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Apple vs Bose
Too close to call: it comes down to the model.
The verdict in 10 seconds
Best Apple
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
- You take lots of calls or want workout tracking without a watch
Best Bose
Bose QuietComfort Ultra EarbudsBest-in-class quiet in a bulky earbud with only average battery lifeSuits you if
- You commute or fly often and want the quietest earbuds you can get
- You like a rich, bass-forward sound
- You have medium to large ears and want a secure, stable fit
The short version
Brand for brand, Apple and Bose are closely matched. The best single model of the two is the Apple AirPods Pro 3, which suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices.
We researched 62 expert reviews, analyzed 107,549 owner ratings and comments across 26 sources for every Apple and Bose model we cover, and cross-checked them into one verdict, so you don't have to.
See the evidence
Brand scoreboardAverage score 78 vs 79 · reliability 56 vs 66
| Apple | Bose | |
|---|---|---|
| Product Review score | 78 | 79 |
| Experts | 88 | 85 |
| Owners | 78 | 79 |
| Reliability | 56 | 66 |
| Models scored | 2 | 3 |
| Most reliable model | Apple AirPods Pro 3 | Bose QuietComfort Headphones |
Averages across scored models. ● marks the better number on each row.
Quick answers
Which is better, Apple or Bose?
Neither, clearly. Choose the model, not the brand.
Based on: Average Product Review score 78 for Apple vs 79 for Bose.Which brand is more reliable, Apple or Bose?
Bose. Its models are less likely to give you trouble.
Based on: Average reliability 56 vs 66.What is the best Apple noise cancelling headphones?
The Apple AirPods Pro 3. It suits you if you use an iPhone and other Apple devices.
Based on: Highest Product Review score among Apple models (82).What is the best Bose noise cancelling headphones?
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. It suits you if you commute or fly often and want the quietest earbuds you can get.
Based on: Highest Product Review score among Bose models (81).