Customer reviews from bose.com
Bose - Ultra Open-Ear True Wireless Open Earbuds - Driftwood Sand
Average customer rating
4.3
(3,591 Reviews)
Rating breakdown 3,591 reviews
5 Stars
2,309
4 Stars
658
3 Stars
329
2 Stars
154
1 Star
141
Customer Reviews for Bose - Ultra Open-Ear True Wireless Open Earbuds - Driftwood Sand
Customer Rating
5
Best earbuds for what they are designed for!
on February 16, 2024
Posted by: MatthewS
Gender:Male
Length of ownership:1 month
The short summary: If you are looking for high-quality sound and prioritize awareness of your environment, these earbuds excel. They are comfortable for all-day wear and perfect for outdoor activities like running. However, they do not work well for phone calls or air travel. Highly recommended for their intended use case.
Pros:
Excellent sound quality
Easy toggling between stereo and immersive sound
App allows customization of EQ settings
Easy to use controls for volume adjustment even while running
Amazing awareness of surroundings, ideal for outdoor activities like running
Very comfortable even to wear all day
Excellent sound quality
Easy toggling between stereo and immersive sound
App allows customization of EQ settings
Easy to use controls for volume adjustment even while running
Amazing awareness of surroundings, ideal for outdoor activities like running
Very comfortable even to wear all day
Cons:
The microphones are not great for phone calls
Not for air travel as there is no background noise blocking
Lack of wireless charging in case
Immersive sound may not suit all preferences and contexts
The microphones are not great for phone calls
Not for air travel as there is no background noise blocking
Lack of wireless charging in case
Immersive sound may not suit all preferences and contexts
The Full Review:
Let me start by saying that these earbuds did exactly what I had hoped they would do. I would also say they are the best at what they do, just not perfect for every situation.
Let me start by saying that these earbuds did exactly what I had hoped they would do. I would also say they are the best at what they do, just not perfect for every situation.
I own many earbuds and headphones; some people closest to me may say I have a problem, but I am very particular about having outstanding music and the ability to watch programs in every situation. Some background: I travel frequently, and I am a runner.
So, I have been looking for a high-quality pair of earbuds for running that would allow me to feel safe by not closing off the outside world. There have been too many times with my favorite pair of earbuds (the Bose QC ii) that I have not noticed a car coming up too quickly or a bicyclist on my favorite running path passing me at an unsafe speed, even the aware modes still blocked too much of the traffic or noise from a bicyclist yelling at me to watch out.
Having the opportunity to test the Ultra Open Earbuds, I was super excited, hoping that they would allow me to have great sound and good quality music while still allowing me to hear my surroundings. I've tried cone-conducting headphones and immediately realized that the vibrations bothered me greatly if I turned the volume up.
The Good: I'll start with the good; the quality of the music is great, and I like the ability to toggle between stereo and immersive sound. I find that some music sounds better in stereo mode, usually something more melodic. The immersive sound can cause some songs to sound hollow, but that's not a knock on the immersive sound. I think I am just very particular in terms of the way I want a song to sound. I will say that the bass in something like hip-hop songs does leave something to be desired, but I think I have experienced that with every pair of earbuds I've used. You really can't replace deep bass with small speakers in an earbud. I like that the app allows me to play with the EQ settings.
Continuing with the good, while I'm running, the controls are super easy to use because the buttons are large. I love the ability to adjust the volume while I'm running without touching my watch or phone.
While sitting at my desk at work, I like listening to music with ultra-open earbuds because it allows me to not be surprised if someone walks up behind me and starts talking. I have often been startled at work or annoyed by somebody who asks me a question when I use noise canceling. Using ultra-open earbuds is very much like having speakers play on your desk.
The not-so-good: The microphones do not seem to sound good for phone calls. I've tested these with family members and work colleagues willing to put up with me and have been told more than once that I sound far away.
Simply stated, these earbuds do not work well for air travel, in terms of sitting on an airplane. The background noise drowns out your ability to hear whatever you're listening to, no matter how high the volume.
I really wish wireless charging was included in all of the Bose cases. I realized this would increase the price, but I love having the ability to put this on my wireless charging pad without finding a cable.
The immersive sound can be overdone in specific contexts. I don't know if I could characterize what I like hearing in stereo versus what I like hearing immersive. Still, I think that comes down to personal preference. The immersive sound, in general, has always felt like a nice-to-have as opposed to what I must have.
I really wish wireless charging was included in all of the Bose cases. I realized this would increase the price, but I love having the ability to put this on my wireless charging pad without finding a cable.
The immersive sound can be overdone in specific contexts. I don't know if I could characterize what I like hearing in stereo versus what I like hearing immersive. Still, I think that comes down to personal preference. The immersive sound, in general, has always felt like a nice-to-have as opposed to what I must have.
Overall: I think my impression of this product, in general, is that if you are looking for earbuds that are very high-quality sound-wise and you will be using them for what they're best for, I think they're the best product on the market, the sound quality really justifies the price point.
This technology is so much better than bone-conducting that I can't imagine anybody who tries both would ever buy bone-conducting headphones again.
The Ultra Open Earbuds are so comfortable to wear as they don't pinch my ears, something I was concerned with design-wise. I wore them all day while walking around Manhattan. It felt perfectly safe not worrying about getting hit by a car or a bike by not hearing something coming up on me. These were great, and even with the cacophony of midtown sounds, the music and the volume were still at a significant level.
Don't expect to use these as your primary earbuds for work to take calls or for air travel in place of noise-canceling headphones. I, of course, would never buy open-ear earbuds for either of those use cases.
This technology is so much better than bone-conducting that I can't imagine anybody who tries both would ever buy bone-conducting headphones again.
The Ultra Open Earbuds are so comfortable to wear as they don't pinch my ears, something I was concerned with design-wise. I wore them all day while walking around Manhattan. It felt perfectly safe not worrying about getting hit by a car or a bike by not hearing something coming up on me. These were great, and even with the cacophony of midtown sounds, the music and the volume were still at a significant level.
Don't expect to use these as your primary earbuds for work to take calls or for air travel in place of noise-canceling headphones. I, of course, would never buy open-ear earbuds for either of those use cases.
Written by a customer while visiting bose.com
Customer Rating
4
Most comfortable and stylish buds on the market.
on February 17, 2024
Posted by: The Chuck
Gender:Male
Length of ownership:1 month
These are the most comfortable ear buds on the market. They feel weightless and can be worn for long periods without any discomfort. The pros: the feel as described above, the sound quality, and they are quick to charge. The cons: as a regular flyer, they have their limitations for use while on an airplane due to no noise cancellation feature. Overall great product and if not for the 1 con, would easily be a 5 star product without question.
Response from bose.comBy Global Customer Service, February 27, 2024
Thanks for reviewing the Ultra Open Earbuds! I'm happy to see that you find the earbuds very comfortable to wear, and that you've been enjoying the Bose sound. It is true that the Ultra Open Earbuds don't have noise cancellation, however this is due to their open-ear design. Warm regards, Fiona M. - Customer Support
Written by a customer while visiting bose.com
Customer Rating
4
Need comfort? Look no further!
on February 16, 2024
Posted by: Jolene R
Gender:Female
Length of ownership:1 month
I really love these earbuds! I wasn’t sure about the design at first but once I put them on I was very surprised at how comfortable they are. They are very lightweight and it doesn’t feel like I have anything in my ears. They stay secure even when I’m working out or running. TBH I am actually a huge fan of being able to hear what’s going on around me so I love that they are not noise canceling. I feel much safer and am able to hear my kids. I’m not a huge fan of having to wear both in order to be able turn the volume up and down. The battery life is excellent also. I do think they are hard to get used to and are not quite as user friendly as my other earbuds and they do cut in and out during calls so that’s not cool. And it would be awesome if I was able to track them. But overall I like them much better than any other earbuds I own!
Response from bose.comBy Global Customer Service, February 27, 2024
Thanks for your review of the Ultra Open Earbuds! I'm happy to hear they've become your favorite earbuds, with a secure fit, convincing comfort and a pleasing amount of battery endurance.
Due to their unique design, the earbuds can take a little getting used to. However, if you're experiencing audio or connection cutouts during calls, then I would advise that you get in touch with your local support team, so that we can take a look at these: https://support.bose.com/s/get-help-landing-page?language=en_US
Warm regards
Fiona M. - Customer Support
Due to their unique design, the earbuds can take a little getting used to. However, if you're experiencing audio or connection cutouts during calls, then I would advise that you get in touch with your local support team, so that we can take a look at these: https://support.bose.com/s/get-help-landing-page?language=en_US
Warm regards
Fiona M. - Customer Support
Written by a customer while visiting bose.com
Customer Rating
5
Best of both worlds!
on February 16, 2024
Posted by: dvill48
Gender:Female
Length of ownership:1 month
I have been using these earbuds for a couple of weeks now and I have been loving them for multiple reasons. They are a perfect fit for my specific needs. First of all, the sound is amazingly rich, crisp, and clear and offers an enjoyable listening experience (especially with the immersive audio technology). Secondly, the open design allows me to be present as a mother while allowing uninterrupted musical enjoyment. Being able to maintain awareness is also important in other situations for me (such as when I am out hiking). The open design is also great for my sensory sensitivities. Other earbuds create a sort of pressurized feeling in my ear and can’t be tolerated for long periods of time. These are comfortable for prolonged use and, for lack of better wording, allow my ear the “breathe”. I like the way in which they securely hug your ear and stay in place (through yoga, dancing, and walking).
There was initially a slight issue with incoming sound on phone calls, but that improved when caller switched from speaker. I have not encountered the same issue again so far.
The lack of noise cancellation might not make these a good fit for some, but I have other noise-canceling headphones/ear buds (which don’t fit my need to be present - and end up not being used).
I say these are the best of both worlds because they provide uninterrupted quality sound for music enjoyment while also allowing the user to maintain presence/awareness of the world around them. As a person with sound sensitivities, these open earbuds are an amazing tool for when the world is a little too full of sounds I’d rather not focus on. I can put these on, turn on my music, and be instantly transported to a pleasant auditory environment away from the cacophony of everyday environment noise (traffic, my rambunctious gaming teens, and other’s conversations).
Written by a customer while visiting bose.com
Customer Rating
5
Another winner!
on February 16, 2024
Posted by: DrGonzo393
Gender:Female
Length of ownership:1 week
The sound is amazing on these earbuds (a quality that only Bose can deliver). They are easy to put on and are quite comfortable to wear. The only downside is that they don’t have dual connectivity. However, you can program your earbuds to toggle between devices using the buttons on your earbuds. The app is easy to use and is very informative. All in all, an excellent product.
Written by a customer while visiting bose.com
Customer Rating
5
Great fit, lightweight, and sounds amazing!
on February 16, 2024
Posted by: Keith319
Gender:Male
Length of ownership:1 month
I'm an over the ear headphone fanatic. I've purchased and given away earbuds on multiple occasions. These will not be added to that category. I've been hooked on these earbuds for a few weeks now. With three kids, I gotta stay alert, but that doesn't mean I can't enjoy some good music, my favorite podcast, or YouTube! These fit that bill perfectly.
The sound is surprisingly full and clear, especially with that immersive audio Bose implemented. But the best part? I can still hear the kids getting into trouble... sometimes before it happens. Talk about a dad superpower!
I also struggle with earbuds that feel too tight, but these are in a different class of comfort. They hug my ears just right, even when I'm chasing the dog or finishing a HIIT workout they fit perfectly. Honestly, they're the most comfortable earbuds I've ever tried.
Only had one slight sound issue but it was when the "still" immersive sound was quiet despite not moving my head to activate it. It was quickly fixed by stopping my music and starting it again.
Lastly, combining this amazing sound quality and immersive sound attributes with a VR is the perfect combination!!
Written by a customer while visiting bose.com
Customer Rating
5
Finally ear buds that stay put
on February 17, 2024
Posted by: Chad
Gender:Male
Length of ownership:1 month
Immediately I noticed this is the design I was needing to work with the shape of my ears. I’ve been through at least 5 different ear buds of various brands and none of them would fit securely or comfortably. These do both very well! So light I hardly notice them, and I don’t have to worry about them dropping out of my ears. Well done Bose! I do miss the depth of sound I have with my QC ultras but that’s to be expected with the open design.
The sound quality is what you would expect from Bose, clear highs, strong lows. Additionally, the same tuning and customization as the QC Ultras is available on these, except for the noise canceling. The two immersion modes offer variety in your listening experience. This feature really opens up the sound and allows you to feel a part of the music, especially if you’re trying to focus on the details.
Lastly, I appreciate the compact size of the charging case. It seems most earbud cases are getting larger nowadays, but not these. The case fits comfortably in my front hip pocket and will even fit in the coin pocket of some of my jeans.
Written by a customer while visiting bose.com
Customer Rating
5
Great Sound For All Ears
on February 17, 2024
Posted by: RB19
Gender:Male
Length of ownership:1 week
From the moment I opened these earbuds up I was completely impressed. The fit, finish and feel of these Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are just as wonderful as any other Bose product. The sound quality blew me away. Initially, I wasn't sure what to expect with this open ear design but I think Bose got it right.
Pairing these to my iPhone was super simple and in no time, I was listening to music after unboxing them. I have Bose speakers that I use for listening to music and podcasts while at home and work but the Ultra Open Earbuds are my first Bose headphones or earbuds. I was immediately impressed by the full bodied and robust sound. The Ultra Opens are controlled and updated through the Bose Music which I found to be intuitive and a nice way to control the features.
I typically only use earbuds while doing outside work such as cutting grass or splitting wood but I found myself using these more than I have other earbuds. I literally just put them on and lived my life. I recommend these to anyone that has fit issues with other typical in ear earbuds. After the first 20 minutes of using the Ultra Opens I forgot I was wearing them. They're very lightweight and comfortable and I didn't experience any fatigue or discomfort after wearing them for nearly three straight hours. Also, they have some moisture resistance but DO NOT submerge them.
The Immersion Mode is a wonderful feature to have at this premium price point. It made me feel like I was at a live performance. I assume due to the open ear design, noise cancelling isn't a feature of these earbuds but honestly I don't care. The sound quality is that phenominal and it allows you to still be aware of your surroundings. For that reason, I recommend these to parents and caretakers that need to be able to hear outside of your own little sound cocoon. I can also see the benefits these would have for city dwellers or anyone that walks or exercises near traffic or crowded places. You can still be aware of what's going on around you without sacrificing great sound.
I probably won't use these to cut grass or work around any loud machinery, but I don't see any other situation where these won't be my go to earbud. I just love that I can put them in and forget them. They have increased my use of earbuds.
The only "cons" for me aren't even real dealbreakers. They don't have any sort of tracking feature in case of loss or theft. I have a pretty good history of not losing expensive items (fingers crossed while I knock on wood). Also, the case doesn't have wireless charging. In my experience, that is okay because the battery life has been phenomenal in the case and the individual earbuds. Wireless case charging and tracking would be wonderful convenience features to have but the sound quality, ease of use and comfort of the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds make up for those omissions.
Pairing these to my iPhone was super simple and in no time, I was listening to music after unboxing them. I have Bose speakers that I use for listening to music and podcasts while at home and work but the Ultra Open Earbuds are my first Bose headphones or earbuds. I was immediately impressed by the full bodied and robust sound. The Ultra Opens are controlled and updated through the Bose Music which I found to be intuitive and a nice way to control the features.
I typically only use earbuds while doing outside work such as cutting grass or splitting wood but I found myself using these more than I have other earbuds. I literally just put them on and lived my life. I recommend these to anyone that has fit issues with other typical in ear earbuds. After the first 20 minutes of using the Ultra Opens I forgot I was wearing them. They're very lightweight and comfortable and I didn't experience any fatigue or discomfort after wearing them for nearly three straight hours. Also, they have some moisture resistance but DO NOT submerge them.
The Immersion Mode is a wonderful feature to have at this premium price point. It made me feel like I was at a live performance. I assume due to the open ear design, noise cancelling isn't a feature of these earbuds but honestly I don't care. The sound quality is that phenominal and it allows you to still be aware of your surroundings. For that reason, I recommend these to parents and caretakers that need to be able to hear outside of your own little sound cocoon. I can also see the benefits these would have for city dwellers or anyone that walks or exercises near traffic or crowded places. You can still be aware of what's going on around you without sacrificing great sound.
I probably won't use these to cut grass or work around any loud machinery, but I don't see any other situation where these won't be my go to earbud. I just love that I can put them in and forget them. They have increased my use of earbuds.
The only "cons" for me aren't even real dealbreakers. They don't have any sort of tracking feature in case of loss or theft. I have a pretty good history of not losing expensive items (fingers crossed while I knock on wood). Also, the case doesn't have wireless charging. In my experience, that is okay because the battery life has been phenomenal in the case and the individual earbuds. Wireless case charging and tracking would be wonderful convenience features to have but the sound quality, ease of use and comfort of the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds make up for those omissions.
Written by a customer while visiting bose.com