Bose QuietComfort Ultra 896637-0020
Etymotic Research ER3SE
What Buyers Say
Bose QuietComfort Ultra 896637-0020
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (Gen 2) receive mostly positive feedback for their excellent noise cancellation, sound quality, and comfortable fit. Users appreciate the customizable EQ, sweat resistance, and long battery life, though some report issues with build quality, occasional disconnections, and a beeping sound. Overall, they are considered a strong competitor to AirPods Pro, especially for home use and workouts.
Pros
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Great sound quality
- Comfortable fit
- Customizable EQ
- Sweat resistant
Cons
- Build quality issues (plastic case)
- Occasional disconnections
- Beeping sound reported
- Not waterproof
- Heavier than AirPods Pro
Etymotic Research ER3SE
The Etymotic ER3 SE is widely praised for its neutral, uncolored sound and exceptional passive noise isolation, often described as god-tier for the price. Users highlight the need for proper deep insertion and aftermarket ear tips to achieve comfort and optimal sound, while the cable microphonics are a common frustration. The XR variant receives mixed feedback, with some finding it muddier than the SE. Overall, these IEMs are a top choice for audiophiles seeking clarity and isolation without active noise cancellation.
Pros
- Neutral, uncolored sound
- Exceptional passive noise isolation
- Great value for money
- Replaceable cable
- Comfortable with proper tips
Cons
- Pronounced cable microphonics
- Uncomfortable stock ear tips
- Requires deep insertion
- No inline mic or controls
- Not suitable for side sleeping
Scores
Specifications
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra 896637-0020 | Etymotic Research ER3SE | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | true wireless | in-ear |
| Ear Tips | Small, Medium, Large | Assorted |
| Weight | 0.08 kg★ | — |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | dynamic | balanced armature |
| Drivers | 1 | 1 |
| Freq Min | — | 20 Hz★ |
| Freq Max | — | 16 kHz★ |
| Impedance | — | 22 Ω |
| Hi-Res Audio | ✓★ | — |
| Codecs | aptX Adaptive | Etymotic ER3SE Studio Edition Earphone,Black |
| Surround | Spatial Audio | — |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✓★ | ✗ |
| ANC Type | adaptive | — |
| Transparency | ✓★ | — |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | ✓★ | — |
| Bluetooth | 5.3★ | — |
| Profiles | A2DP, HFP | — |
| Multipoint | ✓★ | — |
| Range | 9.100000381469727 m★ | — |
| Earbud Battery | ||
| Battery Life | 6 hrs★ | — |
| Charge Time | 3 hrs★ | — |
| Fast Charging | 20 Minutes for 2 Hours | — |
| Charging | USB-C★ | — |
| Case Battery | ||
| Case Battery | 18 hrs★ | — |
| Case Charging | USB-C★ | — |
| Wireless Charging | ✓★ | — |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✓★ | — |
| Mic Count | 4★ | — |
| NC Mic | ✓★ | — |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | Siri, Google Assistant | — |
| Touch Controls | ✓★ | — |
| App | Bose app | — |
| Volume Limiting | ✗ | — |
| Gaming Mode | ✗ | — |
| Bone Conduction | ✗ | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | — |
Pros & Cons
Bose QuietComfort Ultra 896637-0020
- Strong connectivity (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong anc (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong sound (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong mic (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
Etymotic Research ER3SE
- Strong user sentiment (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong social proof (66th percentile)
- Below average mic (12th percentile)12th %ile
- Below average connectivity (13th percentile)13th %ile
- Below average sound (29th percentile)
- Below average comfort (29th percentile)
Pricing
Bose QuietComfort Ultra 896637-0020 offers 2.1x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 88 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 18 of 37 specs.
