Bose is well known for its noise-canceling headphones, home audio system, and Bluetooth speakers. Bang & Olufsen is also highly acclaimed for impressive quality headphones and Bluetooth speakers as well as smart speakers. A true difference can only be inferred from a model by model review of Bose vs Bang and Olufsen.
Most Bose and B & O audio devices are easily compatible with many devices. The wireless ones can be connected easily via Bluetooth with any device that supports Bluetooth connection. The same goes for portable speakers.
PC, laptops, Mac, mobile devices, etc can be easily connected with most of the Bose and B & O audio devices by it may vary model to model that we discuss in detail in side by side review section of the article. Multiroom speakers can also be easily paired via Bluetooth. And wired headphones also can be connected easily with these devices, though it will need assigned ports.
However, Bose is better in one aspect, and it’s having compatibility with Xbox, Playstation, etc gaming consoles.
Quick View of Bose Corporation:
Bose Corporation is one of the leading companies for sound systems in the world. They sell other equipment, but they are predominant in manufacturing sound system equipment.
This American manufacturing company manufactures some really good quality audio equipment such as speakers and headphones. They have great products like ‘Bose Soundsport Free Totally Wireless Earbuds’, ‘Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700’, ‘Bose Soundlink Revolve’, ‘Bose QuietComfort 35 II’ etc.
Quick View of Bang & Olufsen:
If we talk about the most luxurious and high-end manufacturing companies in the world, ‘Bang and Olufsen’ will make in the list without any doubt. It’s a Danish consumer electronics company that is quite prominent in designing and manufacturing good quality audio products.
They have manufactured high-end audio products such as ‘ Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H5’, ‘B & O Beoplay E8’, ‘Beoplay H9’, ‘Bang & Olufsen Beoplay A1’, ‘Beoplay H9i’, ‘Beoplay E8’ etc.
Bose vs Bang & Olufsen Headphone
Let’s look at some of their headphones in the beginning and then we will compare other kinds of speakers from Bose and B&O.
Headphone Type:
Currently, in the headphone industry, there are different types of headphones available. The types are mainly on-ear headphones, in-ear headphones, and over-ear headphones, open-back headphones, closed-back headphones.
Both Bose and B&O produce all these types of headphones. Let’s have a closer look at these different types.
In-Ear Headphones
The most common type of headphones is the in-ear headphones or in short, ‘earbuds’. However, they are widely used for their very conveniently small size and huge portability.
But they can’t cover every aspect of sound and audio device should have. They are the prime type of headphones to use with mobile devices. B&O is better than Bose in this area.
On-Ear Headphones
These kinds of headphones are worn on the ears and they weigh less. So it’s comfortable to use them. However, in order to have comfort, you will have to compromise with the sound quality and features like active noise cancellation. The bass sound and compact design is their strong zone.
Over-Ear Headphones
They are big in size and not really good portability wise. Even though they are heavy in size, they are really comfortable to use as oversized comfortable earcups with comfortable pads cover the ears entirely.
Their sound-producing quality is also top-notch for having large drivers as they can easily produce a wide range of frequency. Bose has better over-ear headphones.
Wired and Wireless
Connectivity-wise there are two types of headphones, wired and wireless. Wired headphones are more conventional than wireless ones. They get connected with devices via wires and can easily accommodate more content and better sound quality via analog signals.
On the other hand, wireless headphones are really convenient to use and they mainly use Bluetooth as a connectivity option. You can easily connect a wireless headphone with a Bluetooth enabled device and use it while roaming freely far from the device.
Both Bose and Bang & Olufsen have a number of wired and wireless headphones under their names. Bose and B & O use the 4.2 version of Bluetooth in general. However, if you choose sound quality over convenience, wire headphones are for you. Otherwise, wireless headphones should be your preference.
Wired Models
Wireless Models
Noise Cancellation:
Active noise cancellation is one of the most impressive features of many Bose and Bang & Olufsen headphones. This feature helps audiophiles to enjoy music without any interference of outside noises.
Both these brands provide quality noise cancellation feature, but Bose has a better touch in this area. Noise-canceling headphones of Bose have upper hands against the B&O ones. As the noise cancellation feature of Bose headphones work better than B&O. Here are some noise-canceling headphones of both brands-
Closed-Back Headphones
These kinds of headphones are useful for peripheral noise blocking. This feature helps to listen to music without any outside interference, as it creates an isolated experience of audio.
Open Back Headphones
These headphones have open earcups and they provide more air circulation that makes the system an open-air sound, which is more like listening to speakers in a room.
Bose and Bang & Olufsen Headphones Model by Model Review:
B & O Beoplay E8 vs Bose SoundSport Free
Comparison Chart
| Ground of Comparison | Beoplay E8 | Bose Soundsport Free |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless Usage | Yes | Yes |
| Device Control Panel | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 13 g | 18.14 g |
| Noise Cancelling Microphone | No | No |
| Stereo Speakers | Yes | Yes |
| In-Ear Form | Yes | No |
| Splash proof | No | Yes |
| Active Noise Cancellation | No | No |
| Passive Noise Reduction | Yes | No |
| Neodymium Magnet | Yes | No |
| Battery Life | 4 hours | 5 hours |
| Rechargeable Battery | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Level Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Charge Time | 2 hours | 2 hours |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 4.1 |
| Bluetooth Pairing Using NFC | No | No |
| WiFi Support | No | No |
| Sweat Resistance | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Prompts | No | Yes |
| Mute Function | Yes | No |
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8
Pros
- Impressive audio quality
- Setup is easy
- Fits very comfortably
- Has passive noise reduction
- Has mute function
- Gorgeous design
Cons
- Active noise cancellation is not provided
- Not weather sealed or splash proof
- Expensive
Bose Soundsport Free True Wireless Earbuds
Pros
- Excellent and balanced sound
- Specially built for rough usage
- Battery life is good
- Splash-proof feature
- Provides really useful charging case
Cons
- Ambient noise isolation is not good
- Earbuds fit loosely and stick out
- Comparatively expensive than other earbuds
- No passive voice reduction and mute function
Verdict
We have looked at the comparison chart between these two earbuds. And also had a quick look at the advantages and disadvantages offered by the B & O Beoplay E8 and Bose Soundsport Free True Wireless Earbuds.
We can easily come to a decision here, that the Beoplay E8 wins the round easily. By fitting smoothly in the ear, it provides comfort, whereas the Bose Soundsport Free fits loosely and sticks out.
Noise cancellation is another huge factor, and the Bose one is too bad for this job. However, Bose is good in ways like rough usage and battery life, but overall Beoplay E8 is the winner with its design and features.
B & O Beoplay H9i vs Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Comparison Chart
| Ground of Comparison | Beoplay H9i | Bose QuietComfort 35 II |
|---|---|---|
| Stereo Speakers | Yes | Yes |
| Over-Ear Form | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Usage | Yes | Yes |
| Detachable Cable | Yes | Yes |
| Folding Options | No | Yes |
| Weight | 295 g | 309 g |
| Frequency Range | 20 Hz- 22000 Hz | 10 Hz- 20000 Hz |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes | Yes |
| Passive Noise Reduction | No | Yes |
| Rechargeable Battery | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Level Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| USB Type C | Yes | No |
| Removable Battery | Yes | No |
| Battery Life | 23 hours | 20 hours |
| WiFi Support | No | No |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 4.1 |
| Noise Cancelling Mic | No | Yes |
| Number of Microphones | 6 | 2 |
| Device Control Panel | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Prompts | Yes | Yes |
| Sweat Resistance | No | No |
| Xbox+ PS Compatibility | No | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Pros
- Balanced and soft sound quality
- Really comfortable to use
- Incredible noise cancellation
- Has passive noise reduction
- The mic is noise-canceling too
- Compatible with both Xbox and Playstation
- Has Google Assistant Feature
Cons
- Generic and plain design
- Doesn’t have an autoplay/ pause option
- No instant mute option
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9i
Pros
- Stylish, eye-catching design
- Infinitely adjustable aluminum made arms
- Adjustable and really comfortable earcups
- Autoplay and pause option due to intelligent sensor
- Good battery life
- Detailed, dynamic, and incredible sound quality
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Has transparency mode
- Easy customization options with the B&O app
Cons
- The mic is not noise canceling
- Doesn’t have passive noise reduction
- No voice assistant
- Not compatible with Xbox or PlayStation
Verdict
This is a hard one. We can see both Bose QuietComfort 35 II and B&O Beoplay H9i have their fair share of advantages and disadvantages. They are both great noise-canceling headphones and both offer excellent quality of sound.
While the Bose one offers some specific features like noise cancellation in mic and voice assistant, on the other hand, Beoplay H9i provides app support, transparency mode, better battery life, etc.
Beoplay has the upper hand for having an autoplay/ pause feature, but the Bose is compatible with more devices. So it ultimately depends on you. You should choose the one whose set of features suits you the best.
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 vs B&O Beoplay H9
Comparison Chart
| Ground of Comparison | Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 | B&O Beoplay H9 |
|---|---|---|
| Over-Ear Form | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 0.55 lbs | 0.63 lbs |
| Dimensions | 2” x 6.5” x 8” | 2.05” x 7.87” x 7.76” |
| ANC Levels | 11 | 3 |
| Touch Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Foldable Design | Swivel | Swivel |
| Voice Assistant | Yes | Yes |
| Colors | 3 | 6 |
| Stereo Speakers | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Usage | Yes | Yes |
| Detachable Cable | Yes | Yes |
| Sweat Resistance | Yes | No |
| Water Resistance | No | No |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes | Yes |
| Passive Noise Reduction | Yes | No |
| Battery Level Indicator | No | Yes |
| Battery Life | 20 hours | 25 hours |
| Removable Battery | No | Yes |
| Noise Cancelling Mic | Yes | Yes |
| Number of Mics | 8 | 6 |
| Bluetooth Version | 5 | 4.2 |
| Device Control Panel | Yes | Yes |
| Mute Function | Yes | No |
| App | Bose Music | Bang & Olufsen |
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
Pros
- Has outstanding noise cancellation
- Lively and fun sound
- Aesthetic and stunning design
- Really comfortable to use
- Has a well-balanced soundstage
- Has passive noise reduction
Cons
- Battery life could be better
- Considerably expensive
- No battery level indicator
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9
Pros
- Effective noise cancellation
- Luxurious materials
- Stellar battery life
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Over exaggerated bass
- No multipoint pairing
- No autoplay/ pause option
- Not perfect value for money
Verdict
If we review the advantages and disadvantages of the Bose Active Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 and B&O Beoplay H9, it can be easily said the former win it handily.
Even though the Beoplay H9 provides better battery life, the Bose one beats it by having easier control and setup, deeper active noise cancellation, a more balanced sound system, etc.
Bose vs Bang & Olufsen Speaker:
Bose and Bang & Olufsen both are really advanced regarding the technology they use. They both have Bluetooth as connectivity features. And they both also have app support of their own.
Bose devices in general have the passive radiator feature. Whereas B & O devices usually possess passive noise reduction, customizable buttons, Chromecast, etc. Both Bose and B & O devices have access to a number of music streaming services such as Spotify, TuneIn, etc.
Voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistance are also available on these devices. So, both are quite impressive on the technology side.
Speaker Type
There are many types of speakers produced by both Bose and Band & Olufsen. These types are stereo, portable, multiroom, home theatre, architectural etc speakers.
Stereo Speakers
If two speakers are built into a single device and each of the speakers uses the respective stereo channel sound and together produce a stereo effect. Both Bose and B&O have a number of stereo speakers manufactured by them.
Portable Speakers
These speakers can be carried anywhere easily as they are small and don’t need a direct connection with devices. They can be connected to a device via Bluetooth or other connectivity options and play music from them. Portable speakers are one of the strong suits of both Bose and B&O. But B&O did a better job in these.
Multiroom Speakers
If multiple speakers wirelessly get connected and play music at your home, they are part of a multiroom sound system. These speakers are multiroom speakers. Both these brands have impressive multi-room speakers.
Home Theatre Speakers
These speakers mainly get connected to a TV or projector screen and help to play the sound of the movie or show you are watching on the TV. Both these brands are rich in producing home theatre speakers.
Architectural Speakers
They are designed to be installed into the ceiling or the wall and spread sound everywhere in the room. Both Bose and B & O have great prospects in this area.
| Preview | Product | |
|---|---|---|
|
Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage – Dolby Atmos Soundbar – TV and WiFi Speaker, Aluminum/Black | Buy on Amazon |
Quick Review of Bose Speaker:
- Bose Corporation manufactures various types of audio devices including headphones, speakers, portable speakers, soundbars, earbuds, etc.
- Bose has used active noise cancellation features in some headphones like Bose QuietComfort 35 II, Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700, etc.
- Some headphones allow voice assistants that help to use the headphone smoothly
- With the ‘Bose Music’ app, the sound can be customized and balanced easily in Bose devices
- Bose manufactures portable and home speakers such as ‘Bose Smart Soundbar 300’, ‘Bose Soundlink Revolve’, ‘Bose Surround Speakers 700’ etc. that provide powerful and versatile sound
- Bose gives a lot of emphasis on the lifestyle part while manufacturing the products
- Bose products are expensive in general, but most products provide value for money
Quick Review of Bang and Olufsen Speaker:
- Bang and Olufsen is mainly an Electronics manufacturing company and audio devices are one of their main products
- B & O devices are well known for their premium design and luxurious build-up
- Bang and Olufsen audio devices provide really good sound quality in general, even though sometimes it can get out of balance in some specific products like Beoplay H9.
- The earbuds and headphones provide amazingly powerful, focused and crispy sound and the sound system is one of the best available in the market.
- Easily customizable with the Beoplay app
- Provides so many features in its product which make usage of the devices B & O devices way more comfortable
- Active noise cancellation is not as strong, but other headphones and earbuds do a great job
- ‘Beoplay E8’, ‘Beoplay H3’, ‘Beoplay A1’ etc are some of Bang and Olufsen’s most esteemed products.
Comparison Table: Bose vs Bang & Olufsen Specs
| Features | Bose Corporation | Bang and Olufsen |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Active Noise Cancellation Passive Radiator Neodymium Magnet High Compatibility Bluetooth | Noise Cancellation Passive Noise Reduction Chromecast DLNA Customizable Buttons Microsoft Swift Pair Google Fast Pair Bluetooth |
| Durability | High | High |
| Overall Battery Life | Less than B & O | Higher than Bose |
| Streaming Services | Spotify Deezer TuneIn YouTube Music AirPlay 2 | Spotify Deezer TuneIn QPlay AirPlay 2 Line-In |
| Voice Assistants | Amazon Alexa Google Assistant | Google Assistant Siri Alexa |
| Apps | Bose Music | Bang & Olufsen |
B & O Beoplay A1 vs Bose Soundlink Revolve:
Comparison Chart
| Ground of Comparison | Beoplay A1 | Bose Soundlink Revolve |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless Usage | Yes | Yes |
| Drivers Count | 2 | 1 |
| Device Control Panel | Yes | Yes |
| Splash Proof | Yes | Yes |
| Neodymium Magnet | No | Yes |
| Stereo Speakers | No | No |
| Subwoofer | Yes | No |
| Passive Radiator | No | Yes |
| Rechargeable Battery | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Level Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life | 24 hours | 12 hours |
| Wireless Charging | No | No |
| Charge Time | 2.5 hours | 4 hours |
| AUX Input | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi Support | No | No |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 4.2 |
| 3.5 mm Audio Jack Socket | Yes | No |
| USB Ports | 1 | 1 |
| Remote Smartphone Support | Yes | Yes |
| Mute Function | Yes | No |
| Voice Command | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Prompts | Yes | Yes |
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay A1
Pros
- Intriguing and premium Design
- Powerful sound compared to the size
- Good all-round speaker quality
- 360 degree sound dispersion feature
- Customizable control button
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Not much durable
Bose Soundlink Revolve
Pros
- Beautiful build and design
- Expansive and detailed
- True 360 degree sound experience
- Has multifunction control buttons
- Can pump music loudly in all directions
- Excellent sonic performance
Cons
- The range is not good enough
- The charging dock is not included
- Not fully dust or waterproof
- Expensive price tag
Verdict
First of all, you should understand that both these portable Bluetooth speakers are one of the best ones currently available in the market. And comparisons aside, both of them are great in their own ways.
But there are some basic differences between their offered features and advantages. In the Bose Soundlink Revolve vs Beoplay A1 comparison chart, we can see them.
However, the Bose one has some issues regarding its bass sound and range, whereas the Beoplay A1 is flawless regarding these. Also, the Soundlink Revolve is really expensive, and the Beoplay A1 is sold at a reasonable price. So, the Beoplay A1 wins this one
Cost
Price tag wise both Bose and Bang and Olufsen products are really expensive. They both are premium brands. But B & O provides more value for money than Bose in this aspect. Most B & O speakers have premium and outstanding designs and impressive build quality.
Luxury materials are used to make those products. And not to mention the great service they provide in terms of sound and overall. Even though Bose products sound really good too, they fall behind in the design and build quality area. So, we can say B & O is better cost-wise.
Final Words
After all the discussion, we can come to a decision that both Bose and Bang & Olufsen have upper hands in different aspects. None of them is much behind or forward than the other.
Whether you should choose a Bose or B & O product, it solely depends on the specific product itself. As in some cases B & O is better, and Bose in others. It also depends on your preferences. However, for providing better value for money, Bang & Olufsen can be considered as slightly ahead of Bose.
FAQ
Take this FAQ as a parting gift from us. Hope this will help you even more!
Q: Why can’t I enable or disable active noise cancellation on my Beoplay H9 3rd Gen?
Answer: The noise cancellation can be enabled or disabled only when transparency mode is turned off. The orange indicator shows the transparency mode.
Q: My Beoplay H9i is unresponsive. What should I do?
Answer: If the headphones are connected with a USB cable, first disconnect it and then reconnect the cable and then try again. You can also try removing the battery.
Q: Can I use only one Beoplay E8 earbud?
Answer: Yes, the right one can be used solo.
Q: Do all Bose products come with a warranty?
Answer: Yes, they do.
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