Bose’s noise-crushing QC Ultra Earbuds are nearly 20 percent off right now

At a glance:

• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) drop to $249 ($50 off) at Amazon and Best Buy.
• ANC offers 11 adjustable steps plus transparency mode for fine-tuned control.
• Wireless charging case and Immersive Audio add premium features at a mid-tier price.

Deep discounts on Bose’s flagship noise-canceling earbuds

Bose has long dominated the active noise-canceling (ANC) market, and its latest QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) continue that legacy. Right now, Amazon and Best Buy are offering the earbuds for $249, a $50 discount that matches their second-best price to date. While the design hasn’t changed dramatically from the first generation, the improvements under the hood—particularly in sound fidelity and call clarity—make this an appealing upgrade for anyone seeking top-tier ANC without stepping up to the premium tier.

Sound quality and customization

The QC Ultra Earbuds lean slightly bass-heavy out of the box, but the high-end remains crisp and lively whether you stick with the default tuning or tweak it via the three-band equalizer in the Bose Music app. This level of customization is rare in truly wireless earbuds and allows listeners to shape the audio profile to their taste. The earbuds also support Immersive Audio, Bose’s answer to Apple’s spatial audio, which can add a sense of depth when streaming compatible content.

Advanced ANC with granular control

Where these earbuds truly excel is in their ANC implementation. Instead of a simple on/off toggle, Bose offers 11 incremental steps between full cancellation and complete transparency. Users can lock in presets for specific scenarios—say, maximum noise reduction for a noisy commute or a lighter setting for outdoor runs. Even in transparency mode (called Aware mode), the earbuds do an excellent job of suppressing low-frequency rumble and sudden loud spikes, making it easier to stay aware of your surroundings without sacrificing too much audio quality.

Practical extras and charging case

A wireless charging case is included, adding convenience for users who prefer to drop the earbuds on a pad rather than plug in a cable. Battery life is competitive for the category, and the case provides multiple recharges on the go. These features, combined with the current discount, position the QC Ultra Earbuds as a strong value proposition against rivals from Apple, Sony, and Samsung.

Other notable deals this week

While the Bose discount is the headline, several other tech deals are worth noting. Belkin’s last-gen BoostCharge Pro 2-in-1 stand is down to $34.99 at Woot with an AC adapter included—its lowest price yet. The stand delivers up to 15W to iPhones from the 12 series onward and includes a secondary pad for earbuds. Turtle Beach’s Stealth Pivot gamepad has also hit its all-time low of $99.99 at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy, featuring Hall effect sticks, programmable back buttons, and swiveling modules for retro and fighting game layouts. Finally, Apple’s 2022 iPad remains the cheapest entry-level tablet at $299 for the Wi-Fi, 128GB model—$150 off—though its A16 chip is beginning to show its age.

Bottom line

For shoppers prioritizing noise cancellation and sound customization, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds at $249 represent a compelling mid-tier option. The granular ANC control, wireless charging, and Immersive Audio support give them an edge over many competitors, even if the design remains familiar. With strong alternatives from Apple, Sony, and Samsung in the same price bracket, the decision may come down to ecosystem preference and whether Bose’s signature sound profile suits your listening habits.