If you want the best noise-cancelling headphones, the choice in 2026 comes down to two pairs: Sony's WH-1000XM6 and Bose's QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen). They cost almost exactly the same at list price, $449.99 and $449. Both are routinely sold for much less. Today the Sony is $319.99 and the Bose $279 new on eBay.
Prices right now
| Product | List price | Lowest new price now | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-1000XM6 | $449.99 | $319.99 | See it on eBay |
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) | $449 | $279 | See it on eBay |
Lowest price for a new, sealed unit from a US eBay seller with 98%+ positive feedback, shipping included, before sales tax. Prices checked 1 hour ago. As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.
Headphones lose value faster than almost any other tech, so paying list price is rarely necessary. Click a product to see how its lowest new price moved over the last weeks.
Side by side
| Sony WH-1000XM6 | Bose QC Ultra (2nd Gen) | |
|---|---|---|
| List price | $449.99 | $449 |
| Battery, noise cancelling on | Up to 30 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Quick charge | 3 min for about 3 hours | Play while charging over USB-C |
| Hi-res Bluetooth codec (Android) | LDAC | aptX Adaptive |
| Wired listening | Audio cable included | Audio cable included, plus USB-C audio |
| Connect two devices at once | Yes | Yes |
| Folds | Yes | Yes |
Noise cancelling
This is a close race. Sony's XM6 uses 12 microphones and the new QN3 processor, which adjusts the noise cancelling to your surroundings in real time. Bose built its name on blocking the low hum of planes and trains, and the QC Ultra continues that. Reviews disagree on a winner, and the difference is small enough that the fit on your head, which affects how well outside sound is sealed off, matters as much.
Sound and features
Sony gives you a detailed equalizer, sound modes and many settings in its Sound Connect app. The sound is balanced and detailed, and you can push the bass up if you like. Bose sounds warm and full out of the box, adjusts itself to your ears with CustomTune, and adds Immersive Audio for a more spacious sound, including a Cinema mode for movies. You can listen over USB-C, which is handy for laptops and phones without a headphone jack.
Comfort and design
Bose headphones are known for their soft, light fit, and many frequent flyers choose them for long trips. The Sony XM6 is also comfortable and adds a folding hinge again, so it packs smaller than its predecessor. If you can, try both on in a store. Comfort is personal, and it decides whether you wear them for hours.
Who should buy which
- Sony WH-1000XM6: Android users who want LDAC, people who like to tweak sound, commuters who value fast charging and a compact case.
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen): frequent flyers, people who wear headphones all day, and anyone who wants great sound without adjusting settings.
- Either: if you just want the best noise cancelling for less, buy whichever is cheaper today. Both are excellent.
Buying new headphones on eBay
- We only show listings marked as new from US sellers with at least 98% positive feedback. Refurbished, open-box and look-alike listings are filtered out.
- Check the model name in the title: the older Sony WH-1000XM5 and the first-generation Bose QC Ultra look similar and cost less, but they are not the same headphones.
- Pay through eBay checkout so eBay's Money Back Guarantee applies, and check the return policy.
Frequently asked questions
Which has better noise cancelling, Sony or Bose?
Both are at the top of the market, and independent reviews are split on which blocks more noise. Bose has long been known for blocking low rumble like engines very well; Sony's XM6 uses 12 microphones and a new processor and is excellent with voices and changing noise. For most people the difference is smaller than the difference in fit and comfort.
How long does the battery last?
Both are rated for up to 30 hours with noise cancelling on. The Sony gets about 3 hours of playback from a 3-minute charge. The Bose can play while charging over USB-C.
Which is better for iPhone users?
Both work well with an iPhone over Bluetooth using the AAC codec. Sony's LDAC and Bose's aptX Adaptive high-quality codecs only work with supported Android phones. If you are fully in Apple's world, AirPods Max are an alternative with automatic device switching, but they cost more.
Do these headphones go on sale?
Yes, often. Premium headphones drop below list price faster than most tech. On eBay, new and sealed pairs of both models regularly sell for $100 or more below list. Our table shows today's lowest price and links to the price history of each.
Do they fold?
Yes. The XM6 brought back a folding design, so it fits in a smaller case than the XM5. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra also folds into its carrying case.
Specs checked against Sony's and Bose's US product pages on November 4, 2026. Found something out of date? Let us know.
