Bose Quietcomfort 35 vs Sony WH-1000XM3 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Sony WH-1000XM3 & Bose QuietComfort 35 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 Sony WH-1000XM3 rather than the Bose QuietComfort 35.

Why Do I Recommend The Sony WH-1000XM3?

  • The Sony WH-1000XM3 has industry-leading adaptive noise cancellation for more effective suppression of low-frequency engine and HVAC noise in travel and office environments, whereas the Bose QuietComfort 35 uses an older fixed ANC system.
  • Sony WH-1000XM3 supports LDAC Bluetooth audio for higher-resolution wireless playback with compatible devices and less compression artifacts, while the Bose QuietComfort 35 supports only standard SBC and AAC codecs.
  • It comes with a 30-hour battery rating with active noise cancellation for longer uninterrupted listening during long flights and workdays, while the Bose QuietComfort 35 provides up to 20-hour battery life.
  • The Sony WH-1000XM3 includes USB-C charging for faster charging speeds and easier cable compatibility with modern devices, whereas the Bose QuietComfort 35 includes a Micro-USB charging port.
  • Sony WH-1000XM3 features touch-sensitive earcup controls for quicker adjustment of volume, playback, and noise modes without physical buttons, while the Bose QuietComfort 35 features only physical button controls.
  • It has a customizable EQ within its companion app for precise sound tuning based on listener preference, whereas the Bose QuietComfort 35 has no user-adjustable equalizer.
  • The Sony WH-1000XM3 supports adaptive sound control for automatically adjusting noise cancellation based on movement and location, while the Bose QuietComfort 35 uses static noise-canceling behavior.
  • Sony WH-1000XM3 comes with NFC pairing for faster one-tap Bluetooth connection with supported smartphones, while the Bose QuietComfort 35 comes with standard manual Bluetooth pairing only.

Maybe the Bose QuietComfort 35 can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Sony WH-1000XM3. 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.

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureSony WH-1000XM3Bose QuietComfort 35
Bluetooth version4.24.1
Bluetooth codecsSBC, AAC, LDACSBC, AAC
App EQYesNo
Control typeTouch gesturesPhysical buttons
USB portUSB-CMicro-USB
Rated battery (ANC on)Up to 30 hrsUp to 20 hrs
Quick charge~10 min for ~5 hrs~15 min for ~2.5 hrs
Included airline adapterYesNo
ANC adjustmentMultiple levels + ambient controlHigh/Low/Off / limited modes
Auto sound profilesAdaptive Sound ControlNo
NFC pairingYesNo
Earcup swivel flatYesNo
Carry case styleHard shellSoft case
Ear pad feelThicker/plusherSofter/lighter
Mic system (calls)More aggressive noise reductionMore natural voice, older tuning
Wired mode behaviorWorks wired; power on for ANC featuresWorks wired; power on for ANC features
Voice assistant triggerTouch/gestureDedicated button / button combo
PriceCheck Sony XM3 PriceCheck QuietComfort 35 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Active Noise Cancellation: Both headphones use active noise cancellation technology to reduce constant ambient sounds such as engine noise, fans, and background hum. This makes them well suited for travel, commuting, and focused listening.
  • Over-ear design: Each model uses an over-ear form factor that fully surrounds the ears. This design improves comfort over long sessions and contributes to better passive noise isolation.
  • Closed-back construction: Both headphones use a closed-back acoustic design. This helps contain sound within the earcups and minimizes audio leakage to the outside.
  • Wireless Bluetooth audio: Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 both support Bluetooth wireless playback. This allows cable-free use with phones, tablets, laptops, and other compatible devices.
  • Wired listening support: Each model includes a 3.5 mm analog input for wired listening. This ensures continued usability when the battery is low or when Bluetooth is not allowed.
  • Built-in microphones: Both headphones integrate microphones for calls and voice commands. This enables hands-free communication without needing an external mic.
  • Voice assistant support: Each model supports voice assistants such as Google Assistant or Siri. This allows users to control music, calls, and information requests through voice commands.
  • On-head detection: Both headphones can detect when they are worn or removed. This helps manage playback behavior and power efficiency during daily use.
  • Foldable design: Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 both feature foldable structures. This makes them easier to store and transport in bags or backpacks.
  • Carrying case included: Each product ships with a protective carrying case. The case helps prevent damage during travel and storage.
  • Rechargeable battery: Both models rely on built-in rechargeable batteries. This eliminates the need for disposable batteries and supports daily wireless use.
  • ANC usable in wired mode: Each headphone can use active noise cancellation even when connected by cable. This is useful for airplane entertainment systems or wired desktop setups.
  • Physical power button: Both models include a dedicated power button. This provides reliable control over power and pairing without relying solely on touch or gestures.
  • Phone call support: Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 both allow users to take phone calls directly through the headphones. This supports work calls and casual conversations on the go.
  • Stereo audio: Both headphones deliver standard stereo sound output. This ensures proper left-right channel separation for music, video, and games.
  • Comfort-focused padding: Each model uses cushioned ear pads and a padded headband. This design helps reduce pressure and fatigue during long listening sessions.
  • Travel-friendly design: Both headphones are designed with frequent travelers in mind. Features like ANC, folding construction, and included cases make them practical for flights and daily commuting.

Common Features

FeatureSony WH-1000XM3Bose QuietComfort 35
Active Noise CancellationYesYes
Over-ear designYesYes
Closed-back constructionYesYes
Wireless Bluetooth audioYesYes
Wired listening supportYesYes
Built-in microphonesYesYes
Voice assistant supportYesYes
On-head detectionYesYes
Foldable designYesYes
Carrying case includedYesYes
Rechargeable batteryYesYes
ANC usable in wired modeYesYes
Physical power buttonYesYes
Phone call supportYesYes
Stereo audioYesYes
Comfort-focused paddingYesYes
Travel-friendly designYesYes
Price Check Sony XM3 Price
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FAQ

Are Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 good for travel?
Yes, both models are designed with travelers in mind, combining active noise cancellation, long battery life, foldable designs, and included carrying cases that make them suitable for flights, trains, and daily commuting.

Do both headphones support active noise cancellation while wired?
Yes, Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 can use active noise cancellation even when connected with a 3.5 mm cable, as long as the headphones are powered on.

Can both headphones be used for phone calls?
Yes, both models include built-in microphones that allow users to make and receive phone calls directly through the headphones without removing them.

Do Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 work with voice assistants?
Yes, both headphones support common voice assistants such as Google Assistant and Siri, enabling hands-free control for calls, music playback, and basic commands.

Are these headphones comfortable for long listening sessions?
Yes, both models feature over-ear designs with padded earcups and headbands, which help reduce pressure and fatigue during extended use.

Do both headphones support wired and wireless listening?
Yes, each model supports Bluetooth wireless audio as well as wired listening through a standard 3.5 mm audio cable.

Are Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 suitable for office or work use?
Yes, both are suitable for office environments due to their effective noise cancellation, call support, and comfortable fit for long periods of use.

Do both headphones include a carrying case in the box?
Yes, both Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 come with a protective carrying case to help prevent damage during storage or travel.

Can these headphones be folded for easier storage?
Yes, both models feature foldable designs that allow them to be packed more compactly in bags or backpacks.

Do both headphones rely on rechargeable batteries?
Yes, both use built-in rechargeable batteries, eliminating the need for disposable batteries and supporting daily wireless use.

Are Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 compatible with laptops and tablets?
Yes, both headphones can connect to laptops, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices, making them versatile across different platforms.

Do both headphones provide stereo sound?
Yes, both models deliver standard stereo audio with left and right channel separation for music, videos, and general media playback.

Can the headphones be used with airplane entertainment systems?
Yes, both models can be connected to airplane entertainment systems using a wired connection, and Sony WH-1000XM3 commonly includes an airline adapter.

Are both headphones designed to reduce external noise passively as well?
Yes, in addition to active noise cancellation, their over-ear closed-back designs provide passive noise isolation by physically blocking outside sounds.

Are Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 considered premium headphones?
Yes, both models are widely regarded as premium noise-canceling headphones, known for their comfort, build quality, and performance in their respective generations.