatial audio listening from the control center on your Apple device. To find a lost earbud, you can open the Find My app on your Apple device.

How do the Nothing Ear and AirPods Pro 2 connect?

You get more connection options with the Nothing Ear.

The Nothing Ear has Bluetooth 5.3, with extensive Bluetooth codec supporting included SBC, AAC, LHDC, and LDAC. This means that the Nothing Ear is capable of very high-quality streaming with a variety of Android phones. On the other hand, we experienced some connection stutters when using the earbuds with an iPhone.

When you first pair the AirPods Pro (2nd gen) to your iPhone, you’re met with a few pop-up cards.

As expected, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 works very well with Apple devices, and we haven’t experienced any connection stutters when using the earbuds with an iPhone. Bluetooth 5.3 with AAC and SBC means the AirPods work with an Android phone, but you don’t get as high-quality streaming as the Nothing Ear.

If you have a lot of Apple devices, you will appreciate the instant pairing process to all of your devices. Once you pair AirPods to your iPhone, you can also start using them on your Macbook. The Nothing Ear has a work-around by including Bluetooth multipoint support, so you can connect to multiple devices at the same time, although you will need to pair the earbuds to each device first.

Is battery life better on the Nothing Ear or Apple AirPods Pro 2?

The USB-C input on the Nothing Ear supports fast charging.

In our battery testing, the Nothing Ear lasted 8 hours and 4 minutes of playback time on a single charge, whereas the Apple AirPods Pro 2 only lasted 5 hours and 43 minutes. The charging case of both sets of earbuds provides a few extra charges, with the Nothing Ear capable of 40 hours of total use and the Apple AirPods Pro 2 capable of up to 30 hours of total use.

You can charge either case wired over USB-C or wireless on a Qi charging mat. The Apple AirPods Pro 2 also support MagSafe and Apple Watch charging mats. The charging case of the Nothing Ear supports fast charging for 10 hours of playback time from only 10 minutes of charging. On the other hand, the AirPods Pro 2 earbuds support fast charging for 60 minutes of playback from 5 minutes of charging.

Do the Nothing Ear or Apple AirPods Pro 2 block noise better?

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 have better active noise canceling than the Nothing Ear. If you plan on frequently wearing your earbuds in a noisy environment such as on a train or in an airplane, you will appreciate how much the AirPods Pro can silence the world around you. The ANC and passive isolation of the earbuds reduce most sounds by 30dB, which reduces the loudness of most noises by 83%.

While the Nothing Ear doesn’t have quite as strong noise canceling, it is still good enough for most environments. The passive isolation and ANC of these earbuds reduce the loudness of most sounds by 71%.

If you like to stay aware of your surroundings, you’ll be happy to know that both the Nothing Ear and Apple AirPods 2 have transparency modes that amplify the sounds around you. The Apple implementation is a bit better, with an Adaptive Transparency mode that limits the loudness of sharp sounds such as passing sirens to protect your ears.

Do the Nothing Ear sound better than the Apple AirPods Pro 2?

The sound quality of the Nothing Ear is very similar to the Apple AirPods Pro 2. The main differentiation between the two is in the ability to customize the sound.

Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS)

The chart below shows how the sound of the Nothing Ear and Apple AirPods Pro 2 was assessed by the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD acoustics.

Both sets of earbuds score exceptionally well according to a simulated panel of listeners. This means that most people will enjoy how the Nothing Ear and Apple AirPods Pro 2 sound out of the box.

What do the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores mean?

Timbre (MOS-T) represents how faithfully the earbuds reproduce the frequency spectrum and temporal resolution (timing information).

Distortion (MOS-D) represents non-linearities and added noise: higher scores mean cleaner reproduction.

Immersiveness (MOS-I) represents perceived source width and positioning: how well virtual sound sources are defined in three-dimensional space.

See here for an explanation of MDAQS, how it works, and how it was developed.

Reviewer’s notes

Editor’s note: this review uses a hover-enabled glossary to describe sound quality based on a consensus vocabulary. You can read about it here.

We enjoy the sound quality of both the Nothing Ear and the Apple AirPods Pro 2. Both earbuds have great detail and clarity, and most people will enjoy the balance between the lows, mids, and highs out of the box.

Which earbud you like the sound of more will probably come down to the sound features that they offer. The Apple AirPods Pro 2 has an Adaptive EQ, which tailors the sound to the shape of your ear canal. That said, there’s no native EQ support to adjust specific frequencies to your liking. Therefore, advanced users will probably prefer the customization afforded by the Nothing Ear. On the other hand, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 have native head tracking and spatial audio support, whereas the Nothing Ear do not.

Objective Measurements

The chart above compares the frequency response of the Apple AirPods Pro 2 and the Nothing Ear alongside the SoundGuys headphone preference curve. You’ll notice that the default frequency response of the Nothing Ear has more of an emphasis on low and high frequencies, with a dip in the mids around 500Hz. That said, you can easily adjust the sound of the Nothing Ear to your liking using the advanced equalizer.

Do the Nothing Ear or Apple AirPods Pro 2 have a better microphone?

Both the Nothing Ear and Apple AirPods Pro 2 both have very good microphones for taking calls on the go. Compared to most wireless earbuds, these microphones have great background noise rejection. In most environments, the person on the other end of the line shouldn’t have a problem understanding what you are saying.

Nothing Ear microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Nothing-Ear_Ideal-microphone-sample.mp3

Apple AirPods Pro 2 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Apple-AirPods-Pro-G2-2023-_Ideal-microphone-sample.mp3

Nothing Ear microphone demo (Street conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Nothing-EarA_Street-microphone-sample.mp3

Apple AirPods Pro 2 microphone demo (Street conditions):

https://sgatlas.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Apple-AirPods-Pro-G2-2023-_Street-microphone-sample.mp3

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Nothing Ear vs Apple AirPods 2: Price and availability

The Nothing Ear is available now for . The Apple AirPods Pro 2 is available for . While the Apple AirPods Pro 2 are more expensive, you may be able to find them on sale since they are a few years older than the Nothing Ear.

Should you get the Nothing Ear or Apple AirPods 2?

Apple users can’t go wrong with either choice.

If you are an Android user, then of course you should go for the Nothing Ear. For iPhone users, the choice is a bit more challenging.

Across the board, the Nothing Ear and Apple AirPods Pro 2 are both great wireless earbuds. If you are deep in the Apple ecosystem already and you don’t mind the higher price, I would still recommend the Apple AirPods Pro 2. On the other hand, if you are an audiophile that wants to fine tune the sound quality of their earbuds, or if you’re just looking for the best bang for your buck, then go with the Nothing Ear.

Frequently asked questions

What about the Nothing Ear vs the Apple AirPods 4?

We tend to stray away from recommending the regular Apple AirPods 4 due to their lack of ear tips. Many people will struggle to get a good fit with the regular AirPods, and even if you do, you don’t get a seal to protect you from environmental noise. You can consider upgrading to the AirPods 4 with ANC, but at that point, you might as well just get the AirPods Pro 2 on sale.

Should I get the Nothing Ear (a) instead of the Nothing Ear?

While the Nothing Ear (a) is cheaper, it makes some sacrifices in sound quality. If you don’t mind the slightly worse sound quality, it is a great value buy.

Audio Versus articles - SoundGuys

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

How has this article been updated?

What’s it like to use the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro compared to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

How do you control the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro controls:

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds controls:

Should you use the apps of either Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

How do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds connect?

Is battery life better on the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds block noise better?

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Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have a better microphone?

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro microphone demo (Windy conditions):

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Windy conditions):

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds: Price and availability

Should you get the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

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Frequently asked questions

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Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Bose QuietComfort Ultra come with extra ear tips?

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Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Apple AirPods Pro 2: Battle of the stem design

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Objective Measurements

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Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Apple AirPods Pro 2 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro microphone demo (Office conditions):

Apple AirPods Pro 2 microphone demo (Office conditions):

Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro vs Apple AirPods Pro 2: Price and availability

Should you get the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro or Apple AirPods Pro 2?

Frequently asked questions

Are the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 waterproof?

Do the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro and Apple AirPods Pro 2 work with iPhone and Android?

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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Ideal conditions):

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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Street conditions):

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