AIRPODS PRO 2 vs BOSE QUIETCOMFORT BUDS 2 (Tested and Compared!)

Introduction

This tutorial compares the new AirPods Pro 2 and Bose QuietComfort Buds 2, focusing on their Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) capabilities, audio quality, features, design, and pricing. By following this guide, you'll gain a clear understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision on which earbuds best suit your needs.

Step 1: Understand Active Noise Cancellation

• Definition: ANC technology reduces unwanted ambient sounds using microphones that pick up external noise and generate sound waves to cancel it out.
• Comparison:
  • Bose: Claims to have the world's best ANC with 11 adjustable levels.
  • AirPods Pro 2: Claims to offer twice the ANC performance of the original model.

Step 2: Conduct ANC Tests

• Testing Conditions:
  • Airplane noise: Set volume to 35 on Bose and 27 on AirPods.
  • Air conditioner: AirPods completely canceled the noise, whereas Bose retained a gentle hum.
  • Voice test: AirPods blocked female voice until volume 13; Bose at volume 16.
  • Wind noise: Similar performance on both but noticeable wind at head-on angles.
• Conclusion on ANC:
  • AirPods excelled in complete silence below 52dB.
  • Bose performed better for sounds above 55dB.

Step 3: Evaluate Audio Quality

• Codec Support: Both earbuds use SBC and AAC codecs.
• Bose Sound Profile:
  • Offers warm bass and balanced sound.
  • Allows EQ adjustments via the app.
  • Great for live recordings and studio accuracy.
• AirPods Sound Profile:
  • Volume-adjusted tuning for clarity.
  • More focus on clarity over bass.

Step 4: Explore Features

• Compatibility:
  • Both earbuds work well with Android and Apple devices.
• Control Mechanisms:
  • Bose: Tap and swipe controls.
  • AirPods: Pinch and swipe controls with EarScan for 360 audio.
• Battery Life:
  • Bose: 6 hours with 24 hours total from the case.
  • AirPods: 6 hours with 30 hours total from the case.
• Charging:
  • AirPods case supports Qi, MagSafe, and Apple Watch charging; Bose does not support wireless charging.

Step 5: Analyze Design and Comfort

• Physical Attributes:
  • Bose has a wingtip for a secure fit, while AirPods come in smaller sizes with an XS tip option.
• Comfort Level: Both earbuds are comfortable, but individual experiences may vary.

Step 6: Consider Pricing

• Cost Comparison:
  • AirPods Pro 2: Approximately $250.
  • Bose QuietComfort Buds 2: Approximately $300.

Conclusion

When deciding between the AirPods Pro 2 and Bose QuietComfort Buds 2, consider the following:

• ANC Performance: AirPods excel in quiet environments, while Bose is better for blocking loud sounds.
• Audio Quality: Choose based on preference for bass versus clarity.
• Features: Evaluate battery life, charging options, and device compatibility.
• Design: Comfort and fit might influence your choice.

Ultimately, both models are top-tier options in the market, so your choice will depend on personal preferences and specific use cases.