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Best alternatives to the Bose QuietComfort Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Headphones is already among the best we've found; the Apple AirPods Pro 3 comes closest.
The verdict in 10 seconds
Strongest all-rounder
Apple AirPods Pro 3Superb noise blocking and comfort, best enjoyed with an iPhoneSuits you if
- You use an iPhone and other Apple devices
- You commute, travel, or work somewhere loud and want real quiet
Most dependable
Sony WF-1000XM5Superb sound and strong quiet, as long as they fit youSuits you if
- You commute or fly often and want the drone of engines and traffic quieted
- Sound quality matters most to you and you like adjusting the sound in an app
Easiest to live with
Sennheiser Momentum 4 WirelessSuperb battery and comfort, rich sound, but noise cancelling isn't class-bestSuits you if
- You want long listening sessions and rarely want to think about charging
- You care most about rich, balanced sound you can tweak to taste
The short version
If the Bose QuietComfort Headphones isn't quite right, start with the Apple AirPods Pro 3: it suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices. The Bose QuietComfort Headphones is still a great fit if you want headphones comfortable enough to forget you're wearing them.
We researched 142 expert reviews, analyzed 237,040 owner ratings and comments across 30 sources for 13 noise cancelling headphones, and cross-checked them into one verdict, so you don't have to.
Quick answers
What is the best alternative to the Bose QuietComfort Headphones?
The Apple AirPods Pro 3. It suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices.
Based on: Product Review score 82 vs 79 for the Bose QuietComfort Headphones, across 12 alternatives.Is there a more reliable alternative to the Bose QuietComfort Headphones?
Yes, the Sony WF-1000XM5. It's less likely to give you trouble.
Based on: Reliability 81 for the Sony WF-1000XM5 vs 71.What is the best alternative to the Bose QuietComfort Headphones from another brand?
The Apple AirPods Pro 3. It suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices.
Based on: Highest-scoring model not made by Bose (82).Is there a cheaper alternative to the Bose QuietComfort Headphones?
Yes, the Apple AirPods Pro 3. It usually costs less and suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices.
Based on: Typical prices: Bose QuietComfort Headphones $299–$370; Apple AirPods Pro 3 $179–$249.Every alternative, ranked
How each one compares with the Bose QuietComfort Headphones- 01
EXPOWNREL82Apple AirPods Pro 3
Superb noise blocking and comfort, best enjoyed with an iPhone
- 02
EXPOWNREL81Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Best-in-class quiet in a bulky earbud with only average battery life
Higher score (+2)Experts rate it higherAlso BoseBose QuietComfort Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds → - 03
EXPOWNREL79Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro
Excellent sound and quiet, at their best with a Samsung phone
Experts rate it higherBose QuietComfort Headphones vs Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro → - 04EXPOWNREL79
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Superb battery and comfort, rich sound, but noise cancelling isn't class-best
Happier ownersExperts rate it higherBose QuietComfort Headphones vs Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless → - 05EXPOWNREL79
Sony WF-1000XM5
Superb sound and strong quiet, as long as they fit you
- 06
EXPOWNREL79Soundcore Sleep A30
Tiny, comfortable sleep earbuds that quiet snoring well, but pricey
- 07
EXPOWNREL78Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Superb noise blocking and all-day comfort, at a premium price
- 08
EXPOWNREL78Sony WH-1000XM6
Superb noise cancelling and rich sound, with a snug fit and premium price
Experts rate it higherBose QuietComfort Headphones vs Sony WH-1000XM6 → - 09
EXPOWNREL75Sony WH-1000XM5
Superb noise cancelling and sound, with comfort and durability caveats
Experts rate it higherBose QuietComfort Headphones vs Sony WH-1000XM5 → - 10
EXPOWNREL73Apple AirPods Max
Superb sound and quiet for Apple fans, if you can handle the weight
Experts rate it higherBose QuietComfort Headphones vs Apple AirPods Max → - 11
EXPOWNREL68Sonos Ace
Supremely comfortable, strong noise cancelling, with some software quirks
Different trade-offsBose QuietComfort Headphones vs Sonos Ace → - 12
EXPOWNREL65Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro
Strong noise cancelling and loads of features, but durability worries
Different trade-offsBose QuietComfort Headphones vs Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro →