Reddit
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r/headphones on Reddit: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 Initial Thoughts (Driftwood Sand)
September 21, 2025 -
After six years, I’ve just upgraded from the XM3s after trying out the XM4,5,6 in store and borrowing a friend’s Ultra Gen 1.
The driftwood sand colour is beautiful, isn’t nearly as pink as I thought it would be based on the photos.
Comfort: I’d say these are the most comfortable I’ve ever worn, slightly beating out the Ultra Gen 1. Noticeably weaker clamping force than all the Sonys. The comfort was night and day between this and the Sony XM6, and this is the biggest reason I went with the Ultra Gen 2.
Sound Quality: didn’t sound perfect out of the box on all songs, I’m no audiophile and am still playing around with the EQ. Sounded great on vocal tracks however EDM and bass heavy pop sounded a bit muddy for my taste. Some tracks sound wonderful and some still need a bit of tweaking. For now I think the sound isn’t clearly better than the Ultra Gen 1 or the XM6. But also not clearly worse. Need more time to test this category. Lossless audio over USC is one of the main reasons I bought these over the XM6 alongside comfort so will be looking forward to testing that.
Looks: Love this colour, case and overall design. The shiny bands look really good in person at least on this sand colour. Feels alright, doesn’t attract as many fingerprints as expected.
ANC: not in depth testing but my initial thoughts were that the ANC is significantly better than my old XM3 which isn’t surprising. Seems to be slightly better than the Ultra Gen 1 and on par with XM6.
Cons: Personally really hoped the Bose app would have 5 band EQ instead of just 3. The controls and buttons are lacking compared to Sony XM6.
Overall, happy with spending $699 AUD on these for my birthday after 6-7 years on the XM3. Let’s hope we get some good reviews on sound quality and ANC from actual audiophiles soon.
Top answer 1 of 5
4
Why do you think they edge out the Gen 1? They appear identical? I’m still somewhat disappointed that my QC45’s are more comfortable than my Gen 1 Ultra’s. But they both outclass every other manufacturer of ANC headphones when it comes to comfort.
2 of 5
3
Do they still have a tremendous ANC noise floor/hiss? I'm surprised Bose didn't advertise this release at all, your post is the first I'm hearing of it.
Impulse Gamer
impulsegamer.com › bose-quietcomfort-ultra-noise-cancelling-headphones-gen-2-review-driftwood-sand
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Noise Cancelling Headphones (Gen 2) Review (Driftwood Sand) - Impulse Gamer
October 15, 2025 - Sure, it’s pricey; however, if you’re looking for one of the clearest audio experiences, it’s hard to look past the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2, and the Driftwood Sand colour is utterly delightful!
Videos
Unboxing the new @bose QC Ultra 2nd Gen! #bose #gifted ...
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Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones | Unboxing & Review ...
🎧 Say hey to the new Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen), released today, Oct 2 👀 Same legendary comfort + noise cancellation, but now with: ⚡️ USB-C source, making it compatible with laptop, phone, or gaming desktop 🎬 Immersive Audio Cinema Mode (movies, podcasts, audiobooks = 🤌) 🙌 Smarter on-head detection + flat-lay auto disconnect 🔋 Up to 30 hrs of battery (and charge while listening!) I am wearing the limited edition Driftwood Sand color! #bose #boseheadphones #headphones #headphones🎧 #noisecancellingheadphones @Bose | TikTok
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RTINGS
rtings.com › home › headphones › reviews › bose › quietcomfort ultra headphones (2nd gen)
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) Review - RTINGS.com
October 30, 2025 - The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) are the 2025 follow-up to the original Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Wireless from 2023. Rather than reinve...
Amazon
amazon.com › Bose-QuietComfort-Bluetooth-Headphones-Cancelling › dp › B0FDKQ2FG6
Amazon.com: Bose New QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones (2nd Gen), Wireless Headphones with Spatial Audio, Over Ear Noise Cancelling with Mic, Up to 30 Hours of Play time, Driftwood Sand - Limited Edition : Electronics
The earcups gently hug your ears, and the headband evenly distributes pressure while sleek, polished metal arms add a stylish touch. Easily pair two devices simultaneously with Bluetooth multipoint connectivity and keep track of what you have ...
What Hi-Fi?
whathifi.com › headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) review: the best Bose ANC headphones to date | What Hi-Fi?
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) review
Bose fixes the original Ultra’s flaws while furthering their strengths, but is that enough?
PCMAG
pcmag.com › home › reviews › audio › headphones
The New Bose Noise-Cancelling Headphones Sound Great, But Sony's Still Sound Better | PCMag
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
The second-generation Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones produce enjoyable audio, effectively cancel noise, and last longer than the previous model, but fall just short of beating the competition.
What Hi-Fi?
whathifi.com › headphones › wireless headphones
Bose QC Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) vs Bose QC Ultra Headphones (1st Gen): which headphones are better? | What Hi-Fi?
September 16, 2025 - Bluetooth: SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive ... has improved almost every aspect of the originals: they look classier, sound better and have even more effective noise cancellation....
Engadget
engadget.com › engadget us › audio › headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd gen) review: Impactful upgrades to a familiar formula
Bose New QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones (2nd gen)
The best noise-canceling headphones are even better with improved ANC, enhanced sound and more efficient power usage. Bose New QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones (2nd Gen), Wireless Headphones with Spatial Audio, Over Ear Noise Cancelling with Mic, Up to 30 Hours of Play time, Black
Wifi Hifi Magazine
wifihifi.com › wifi hifi magazine › daily news › audio › bose quietcomfort ultra 2nd gen headphones review: unmatched noise cancelling
Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen Headphones Review
1 month ago - The exterior has also been redesigned with polished metal materials and new colours, including Black, Smoke White, or the limited edition finishes Driftwood Sand and Midnight Violet. The polished metal yokes are complemented by the soft plush ear cushions. An adjustable head band provides a lightweight fit and secure seal. Control and customize the headphones using the Bose app, including accessing custom listening modes, EQ adjustment, Bluetooth, ANC control, and shortcut customization.
Business Insider
businessinsider.com › reviews › tech › we put bose's latest flagship headphones to the test. here's what's new and how they stack up.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) Review
October 16, 2025 - Although they're only a minor revision over the first-gen model, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) are among the best headphones available. They feature strong, deep bass as well as extreme clarity and presence.
Crutchfield
crutchfield.com › home › headphones & wireless › headphones › wireless bluetooth headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) (Driftwood Sand) Over-ear wireless noise-cancelling headphones at Crutchfield
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
Over-ear wireless noise-cancelling headphones (Driftwood Sand)
Price US$399.00
Best Buy
bestbuy.com › best buy › all headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) Driftwood Sand 890101-0500 - Best Buy
1 month ago - Shop Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) Driftwood Sand products at Best Buy. Find low everyday prices and buy online for delivery or in-store pick-up. Price Match Guarantee.
Target
target.com › p › bose-quietcomfort-ultra-headphones-2nd-gen-driftwood-sand › - › A-94878977
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Active Noise Cancelling Headphones (2nd Gen) - Driftwood Sand : Target
Shop all Bose · 4.8 out of 5 stars with 187 reviews · 1874 Questions · ColorDriftwood Sand · Black · Desert Gold · Driftwood Sand · Midnight Violet · White · Pickup · Delivery · Shipping · Add to cart · Free & easy returnsReturn this item in store within 30 days for a full refund.
Digital Trends
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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) review: the noise-canceling champs keep their crown - Digital Trends
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
The sequels to Bose's flagship Ultra headphones bring the fight to Sony, Apple and B&W.
The Telegraph
telegraph.co.uk › recommended › tech › reviews › bose-quietcomfort-ultra-2-headphones-review
Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 review: The noise cancelling headphones I’m going to take on holiday
They’re also available in two new limited-edition colours, Driftwood Sand (pictured) and Midnight Violet. The Boses cost £50 more at launch, with a classier design, wired listening over USB-C as well as customisable ANC. They match the Sonys for battery life with ANC on (30 hours), although they offer five more hours with ANC off (45 hours). While the Boses support aptX Adaptive Bluetooth (as opposed to the Sonys’ LDAC codec), the Sonys also support next-gen Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast.
Stuff
stuff.tv › reviews › audio › headphones › the bose quietcomfort ultra headphones gen 2 aren’t flawless – but are still my new top pick for travel
The Bose Quietcomfort Ultra Headphones Gen 2 aren't flawless - but are still my new top pick for travel | Stuff
September 27, 2025 - My White Smoke review unit also seemed to scuff with little effort, even if the soft touch plastic ear cups cleaned up just as easily. I’ve not seen the Black (or limited-run Driftwood Sand or Midnight Violet shades) in person to see if they hold up any better.
Reddit
reddit.com › r/bose › got my qc ultra 2 in driftwood sand
r/bose on Reddit: Got my QC Ultra 2 in Driftwood Sand
August 9, 2025 -
Love the new color!
Ordered from the Canadian store; it shipped yesterday and arrived today.
This is my first pair of Bose headphones since the QC15, so I can’t compare to the more recent models, but to my ears they sound phenomenal, and they’re much more comfortable than my AirPods Max.
Reddit
reddit.com › r/bose › for those who have the quietcomfort ultra gen 2 headphones how are you liking them?
r/bose on Reddit: For Those who have the Quietcomfort Ultra Gen 2 Headphones how are you liking them?
October 2, 2025 -
I live in the US and haven’t received them early like other reviewers have. I was just curious for those who have them.
Top answer 1 of 22
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I recently got my QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) after having Gen 1s for a while. I primarily use them around the house from my Windows PC for work (on the go from my iPhone/MacBook I tend to use AirPods for the portability). ANC One thing I'd really like to list as a big pro is the ANC hissing is gone. I'd say "like to" because it comes back as soon as audio plays, and takes a few seconds afterward to quiet back down. I think I'll get used to this... and it is nice when you have them on for long periods with nothing playing... but I'm not ready to declare the ANC hiss problem fully solved yet either. Overall though, the ANC seems better for this type of "work from home" use case, albeit not perfected. The ANC is adjustable, and you can turn it all the way off, but I'm not sure I'd bother with these headphones anyways if that's your use case. If you have a particular reason to care though, it is there and adjusts fine. USB C On the audio side there is also another think I'd like to list as a big pro: the USB C audio. God bless it's finally here (and the headset doesn't just assume it should turn off when you plug it in to charge even if you had wired analog audio playing when you did like on the Gen 1s...). On the downside, there is something odd about it where I have to set the volume of the headset in Windows to 6/100 in USB C mode to be as loud as 20/100 in Bluetooth mode. In both modes swiping the volume on the headphones changes the volume in Windows, and both are digital connections, so I'm not sure why there is a difference (or why they are so fucking loud in USB C mode that I have to lose all granularity in my Windows volume. Microphone For another downside, they finally listened that USB C should carry audio... but they didn't bother making the headphones work as a microphone in this situation. This is really lazy to me, and means I have to have a charging USB C cable separate from the USB C cable I'd use for audio (gaming latency/audio quality after work) because plugging in the USB C cable connected to the computer during work would not only charge the headphones, but drop the microphone completely. Windows added support of Super Wideband Bluetooth LE audio recently, but these don't support LE. That means if you connect to Windows with a normal Bluetooth adapter you lose a ton of audio quality when the microphone is active. This just goes to show how big of a shitshow Bluetooth still is in this use case, and why USB C still not having the microphone sent back is such an annoyance. Fit Overall, I find this a bit more snug and comfy than the Gen 1s. This may come down to personal preference though. I don't think the average person will really care one way or the other. Overall Overall, I needed another headset in the household anyways. Otherwise I probably wouldn't have bothered. It is better than the previous generation in many ways, but often in "monkey's paw" type fashion. I'd still recommend them - QC Ultras are among the best in noise cancelling regardless of the version, but, for my use case of just wanting good noise cancelling on work for home, I'd still give them a B (the same I gave the gen 1), albeit maybe a B+ now.
2 of 22
5
Got them last week. Loving it so far! I returned my recently purchased Gen1s and got these instead. Impressed with how fast it powers on when I put it on.
Pocket Tactics
pockettactics.com › bose-ultra-headphones-2nd-gen-review
Bose Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen review - headset luxury that's great for gaming
Bose Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen review - headset luxury that's great for gaming
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen are as expensive as their name is long, but they're a great option for both gaming and music. Despite a few design missteps, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen are some of the most impressive headphones on the market, allowing you to listen to your music with a full, rich soundstage and hear the impact of bullets in your favorite FPS titles. USB-C audio passthrough means that you can have lossless sound with low latency, and despite a high price, I can’t recommend them enough.
T3
t3.com › tech › audio › headphones
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2 review: an ANC step backwards
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2 review: an ANC step backwards
Bose's second-gen QC Ultra Headphones make the originals worth tracking down