Bose
Bose QC 35 II
Over-ear · 2017
84
/ 100
From $349
VS
Grado
Grado SR325x
Open-back
84
/ 100
From $349
Specdex verdict
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, Bose QC 35 II lands at 84 and Grado SR325x at 84. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick Bose QC 35 II if…
- ✓Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
- ✓Premium build
- ✓Active noise cancellation (most models)
Pick Grado SR325x if…
- ✓Reference-level detail
- ✓Well-regarded in audiophile community
- ✓Long-term ownership appeal
Bose QC 35 II 84
vs 84 Grado SR325x
Score breakdown
Bose QC 35 II
84 anc 82
sound 84
comfort 83
battery 82
features 80
Grado SR325x
84 anc 0
sound 84
comfort 88
battery 100
features 50
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Bose QC 35 II | Grado SR325x |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-ear | Open-back |
| Release year | 2017 | — |
Bose QC 35 II
Pros
- +Flagship comfort + ANC on modern models
- +Premium build
- +Active noise cancellation (most models)
Cons
- −Battery varies by codec
- −Some are Bluetooth-only
- −Price creep vs previous gen
Grado SR325x
Pros
- +Reference-level detail
- +Well-regarded in audiophile community
- +Long-term ownership appeal
Cons
- −Requires amplifier (most)
- −No active noise cancellation
- −Impractical for commuting
FAQ: Bose QC 35 II vs Grado SR325x
Which is better, Bose QC 35 II or Grado SR325x? +
Both score 84 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Bose QC 35 II worth the price? +
At $349, Bose QC 35 II delivers a Specdex score of 84 — strongest in sound.
Is Grado SR325x worth the price? +
At $349, Grado SR325x delivers a Specdex score of 84 — strongest in battery.
Does Bose QC 35 II or Grado SR325x last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.