Bose has launched the Pulse model in 2016 and I am comparing it in 2018! Yes, you are right .. but remember Bose can be compared only with Bose and no one else !!
Pulse for fitness freaks:
So here I wish to find out difference in between the best seller sport headphones from Bose, the base Soundsport model and its high end variation Pulse, which is capable of measuring your heart-rate, which is a must for fitness freak persons.
Both these headphones are good for running or bicycling due to its open design which allows listening to the ambient noises like traffic & people around, providing safety during outdoor exercises.
So lets begin by looking at the similarities and differences or improvements with respect to each other, this will give you an idea of which one you should buy out of these two.
Common features in between both Bose Soundsport & Pulse Wireless headphones:
- Inline mic: Easy to receive calls
Both features an inline mic/remote which will let you Answer/End calls, Play/Pause tracks as well as adjust Volume without touching your phone. - Multi-function button: including Voice command initiation
Their is a larger middle button called as the multi-function button, using which you can Play/pause tracks for videos and music, Answers and ends calls
Same button can also initiate voice commands such as Siri, Google Now or voice dial - SweatProof / Splashproof: IPX4 rated
Both headphones have their acoustic ports are positioned in such a way that they resist sweat and weather, further Bose have used Hydrophobic cloth which keeps the moisture out. - Easy NFC Pairing:
Both are powered with Near Field Communication (NFC) paring capability, which means if you place your mobile and inline remote of your Soundsport headphones less than 4 in (10 cm) then the Bluetooth pairing happens automatically, you need not search for the headphones and press pairing button. - Free Bose Connect App:
- Access to Auto-off timer, Volume control and Battery readings.
- Music Share:
You can simply connect two wireless Bose headphones simultaneously to share music from your mobile device, which means you and your friend can listen to the same song using single mobile, saving power as well as enjoyment together 🙂 The algorithm simplifies splitting music from one source, which is controlled from the Bose connect app. - Bluetooth Device Switch:
With a quick swipe from your phone, it is easy to go from a call on your smartphone to music on your tablet or laptop, pretty useful feature indeed.
Whats New in Bose Soundsport Pulse compared to Soundsport?
- Built-in heart rate sensor: Compatible with most fitness Apps in market
Yes, Pulse features a Highly accurate built-in heart rate sensor from PerformTek Precision Biometrics which is a patented technology, that will continuously measure your real time biometric data BPM. This concept is reddot award winner in the year 2017.
Good thing is that this Pulse technology uses communication protocol Bluetooth 4.0 which also works with popular fitness apps like MapMyRun, Runkeeper, Strava, Endomondo, Runtastic and Apple HealthKit. - Music Playtime:
New Pulse have more sophisticated technology which delivers 6 hours of continuous music playtime, which is more than an hour compared to the basic Soundsport model - StayHear+ Pulse tips for stability:
Both headphones feature new improved StayHear+eartips, which are also made of a similar soft silicone material as the original StayHear tips, what is improved is the unique shape which creates a gentle seal at the entrance of the ear canal, isolating exterior noises hence improving the overall listening experience.
Over and above this the specially designed extended flexible wing provides support and improved stability during the workouts and running.
What is Different in Pulse tips?
SoundSport Pulse wireless headphones use a small cutout in StayHear+ tips which are needed to accommodate the sensor window.
Please note that because of this difference the StayHear+ Pulse tips cannot be used on the SoundSport wireless headphones!
Bose Soundsport vs Soundsport Pulse Wireless Headphones Specs Comparison
| Wireless Headphones Comparison | Bose Soundsport | Soundsport Pulse |
| Best buy offer | Best Buy | Best Buy |
| Wireless range | up to 30 ft (9 m) | |
| Built-in heart rate sensor | No | Yes Built-in heart rate sensor |
| Inline mic | Yes | |
| Sweat and weather resistant | IPX4 rating (Splashproof) | |
| Music Playtime | Up to 5 hours | Up to 6 hours |
| Easy NFC Pairing | Yes | |
| Ear tips with wings | 3 sizes of StayHear+ Sport tips. | 3 sizes of StayHear+ Pulse tips. |
| Free Bose Connect App | Yes | |
| Music share | Yes | |
| Bluetooth device switch | Yes | |
| Battery Charging time | 2 hours a quick 15-minute charge provides approx one hour of music play time. |
|
| Battery | lithium-ion | |
| Clothing clip | No | Yes |
| Dimensions without the cable | 1.2″ H x 1″ W x 1.2” D | 1.1″ H x 0.9″ W x 1.2″ D |
| Weight w/o cable | 0.8 oz | 0.81 oz |
Final words selecting Bose Soundsport vs Soundsport Pulse:
Pulse is really meant for a fitness freak who wants to take out the fitness to the next level, with its heart rate monitor which fulfills one of the major demand for fitness goers.
I think rest things remaining same in between the two, what you will be paying premium in Pulse is purely for the heart rate monitor, so you can decide which one you wish to choose for.
Hope this helps!
cheers !!