Looking for an honest Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 vs Bose QuietComfort comparison in 2026? We scored both earbuds on the same six-dimension framework — performance, battery, display, camera, design and value — using identical methodology, so the numbers below are directly comparable. In our overall scoring the Bose QuietComfort comes out ahead 47/100 to 59/100 — a 12-point gap. The widest gap is in performance, where the Bose QuietComfort pulls noticeably ahead. On price the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 undercuts the Bose QuietComfort by 62% ($68 vs $109.95), which materially changes the value calculus for budget-conscious buyers.
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Bose QuietComfort edges out the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 in the earbuds category, especially in performance, scoring 59 vs 47. If you want the better overall earbuds, Bose QuietComfort is the recommended choice.
Picking Bose QuietComfort over Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 means trading these off.
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
✓ Pros
| Spec | Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 | Bose QuietComfortW |
|---|---|---|
| Type | In-ear (TWS) | In-ear (TWS) |
| Driver Type | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Driver Size | 11mm | 11mm |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz | 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz |
| ANC | Active Noise Cancelling | Active Noise Cancelling |
| Transparency Mode | Yes (Transparency mode) |
Buy Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 if…
Choose the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 if budget is your top priority — it offers competitive specs at a lower price point.
Buy Bose QuietComfort if…
Buy the Bose QuietComfort if you want the best performance in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
Bose QuietComfort edges out the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 in the earbuds category, especially in performance, scoring 59 vs 47. If you want the better overall earbuds, Bose QuietComfort is the recommended choice.
No, Bose QuietComfort scores higher (84 vs 72).
Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 is cheaper at $68 vs $109.95 for the Bose QuietComfort.
Choose the Apple AirPods 4th Generation 2024 if budget is your top priority — it offers competitive specs at a lower price point.
Buy the Bose QuietComfort if you want the best performance in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
Bose QuietComfort lasts longer with 6 hours vs 5 hours for the other.
Reviewed by VersusMatrix Editorial Team
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Methodology: AI-powered analysis of technical specifications from manufacturer data. Scores are calculated by comparing products across multiple dimensions and normalized relative to the full category database. Our editorial process is independent and not influenced by affiliate partnerships.
Scores are relative within the earbudscategory. Percentages show each dimension's weight in the overall score. A difference of less than 0.5 points is considered a tie.
✗ Cons
| Yes |
| Spatial Audio | Yes (Dolby Atmos) | true |
| EQ App | AirPods app | Bose Music app |
| Touch Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Siri, Google |
| Battery Life | 5hrs | 6hrs✓ |
| Case Battery | 30hrs✓ | 18hrs |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (MagSafe) | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC |
| Multipoint | Yes (2 devices) | true |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IP55 |
| Fit | In-ear | In-ear |
| Weight | 4.3g✓ | 8g |
| Colors | White, Black | Twilight Blue, Black, White |
| Price | 68$✓ | 109.95$ |