AirPods vs Bose – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

AirPods Pro 2 vs Bose Earbuds 2 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the AirPods Pro 2 rather than the Bose Earbuds 2. 

Why Do I Recommend The AirPods Pro 2

  • The AirPods Pro 2 is powered by an advanced H2 chip for delivering superior audio processing, better noise cancellation, and longer battery efficiency compared to the Bose’s custom processor.
  • AirPods Pro 2 features Adaptive Transparency mode, which intelligently reduces sudden loud sounds like sirens or construction noise while still letting ambient sound through compared to Bose’s Aware Mode.
  • It supports Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for a deep immersive surround-sound experience, while Bose lacks any form of spatial audio support.
  • The AirPods Pro 2 includes a MagSafe and Qi wireless charging case for multiple charging options, better convenience, while the Bose case only supports USB-C charging.
  • AirPods Pro 2 has Precision Finding with U1 chip via the Find My app to locate the exact position of the case with directional guidance, while Bose’s app lacks this level of tracking accuracy.
  • It includes volume control via touch swipe on the stem for on-the-go adjustments, while Bose lacks volume swipe gestures & relying solely on tap-based commands.
  • The AirPods Pro 2 has hands-free “Hey Siri” voice activation to control music, calls, and more without touching their earbuds, whereas Bose requires manual activation through the device.
  • The AirPods Pro 2 case is IPX4 water-resistant, which can handle sweat and splashes, while Bose’s case is not water-resistant.

Maybe the Bose Earbuds 2 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the AirPods Pro 2. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureAirPods Pro 2Bose Earbuds 2
ManufacturerAppleBose
ChipsetApple H2 chipCustom Bose processor
Platform OptimizationApple ecosystemCross-platform
Audio PersonalizationPersonalized Spatial AudioCustomTune audio calibration
ANC TechnologyAdaptive ANCAdvanced adjustable ANC
Transparency ModeAdaptive TransparencyAware Mode with ActiveSense
Voice AssistantSiriDevice-based: Google Assistant, Siri
ControlsTouch controls with volume swipeTap controls, no swipe
EQ CustomizationNo native EQApp-based EQ customization
Ear Tip Fit TestiOS SettingsBose Music app
Battery Life (Total)30 hours with case24 hours with case
Charging Case SupportMagSafe, Qi, Lightning, USB-CUSB-C only
Water Resistance (Case)IPX4Not water resistant
Find My SupportApple Find My with U1 chipBose Music app-based
Case DesignCompact, roundedLarger, rectangular
Bud DesignStem-styleNo stem
Size (Earbuds)SmallerLarger
Weight (Each Earbud)5.3g6.2g
Weight (Case)~50.8g~60g
Color OptionsWhite onlyTriple Black, Soapstone
App RequirementOptional for updatesRequired for setup and customization
Wireless ChargingYesNo
Spatial Audio SupportYesNo
PriceCheck AirPods Pro 2 PriceCheck Bos Earbuds 2 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Both earbuds feature ANC technology, allowing users to minimize ambient sounds for an immersive listening experience.
  • Transparency Mode: Each model offers a transparency mode, enabling users to hear their surroundings without removing the earbuds.
  • Bluetooth 5.3: Both earbuds support Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring efficient power usage, stronger connectivity, and reduced audio latency.
  • Battery Life (Earbuds): Both provide up to 6 hours of playback time with ANC enabled, delivering extended use for daily routines or commutes.
  • In-Ear Fit with Silicone Tips: Each includes multiple silicone ear tip sizes to help users achieve a secure and comfortable fit for optimal sound and passive noise isolation.
  • Water Resistance (IPX4): Both earbuds are rated IPX4, making them resistant to sweat and light splashes, suitable for workouts or light rain conditions.
  • Touch Controls: Both models include touch-sensitive controls on the earbuds, allowing users to manage music playback, calls, and modes without reaching for their phone.
  • Voice Assistant Support: Each pair supports voice assistants—AirPods Pro with Siri, and Bose with Siri or Google Assistant—providing hands-free control and quick access to information.
  • Fit Test Capability: Both offer an ear tip fit test to confirm a proper seal in the ear canal, which enhances both sound quality and noise cancellation effectiveness.
  • Charging Case Included: Each model comes with a compact charging case that extends total battery life and offers convenient charging on the go.
  • Custom Audio Tuning: Both support personalized audio calibration—AirPods Pro with Personalized Spatial Audio and Bose with CustomTune—to enhance sound tailored to the user’s ears.
  • Single-Bud Use: Both earbuds can be used independently, allowing users to wear one earbud at a time while keeping the other in the case.
  • Automatic Ear Detection: Each model detects when the earbuds are placed in or removed from the ears, automatically pausing or resuming playback for convenience.
  • App Integration: AirPods integrate with iOS settings, while Bose uses the Bose Music app—both providing options to adjust features and receive firmware updates.
  • Fast Pairing: Both support fast pairing with their respective platforms, making initial setup and device switching smooth and efficient.
  • Microphones for Calls: Each uses beamforming microphones to isolate the user’s voice and reduce background noise for clear call quality.
  • USB-C Charging (Supported): Both earbuds support USB-C charging (AirPods Pro with USB-C model), offering fast and widely compatible recharging options.
  • Firmware Updates: Both support over-the-air firmware updates, enabling performance improvements and feature enhancements over time.

Common Features

FeatureAirPods Pro 2Bose Earbuds 2
Form FactorTrue wireless in-ear earbudsTrue wireless in-ear earbuds
Active Noise CancellationYesYes
Transparency ModeYesYes
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.3Bluetooth 5.3
Battery Life (Earbuds)Up to 6 hours with ANCUp to 6 hours with ANC
In-Ear FitMultiple silicone ear tip sizes includedMultiple silicone ear tip sizes included
Sweat & Water ResistanceIPX4IPX4
Touch ControlsYesYes
Voice Assistant SupportYesYes
Noise Calibration TestYesYes
Charging Case ProvidedYesYes
Custom Audio TuningYesYes
Single-Bud UseYesYes
Automatic Ear DetectionYesYes
Companion AppYesYes
Fast PairingYesYes
Microphones for CallsYesYes
Charging MethodCase-based USB-C supportedCase-based USB-C supported
Over-the-Air UpdatesYesYes
Price Check AirPods Pro 2 Price Check Bose Earbuds 2 Price

FAQ

Which earbuds have better noise cancellation, AirPods Pro 2 or Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II?
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II are widely considered to have stronger active noise cancellation compared to the AirPods Pro 2. Bose uses advanced adjustable ANC that adapts extremely well to various environments.

Do both models support transparency mode?
Yes, both models feature a transparency mode. The AirPods Pro 2 offer Adaptive Transparency, which automatically lowers loud environmental sounds, while Bose has Aware Mode with ActiveSense to let in outside audio while reducing harsh noises.

Are these earbuds water-resistant?
Both the AirPods Pro 2 and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II have an IPX4 rating, which means they are resistant to sweat and light splashes. However, only the AirPods Pro 2’s charging case is also IPX4-rated.

Can I use either model with an Android phone?
Yes, both models can be used with Android phones, but AirPods Pro 2 are optimized for Apple devices and may lack full functionality on Android. The Bose earbuds offer better cross-platform support and have a companion app for Android users.

Do they support wireless charging?
The AirPods Pro 2 support wireless charging through MagSafe, Qi, and USB-C (USB-C model). The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II do not support wireless charging and rely solely on USB-C.

Is there an app for customization?
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II use the Bose Music app for setup, firmware updates, EQ adjustments, and ANC control. AirPods Pro 2 settings are managed through iOS settings, and while limited in EQ, they include features like Personalized Spatial Audio.

How long does the battery last on a single charge?
Both models offer up to 6 hours of playback with ANC enabled. However, AirPods Pro 2 provide up to 30 hours of total battery life with the case, compared to 24 hours with the Bose case.

Can I use just one earbud at a time?
Yes, both the AirPods Pro 2 and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II support single-earbud usage. You can use either the left or right earbud independently for calls or listening.

Do they have touch or gesture controls?
Both earbuds include on-device controls. The AirPods Pro 2 feature touch controls with volume swipe, while the Bose earbuds offer tap-based controls, although they lack swipe gestures for volume.

Which earbuds are more compact and portable?
The AirPods Pro 2 are smaller and have a more pocket-friendly case. The Bose earbuds are slightly bulkier, and the case is larger, which may be less convenient for some users.

Do both models offer voice assistant support?
Yes, both support voice assistants. The AirPods Pro 2 offer hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality, while the Bose earbuds support Siri or Google Assistant depending on your connected device.

Can they automatically detect when they’re in your ears?
Yes, both earbuds feature automatic ear detection. They pause playback when removed from the ears and resume when reinserted, enhancing convenience and battery efficiency.

Are firmware updates available for both?
Yes, both the AirPods Pro 2 and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II receive over-the-air firmware updates. These updates can include performance improvements and new features.

Do they support spatial or 3D audio experiences?
AirPods Pro 2 support Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for immersive listening, especially when used with Apple devices. The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II do not offer spatial audio but do provide rich stereo sound.

Which one should I choose for better customization options?
If you value EQ adjustments and fine control over ANC levels, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II offer more options through their app. If you are deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem and prefer seamless integration, the AirPods Pro 2 may be a better fit.

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