Bose vs Bang and Olufsen: Model by Model Review

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 ComparisonBeoplay E8 Bose Soundsport Free
Wireless UsageYesYes
Device Control PanelYesYes
Weight13 g18.14 g
Noise Cancelling MicrophoneNoNo
Stereo SpeakersYesYes
In-Ear FormYesNo
Splash proofNoYes
Active Noise CancellationNoNo
Passive Noise ReductionYesNo
Neodymium MagnetYesNo
Battery Life4 hours5 hours
Rechargeable BatteryYesYes
Battery Level IndicatorYesYes
Charge Time2 hours2 hours
Bluetooth Version4.24.1
Bluetooth Pairing Using NFCNoNo
WiFi SupportNoNo
Sweat ResistanceYesYes
Voice PromptsNoYes
Mute FunctionYesNo

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 ComparisonBeoplay H9iBose QuietComfort 35 II
Stereo SpeakersYesYes
Over-Ear FormYesYes
Wireless UsageYesYes
Detachable CableYesYes
Folding OptionsNoYes
Weight295 g309 g
Frequency Range20 Hz- 22000 Hz10 Hz- 20000 Hz
Active Noise CancellationYesYes
Passive Noise ReductionNoYes
Rechargeable BatteryYesYes
Battery Level IndicatorYesYes
USB Type CYesNo
Removable BatteryYesNo
Battery Life23 hours20 hours
WiFi SupportNoNo
Bluetooth Version4.24.1
Noise Cancelling MicNoYes
Number of Microphones62
Device Control PanelYesYes
Voice PromptsYesYes
Sweat ResistanceNoNo
Xbox+ PS CompatibilityNoYes
Warranty2 years1 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 ComparisonBose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700B&O Beoplay H9
Over-Ear FormYesYes
Weight0.55 lbs0.63 lbs
Dimensions2” x 6.5” x 8”2.05” x 7.87” x 7.76”
ANC Levels113
Touch ControlsYesYes
Foldable DesignSwivelSwivel
Voice AssistantYesYes
Colors36
Stereo SpeakersYesYes
Wireless UsageYesYes
Detachable CableYesYes
Sweat ResistanceYesNo
Water ResistanceNoNo
Active Noise CancellationYesYes
Passive Noise ReductionYesNo
Battery Level IndicatorNoYes
Battery Life20 hours25 hours
Removable BatteryNoYes
Noise Cancelling MicYesYes
Number of Mics86
Bluetooth Version54.2
Device Control PanelYesYes
Mute FunctionYesNo
AppBose MusicBang & 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.

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

FeaturesBose CorporationBang and Olufsen
TechnologyActive 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
DurabilityHighHigh
Overall Battery LifeLess than B & OHigher than Bose
Streaming ServicesSpotify
Deezer
TuneIn
YouTube Music
AirPlay 2
Spotify
Deezer
TuneIn
QPlay
AirPlay 2
Line-In
Voice AssistantsAmazon Alexa
Google Assistant
Google Assistant
Siri
Alexa
AppsBose MusicBang & Olufsen

B & O Beoplay A1 vs Bose Soundlink Revolve:

Comparison Chart

Ground of ComparisonBeoplay A1 Bose Soundlink Revolve
Wireless UsageYesYes
Drivers Count21
Device Control PanelYesYes
Splash ProofYesYes
Neodymium MagnetNoYes
Stereo SpeakersNoNo
SubwooferYesNo
Passive RadiatorNoYes
Rechargeable BatteryYesYes
Battery Level IndicatorYesYes
Battery Life24 hours12 hours
Wireless ChargingNoNo
Charge Time2.5 hours4 hours
AUX InputYesYes
WiFi SupportNoNo
Bluetooth Version4.24.2
3.5 mm Audio Jack SocketYesNo
USB Ports11
Remote Smartphone SupportYesYes
Mute FunctionYesNo
Voice CommandYesYes
Voice PromptsYesYes

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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