Sony WF-1000XM5 vs Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II vs AirPods Pro 2 — Which Should You Buy in 2025?
When it comes to true wireless earbuds, competition is fierce. In 2025, three flagship models clearly stand above the rest: Sony WF-1000XM5, Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II, and Apple AirPods Pro 2. Each excels in different areas, making the final choice less about which is “best” overall and more about which is right for you.
If noise cancellation is your top priority, you may also want to explore our full roundup of the best noise-cancelling earbuds you must have in 2025.
Quick Comparison Overview
| Feature | Sony WF-1000XM5 | Bose QC Earbuds II | AirPods Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Excellent | Best-in-class | Very good |
| Sound Quality | Rich & balanced | Deep bass | Clean & spatial |
| Battery Life | Up to 8h | Up to 6h | Up to 6h |
| Best For | Music lovers | Comfort & ANC | Apple users |
Sony WF-1000XM5
Sony’s WF-1000XM5 is the most refined version of its flagship earbuds yet. With industry-leading noise cancellation and an exceptionally detailed sound profile, these earbuds are ideal for users who prioritize audio quality above all else.
- Outstanding ANC with adaptive sound control
- High-resolution audio support
- Up to 8 hours of playback (24+ hours with case)
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Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Bose focuses heavily on comfort and noise cancellation, and the QuietComfort Earbuds II deliver exactly that. They are especially well-suited for long listening sessions, flights, and commuting.
- Arguably the strongest ANC available
- Extremely comfortable fit
- Rich, bass-forward sound
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Apple AirPods Pro 2
The AirPods Pro 2 shine when used within the Apple ecosystem. Seamless device switching, spatial audio, and an intuitive user experience make them the obvious choice for iPhone and Mac users.
- Excellent transparency and spatial audio
- Effortless Apple device integration
- Compact and lightweight design
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Comfort, Calls, and Alternatives
If your primary use case involves video calls or remote work, you may prefer over-ear solutions. In that case, see our expert picks for the best headsets for Zoom meetings in 2025.
Which One Should You Buy?
- Choose Sony WF-1000XM5 if sound quality and overall performance matter most.
- Choose Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II if comfort and noise cancellation are your top priorities.
- Choose AirPods Pro 2 if you are deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
All three earbuds are excellent choices in 2025, but the best option depends entirely on your listening habits and device ecosystem. Understanding your priorities—sound, comfort, or integration—will make the decision much easier.
For immersive audio beyond earbuds, don’t miss our guide to the top 5 best Bluetooth speakers in 2025.