Compare Marshall Monitor III A.N.C. Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Headphones

ANC is consistently described as solid to above average and improved versus the prior model, but most sources still place it behind top-tier Bose or Sony performance. You can adjust ANC strength in the app and set how the ANC button cycles modes; the common complaint is the lack of true adaptive ANC that auto-adjusts for you.

ANC is consistently described as class-leading, excelling on planes, trains, and busy streets; a few note rare odd behavior with extremely loud peaks. Noise canceling is highly adjustable through modes and a 10-step slider, often with wind control, but several reviewers dislike the lack of a true ANC-off state.

Android support is good for basics (pairing features, LE Audio readiness), but Android users who want aptX or LDAC will find those codecs missing.

Android works well for basics, but best codec features depend on compatible Snapdragon hardware and may fall back to AAC on some popular phones.

The Marshall app is generally well-liked for being clean and functional, giving access to firmware, EQ, ANC levels, control customization, and battery-care features.

The Bose Music app is easy to navigate for modes, updates, and basic customization, but power users may find it simpler than competing apps.

Reviews that address aptX note it is not supported, which can be a downside for some Android users.

aptX Adaptive/Lossless is a notable perk for supported phones, but real-world availability varies and some reviews warn of inconsistent handset support.

Some reviewers flag potential latency for gaming because low-latency Bluetooth codecs are missing; wired USB-C listening is the safer option when sync matters.

Bass hits with satisfying punch and extension for most listeners, but it is not a true bass-cannon and some reviewers want a stronger bass-boost or tighter control.

Bass is strong and punchy; fans call it controlled and fun, while detractors describe it as too heavy or less controlled without EQ.

Battery life is the headline feature: 70 hours with ANC on and up to 100 hours with ANC off is repeatedly highlighted and often backed up by real-world use. The battery is not generally described as user-replaceable; Marshall instead focuses on battery preservation settings to help extend lifespan.

Battery life is typically described as mid-pack (around 24 hours), with Immersive Audio often cutting it to roughly 18 hours; some find it acceptable, others call it a weakness.

Bluetooth stability is generally reliable in daily use, with Bluetooth 5.3 and LE Audio readiness mentioned and few drop-out complaints.

Bluetooth connection is generally stable with good range, with occasional reports of finickiness on some computers.

Build quality is generally rugged and travel-ready with an emphasis on durability and repairability, though a few sources mention minor creaks or quirks.

Build is seen as solid but not the most premium; a few report rattles or long-term wear concerns, while others find it durable enough for daily travel.

The multi-directional control knob and dedicated buttons are widely praised as intuitive, tactile, and easier to use than touch controls.

Controls mix physical buttons with a touch strip; many like the simple layout, but some dislike multi-press functions and loud button clicks.

Cable quality and design are serviceable, with included cables for charging and wired use, but some miss the older coiled cable style or find adapters less convenient.

The included hard case gets high marks for protection and premium feel (velvet interior, compact footprint), though a few find it thick or bulgy.

The hard, zippered carrying case is frequently praised as compact and protective, usually including storage for cables and accessories.

Charging is fast and convenient via USB-C, with common claims of about 12 hours of playback from a short charge and full recharge around a couple of hours.

Charging performance is strong, with fast-charge claims commonly cited and the ability to top up quickly for a few hours of listening.

Clamping force is generally light, with multiple reviewers reporting minimal pressure and little to no head squeeze.

Clamping force is usually described as gentle and well-judged; the comfort-focused clamp can reduce stability for vigorous movement.

Codec support is basic for the price: SBC and AAC are the norm, with some mentions of LE Audio/LC3, but there is no mainstream hi-res Bluetooth path.

Codec support centers on SBC/AAC plus Snapdragon Sound with aptX Adaptive/Lossless on compatible devices; Bluetooth 5.3 and LE Audio readiness are mentioned, though rollout varies.

Long-session comfort is a standout: low weight, plush pads, and pressure-distributing headband design earn frequent praise, with only occasional complaints about heat buildup.

Long-wear comfort is a standout: lightweight feel, soft cushioning, and glasses-friendly fit make it easy to wear for hours.

Design is classic Marshall amp-inspired with textured finishes and brass/gold accents; it feels premium to fans but can be polarizing for those who prefer modern styling.

Design is understated and modern with premium touches, but several reviewers call it low-key and wish it stood out more.

Earcup padding is repeatedly described as very plush and supportive, improving seal and comfort, though it can feel warm over extended wear.

Ear pads are widely praised as plush, but some long-term use reports mention compression/divots and concerns about thin pleather longevity.

Multiple reviews mention wide swivel/rotation and folding behavior that helps the headphones sit flat, pack smaller, and fit securely into the compact case.

The 5-band EQ is responsive and helpful for tailoring the signature sound, though it is not as granular as more advanced EQ systems.

EQ is available but limited (often described as a 3-band slider with modest sensitivity), so deep tuning is not a strength.

Adjustment and fit mechanisms are practical, with discrete steps and a comfort strap/headband design that helps distribute pressure and maintain a stable seal.

Headband adjustment is smooth and fits a wide range of head sizes, helping distribute pressure for comfort.

Hinges and structure are often described as bendy and durable, but at least one review notes odd twisting behavior when you turn your head.

The dual-hinge folding design improves packability; most find it sturdy, though pinch points and occasional rattles are mentioned.

Included accessories are typically strong for the category: a hard case plus cables for charging and USB-C-to-3.5mm wired listening are commonly noted.

Instrument separation is typically above average with clear placement, but layering can compress or get congested as mixes get busier.

Separation and imaging are strong, but a few sources mention channel matching or processing can affect spatial cues.

Reviews that address LDAC note it is not supported, reinforcing that these prioritize battery life and simplicity over hi-res wireless codecs.

At higher volumes, many report clean playback with little obvious distortion, though a few note dynamic compression or a ceiling that flattens crescendos.

Clarity generally holds up at higher volumes, with multiple reviewers noting strong detail retention when turned up.

Noise handling on calls is a relative strength, with several tests showing good wind and background-noise suppression, though a few note it can still struggle in very noisy offices.

Noise reduction for calls is often effective in busy environments, but some tests still capture background announcements or office noise.

Call quality ranges from clear in quiet environments to merely decent in louder settings; it is generally usable for everyday calls but not always meeting-grade.

Call quality reviews are mixed: some describe it as excellent with clear voice pickup, while others report graininess, robotic tone, or dropouts in meetings.

Midrange is generally strong for guitars and vocals, though some note either a slight mid dip (snare/vocals) or occasional mid-forward congestion on busy tracks.

Midrange is generally clear and present, though some note it can sit behind the bass depending on track and tuning.

Cross-platform use is strong overall, working well with iOS, Android, and computers for everyday listening.

Multipoint is widely reported to work well for two devices, though some wish for a device-management list and note occasional confusion when mixing wired and Bluetooth sources.

Multipoint is supported and usually reliable, enabling easy switching between phone and laptop; switching behavior can be manual depending on use.

Passive isolation is strong thanks to a very good seal from the pads, helping block higher-frequency noise even before ANC is enabled.

Large, plush pads create a strong seal that boosts passive isolation and supports the overall noise-reduction performance.

Portability is excellent: the cups swivel/fold and the headphones collapse into a very compact shape that fits a small travel case.

Fold-up-and-flat portability is a key advantage, helping the headphones and case take up less space than some rivals.

Preset EQ profiles are useful and easy to swap, with bass-boost and other tonal shifts helping different genres, though a few reviewers find boosts could go further.

Preset EQ profiles exist (for example bass/treble focused presets), but the selection and granularity are limited compared with rivals.

Replaceable earpads are a strong point, with twist-off pads that are easy to remove and swap, supporting long-term maintenance.

Earpads are removable/replaceable according to at least one review, which is a plus for long-term maintenance, though long-term pad wear and compression are still discussed.

Wear detection is available for auto play/pause, but experiences vary from fine to slightly slow or occasionally over-sensitive; it can usually be disabled.

Sensors enable wear detection, auto-pause/resume, and sleep/auto-off behavior that helps conserve battery, though detection can feel slow for some.

The black finish can show fingerprints and smudges more than lighter colorways.

Setup is straightforward and the app layout is easy to navigate, but some reviewers note missing premium conveniences like adaptive ANC behavior or deeper device management.

Setup is generally straightforward with fast pairing on supported devices; a few note slower on-head detection or reconnection in daily use.

Across reviews, sound is lively and engaging with a clear lean toward rock-focused tuning, but it stays enjoyable for many genres once EQ is applied. Wired listening works via USB-C using the included cable and is often described as clean and low-latency, but convenience varies because there is no built-in 3.5mm jack and some report you may need power for wired use.

Overall sound is widely described as rich, detailed, and engaging with a bass-forward tilt; some reviewers still prefer more neutral or more detailed rivals.

Soundstage is decent for a closed-back ANC headphone but not the widest; some tracks can feel narrow or cluttered unless you use the Soundstage processing.

Soundstage is above average for closed-back ANC headphones, and Immersive Audio can widen it further with varying success.

Soundstage/spatial processing is a fun extra with adjustable room feel, but most agree it is not true immersive spatial audio and can sound synthetic on some tracks.

Immersive/spatial audio can widen the presentation for some content, but many find it inconsistent or overly processed and note the battery hit.

Stability on the head is excellent for desk and travel use, but some reviewers report slipping/falling during dynamic workouts or bending.

Several reviews highlight recycled or sustainability-minded materials, positioning these as more eco-considerate than many direct rivals.

The touch volume strip/slider is often described as responsive and easy by feel, though some users report accidental volume jumps.

Transparency mode is usable and adjustable, but opinions vary: some find it natural and clear, while others notice hiss and weaker reproduction of deeper voices.

Transparency/Aware mode is repeatedly praised as natural and low-hiss, close to AirPods Max quality and especially useful for office awareness.

Treble is crisp and energetic, yet several reviews mention brightness, sibilance, or fatigue on higher notes unless you tame it with EQ.

Treble is typically detailed and crisp without harshness, though a few describe it as slightly distant or affected by processing.

USB-C is the single physical port for charging and wired audio, which keeps things simple but also means no dedicated 3.5mm jack.

USB-C is charging-only; lack of USB-C digital audio passthrough is a repeated complaint for a flagship-priced model.

Voice assistant access is supported through the customizable button and app settings, making it easy to trigger assistants or shortcuts without touching your phone.

Voice assistant access is typically supported via a customizable shortcut, making hands-free control convenient for many users.

The headphones get loud without needing extreme volume, with multiple reviewers noting comfortable listening well below 100% volume.

Maximum volume output is described as very loud with ample headroom.

There is no stated water or sweat resistance rating in the reviews, so these are best kept away from rain and workouts.

There is no IP rating, and multiple reviews advise against heavy sweat or rain exposure despite the headphones handling normal daily use.

Weight is consistently called light for the class (around the mid-200g range), contributing strongly to comfort and portability.

Weight is generally considered light for the class (around 250g), contributing to reduced fatigue over long sessions.