Bose is known for blending innovation with high-performance audio, and the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds take that ethos in a new direction. With a bold design that clips around your ear instead of plugging into it, these earbuds offer a distinct open-ear listening experience—perfect for users who want situational awareness without sacrificing sound quality. But do these truly wireless earbuds live up to their $249 price tag? Let’s dive deep.
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds feature a truly unique design that sits just outside your ear canal, using OpenAudio Technology to deliver private, high-quality sound that doesn’t block out the world. Whether you’re walking down a busy street or chatting at the gym, these earbuds let you stay aware of your surroundings while still enjoying immersive audio.
Thanks to Bose Immersive Audio, the sound is spatialized, making you feel like you’re in the middle of your music rather than just listening to it. The clip-on design is built for comfort and versatility. With a lightweight, flexible grip, these earbuds hook behind your ear effortlessly without pressure or pinching—ideal even for users with small ears.
Durability is addressed with IPX4 water resistance, protecting the earbuds from splashes and sweat. Battery life is another highlight: up to 7 hours of playtime (4 hours with immersive mode) and an additional 2.5 charges via the case, extending the total standby time up to 48 hours.
Bluetooth multipoint connectivity allows seamless switching between multiple devices, and SimpleSync technology lets you pair them with other Bose smart products for synchronized audio experiences, like private TV listening. For added convenience, physical button controls allow easy playback, mode switching, and call handling.
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are priced at $249.00 in the United States. While this places them in the premium wireless earbuds category, Bose positions them as a unique alternative for users who prioritize comfort, awareness, and immersive listening without total isolation.
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The standout feature here is the clip-on open-ear design, which is both functional and fashionable. Unlike traditional in-ear models, these earbuds rest comfortably outside the canal, making them ideal for extended use. Many users with smaller ears have praised the comfort, highlighting the “barely-there” feel and absence of pressure.
Here’s where opinions start to diverge. Immersive Audio really shines, creating a wide soundstage that elevates music and content. However, while many users enjoy the spatial sound and minimal leakage, others have found the audio lacking in richness and bass, especially in noisy environments. If you’re coming from noise-canceling earbuds, the open design may feel like a downgrade in clarity.
The Bluetooth multipoint feature is well-received, allowing users to switch easily between devices. Controls are physical buttons rather than touch-based, which some users prefer for precision. Connection stability has had mixed reviews—most users report smooth performance, but a few mention occasional dropouts or syncing issues.
Battery life stands out with up to 7 hours of usage and an impressive 48-hour standby time. Even with immersive mode enabled, you get 4 hours per charge, which is decent for this category. The case provides extra longevity with two and a half full charges.
If you're someone who values situational awareness, comfort, and immersive audio over noise isolation, the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are a solid choice. Their unique clip-on design offers all-day comfort, especially for people who dislike in-ear pressure or have difficulty with traditional earbud fits.
However, if you're looking for deep bass, total noise cancellation, or maximum value for money, you might want to explore other options in the same price range—like the Sony WF-1000XM5 or AirPods Pro.
In short, the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds cater to a specific type of listener. If that’s you, the experience could be worth the price. For others, they may feel more like a niche luxury than a daily essential.
Q1. What makes the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds different from other earbuds?
The unique open-ear, clip-on design allows you to hear your surroundings while enjoying private, immersive sound with Bose’s OpenAudio technology.
Q2. How is the sound quality of the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds?
The sound is clear with spatialized Immersive Audio, though some users find it less rich compared to noise-canceling earbuds, especially in loud environments.
Q3. Are the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds comfortable for long use?
Yes, they are highly rated for comfort, especially for people with small ears. The flexible, behind-the-ear design eliminates pressure from the ear canal.
Q4. How long does the battery last on Bose Ultra Open Earbuds?
You get up to 7 hours of playtime (4 with immersive audio), and the charging case provides 2.5 extra charges, offering up to 48 hours of standby.
Q5. Are the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds worth the price?
It depends on your needs. They’re ideal for users who prioritize awareness and comfort over noise isolation. For bass-heavy or isolated sound, alternatives may suit better.
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