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Bose QuietComfort Earbuds — True-wireless · 2020
Bose

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds

True-wireless · 2020

82
/ 100
From $279
VS
AirPods 3 — True-wireless · 2021
Apple

AirPods 3

True-wireless · 2021

82
/ 100
From $179
Specdex verdict

Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.

In our weighted Specdex score, Bose QuietComfort Earbuds lands at 82 and AirPods 3 at 82. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.

Pick Bose QuietComfort Earbuds if…

  • ✓Compact carry
  • ✓Platform integration (brand-dependent)
  • ✓Quick pair

Pick AirPods 3 if…

  • ✓Compact carry
  • ✓Platform integration (brand-dependent)
  • ✓Quick pair
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Winner by scenario

Derived from the sub-score breakdown · not a separate test

Sound

Tie

Compared on the sound sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Comfort

Tie

Compared on the comfort sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Noise cancelling

Tie

Compared on the noise cancelling sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Value for money

AirPods 3

Specdex score per dollar at MSRP

AirPods 3 more score per dollar ($179 vs $279).

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 82
vs
82 AirPods 3

Score breakdown

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
82
anc 79
sound 81
comfort 80
battery 78
features 78
AirPods 3
82
anc 79
sound 81
comfort 80
battery 78
features 78

Specs side-by-side

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds versus AirPods 3 — full spec comparison
Spec Bose QuietComfort Earbuds AirPods 3
Type
True-wireless
True-wireless
Release year
2020
2021

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds

Pros
  • +Compact carry
  • +Platform integration (brand-dependent)
  • +Quick pair
Cons
  • −Battery life limited
  • −Fit varies by ear
  • −Case bulkier than pod

AirPods 3

Pros
  • +Compact carry
  • +Platform integration (brand-dependent)
  • +Quick pair
Cons
  • −Battery life limited
  • −Fit varies by ear
  • −Case bulkier than pod

FAQ: Bose QuietComfort Earbuds vs AirPods 3

Which is better, Bose QuietComfort Earbuds or AirPods 3? +

Both score 82 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.

Is Bose QuietComfort Earbuds worth the price? +

At $279, Bose QuietComfort Earbuds delivers a Specdex score of 82 — strongest in sound.

Is AirPods 3 worth the price? +

At $179, AirPods 3 delivers a Specdex score of 82 — strongest in sound.

Does Bose QuietComfort Earbuds or AirPods 3 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.

Which is the better value, Bose QuietComfort Earbuds or AirPods 3? +

AirPods 3 — more score per dollar ($179 vs $279). Specdex score per dollar at MSRP.