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
| Feature | Sony WH-1000XM3 | Bose QuietComfort 35 |
| Bluetooth version | 4.2 | 4.1 |
| Bluetooth codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC, AAC |
| App EQ | Yes | No |
| Control type | Touch gestures | Physical buttons |
| USB port | USB-C | Micro-USB |
| Rated battery (ANC on) | Up to 30 hrs | Up to 20 hrs |
| Quick charge | ~10 min for ~5 hrs | ~15 min for ~2.5 hrs |
| Included airline adapter | Yes | No |
| ANC adjustment | Multiple levels + ambient control | High/Low/Off / limited modes |
| Auto sound profiles | Adaptive Sound Control | No |
| NFC pairing | Yes | No |
| Earcup swivel flat | Yes | No |
| Carry case style | Hard shell | Soft case |
| Ear pad feel | Thicker/plusher | Softer/lighter |
| Mic system (calls) | More aggressive noise reduction | More natural voice, older tuning |
| Wired mode behavior | Works wired; power on for ANC features | Works wired; power on for ANC features |
| Voice assistant trigger | Touch/gesture | Dedicated button / button combo |
| Price | Check Sony XM3 Price | Check 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
| Feature | Sony WH-1000XM3 | Bose QuietComfort 35 |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes | Yes |
| Over-ear design | Yes | Yes |
| Closed-back construction | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Bluetooth audio | Yes | Yes |
| Wired listening support | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in microphones | Yes | Yes |
| Voice assistant support | Yes | Yes |
| On-head detection | Yes | Yes |
| Foldable design | Yes | Yes |
| Carrying case included | Yes | Yes |
| Rechargeable battery | Yes | Yes |
| ANC usable in wired mode | Yes | Yes |
| Physical power button | Yes | Yes |
| Phone call support | Yes | Yes |
| Stereo audio | Yes | Yes |
| Comfort-focused padding | Yes | Yes |
| Travel-friendly design | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Check Sony XM3 Price | Check Delta Zulu Price |
FAQ
Are Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 good for travel? Do both headphones support active noise cancellation while wired? Can both headphones be used for phone calls? Do Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 work with voice assistants? Are these headphones comfortable for long listening sessions? Do both headphones support wired and wireless listening? Are Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 suitable for office or work use? Do both headphones include a carrying case in the box? Can these headphones be folded for easier storage? Do both headphones rely on rechargeable batteries? Are Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 compatible with laptops and tablets? Do both headphones provide stereo sound? Can the headphones be used with airplane entertainment systems? Are both headphones designed to reduce external noise passively as well? Are Sony WH-1000XM3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 considered premium headphones? |