Bose QuietComfort Earbuds vs Sennheiser Momentum 2 (2021): Which Noise Cancelling Earbuds Are Better?

Bose and Sennheiser are both widely recognized brands when it comes to audio technology and equipment. Bose released its QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Earbuds back in September, while Sennheiser released the Momentum True Wireless 2 in April as an update to the original Momentum True Wireless earbuds. It’s a tight battle between the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds and Sennheiser Momentum 2, but which is the better option? Read on to find out as this article breaks down key comparisons between the two, including how well they perform in terms of active noise cancelling in different situations.

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds vs Sennheiser Momentum 2 Comparison Chart

Design

The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds come in a heftier size and design compared to the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2. 

In this area, Sennheiser’s improved design comes out ahead against Bose for those who prefer earbuds with a snug fit design for all-day wear and listening. The Momentum True Wireless 2’s compact design nestles into the ears a little better than the bulky shape of the QuietComfort Earbuds that makes it noticeably stick out of the ears when worn.

However, with a larger area to work with, Bose features touch-sensitive onboard controls on the left earbud — giving it an edge over the Momentum 2’s finicky onboard controls that aren’t as responsive.

There isn’t much difference between the two earbud models when it comes to charging case designs. Although the Momentum 2’s charging case is comparatively smaller against the QuietComfort Earbuds’ charging case, both are already pretty hefty than those of most true wireless earbuds from other brands. While this doesn’t affect the portability of these earbud models, expect either one to take up a fair amount of room in your pocket.

Sound Quality & Control

Momentum True Wireless 2 gives a better performance when it comes to sound quality & control as it supports aptX and features EQ in its Smart Control App.

With its original Momentum True Wireless earbuds released back in 2018, Sennheiser has proven before that it can deliver great sound into such a small device. The brand’s Momentum 2 earbuds are no exception. It is arguably the top choice amongst true wireless earbuds available in the market today when it comes to sound quality. Unlike the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, the Momentum 2 supports aptX — a technology that improves music quality during wireless streaming.

That’s not to say that Bose falls short in the sound quality aspect. The QuietComfort Earbuds produce stable neutrals that help emphasize crisp details in mids, although its bass is more subdued. This balanced audio and excellent clarity are what Bose audio devices are known for, which is why it’s surprising that the company opted to exclude an EQ in its Bose Music app.

Meanwhile, Sennheiser’s Smart Control app has an EQ and allows users to save presets — setting the two earbuds further apart in terms of controls.

Active Noise Cancellation Performance 

The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds back up its claim of being “The world’s most effective noise cancelling earbuds.” 

The Sony WF-1000XM3 is arguably the best amongst true wireless earbuds when it comes to active noise cancellation (ANC). That being said, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds’ ANC features are on par with Sony’s flagship earbuds, if not better. It boasts up to 11 levels of efficient noise cancellation along with its impressive passive noise isolation feature. The QuietComfort Earbuds also allows users to save up to three ANC settings that you can activate by tapping on the left earbud or through the Bose Music app.

The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 earbuds’ ANC feature is a step up against its original 2018 model, which completely missed out on including ANC. The Momentum 2 holds up pretty well against the QuietComfort Earbuds when it comes to stifling low-frequency sounds, but not as well with higher frequencies.

Both Bose and Sennheiser earbud models feature transparency/ambient modes that work equally well. This feature is convenient for users going out on a jog or having a chat with someone while on the go without having to remove an earbud.

Battery Life & Charging

The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 does a better job than the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds with its seven hours of battery life. 

The battery life of Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds lasts up to six hours with the ANC off and with volumes set to the default level. Meanwhile, the Momentum 2 lasts up to a full hour longer.

The charging cases of both earbud models hold two additional charges, with Bose having the advantage of supporting both wired (USB-C) and wireless charging. Plugging in the USB-C cable for 15 minutes will get users up to two hours of playback. Meanwhile, Sennheiser’s USB-C charging gives 90 minutes of playback after a 10-minute charging time.

Verdict

Choose the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 for superior sound quality, or choose the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds for superb active noise cancellation performance. 

Choosing between the two high-end earbud models can be difficult, but it ultimately boils down to personal preference. If you value sound quality over anything else when it comes to your audio equipment, Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 is easily the right choice for you as it comes with decent active noise cancellation and longer battery life. If you prefer the best active noise cancellation that true wireless earbuds have to offer, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds is the clear choice between the two. Plus, it offers wireless charging as a convenience bonus.

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