Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Bose QC Earbuds II vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: Which Noise-Cancelling Earbuds Are Best for You?

pcmag.com:

If you're in the market for a premium pair of noise-cancelling true wireless earphones, three models should be on your radar: the second-gen Apple AirPods Pro ($249), the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II ($299), and the Sony WF-1000XM5 ($299).

But how do you choose between them? To make your decision easier, we compared each pair across a wide range of categories. Dive into our detailed analysis below, and feel free to add your thoughts about any of these models in the comments section.

Consistency is key to a top-notch active noise cancellation experience, as well as to evaluating noise cancellation performance. I tested each model against real-world noise, but it's difficult to guarantee a similar sonic environment for each session. Thus, I also ran various sample recordings through an array of powerful 5.1-channel surround speakers (as well as some stereo desktop speakers) at high volumes to see how the earbuds fared. Some of the recordings mimic what you might hear in the real world, but others are meant to suss out particular strengths and weaknesses of ANC circuitry.

Sub-bass, the very deepest of the low frequencies, is the domain of subwoofers. When I add a subwoofer to the speaker mix for testing, I notice a wavering effect with the QC Earbuds II (and the AirPods Pro to a lesser extent). The Sony earbuds dial back this type of low rumble without that distraction. Moreover, the Bose pair seems to add a high-frequency masking hiss to the mix, something I don’t notice with the other two.

If there’s no sub-bass rumble in the equation, the Bose earbuds cancel low-frequency, drone-like noise exceptionally well. The AirPods Pro are nearly as effective here, but the Sony earphones fall a step behind. Sometimes you can get