Bose Ultra Headphones and Sony WH-1000XM6 are the two best noise-cancelling over-ear headphones of 2026. Both deliver world-class ANC and premium audio, but with different strengths. We compare every spec that matters for buyers making the $349-$400 decision.
Bose Ultra vs Sony XM6: Spec Sheet
Sony XM6 Wins On
- Battery life — 30h vs 24h; Sony lasts 25% longer per charge
- LDAC codec — lossless-quality Bluetooth for audiophiles with LDAC sources
- Foldable for travel — Sony folds flat into a slim case; Bose does not fold
- $50 cheaper — $349 vs $399
- Auto NC Optimizer — adapts ANC in real time to your environment and glasses
Bose Ultra Wins On
- Immersive Audio — Bose's 3D spatial audio places sound around you more convincingly than Sony's 360 RA for casual listeners
- Comfort over long sessions — Bose's earcup design is widely considered more comfortable for 4+ hour listening sessions
- CustomTune calibration — auto-tunes sound specifically for the shape of your ears on each use
Shop Both
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bose Ultra better than Sony XM6 for ANC?
Both are within 5% of each other in RTINGS.com ANC tests. Bose tends to perform slightly better on airplane noise; Sony XM6 adapts better to varied environments via Auto NC Optimizer.
Which headphones are better for calls — Bose or Sony?
Bose has historically been rated better for call quality due to its microphone array, which separates voice from background noise more cleanly. The Sony XM6 has improved significantly but Bose still leads for calls.
Do Bose Ultra headphones fold?
No — the Bose Ultra Headphones do not have a folding hinge. They come with a semi-hard carrying case but take more bag space than the folding Sony.
Can I use LDAC with Bose Ultra headphones?
No — Bose Ultra supports SBC and AAC only. If LDAC high-res Bluetooth is important to you, Sony XM6 is the better choice.
Last updated: May 15, 2026 · Sources: RTINGS.com headphone ANC rankings, Bose (bose.com), Sony (sony.com), Wirecutter best headphones