Sony WH-1000XM6 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra vs AirPods Max (2024)

Choosing between the Sony WH-1000XM6, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, and Apple AirPods Max isn't simple. All three command premium prices and promise exceptional audio experiences, but they take different approaches to get there. Sony's just-released WH-1000XM6 ($349) brings a powerful new processor and improved sound. Bose's QuietComfort Ultra ($429, often on sale for $279) stakes its reputation on best-in-class noise cancellation. Apple's AirPods Max ($450) bet everything on ecosystem integration and luxury materials.

The stakes are high because you're spending $350 to $450 on headphones that should last years. Get it wrong and you're stuck with expensive regret. Get it right and you've got a daily companion that makes commutes bearable, work-from-home sessions productive, and music genuinely enjoyable.

After analyzing expert reviews from CNET, Tom's Guide, RTINGS, and hands-on testing, we've found a clear winner. The Sony WH-1000XM6 takes the crown with its combination of improved sound quality, 30-hour battery life, and reasonable pricing. But the Bose and Apple options have specific strengths that might make them the right choice for your situation. Here's how they actually compare.