Bose QuietComfort headphones: One-minute evaluate
The Bose QuietComfort over-ear headphones landed in September 2023. Though there’s now a (barely) newer and extra premium mannequin from the model available on the market, the usual QuietComfort cans are nonetheless properly price contemplating. That’s as a result of they current consumers with the entire fundamentals, like nice consolation ranges, sound and ANC, achieved extremely properly with the Bose seal of approval.
Let’s get any confusion out of the way in which first. The place do these headphones sit within the Bose line-up? Rewind again to 2021 and the Bose Quietcomfort 45 over-ear headphones have been launched. The newer over-ear headphones we’re reviewing right here, formally named simply Bose QuietComfort, got here out in September 2023 to switch them. Bose launched the QuietComfort Ultra only a month later, in October 2023, however it’s greatest to consider them as a stable step up from the QuietComfort headphones we’re reviewing right here, making our best noise-cancelling headphones and best over-ear headphones guides.
However simply because these top-tier cans have a bunch of upgrades, doesn’t imply the Ultras are for everybody, as we’ll get to quickly. What we’ve acquired here’s a high-end pair of headphones that carry out properly in each division, with out overcomplicating issues. These headphones function Bose’s signature tech, and whereas it’s not particularly groundbreaking in 2025, that’s a part of the enchantment. There’s nothing new to determine or fuss over. Setup is a breeze, and the controls are refreshingly simple. As an alternative of fiddly contact panels, you get trusty handbook buttons on the earcups. There’s additionally an app should you fancy extra customization, however it’s optionally available, and the interface is clear with only a handful of modes to choose from – it simply works (sorry Apple).
That’s why the Bose QuietComfort headphones won’t be the very best available on the market, however they strike a stability between high quality audio, supreme consolation, and no-nonsense usability. For anybody searching for high-end Bose headphones in a glossy, barely extra inexpensive bundle, these could possibly be the right match.
Bose QuietComfort headphones: Worth and launch date
- Launched in late 2023
- Priced at $349/£349.95/AU$549.95
- Obtainable in black, off-white, inexperienced, blue, lilac, sandstone
The Bose QuietComfort headphones have been priced at $349/£349.95/AU$549.95 at launch. Nevertheless, as a result of they’re a little bit older you can see some reductions out there now from each third-party retailers and even by means of Bose instantly. For instance, on the Bose Australia web site, the headphones are presently discounted from AU$549.95 to AU$448.95.
How does that examine to the remainder within the Bose lineup? It makes them nearly the identical worth because the Bose QuietComfort 45 that got here earlier than them, which value $329/£329/AU$499.95 at launch.
The Bose QuietComfort Extremely are presently $429/£449.95/AU$649, which is an enormous step up of almost $100. Then once more, should you’re splurging on headphones and need essentially the most bang updated options, you may need to think about the flagship model. However we’ll get into a few of the key variations later.
How does this examine to comparable noise-cancelling over-ears? Nicely, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are nonetheless on the prime of our best noise-cancelling headphones information. At launch, they have been $349/£349/AU$549, the very same worth. However now, you will discover them for less expensive, round $249/£199/AU$399. This is sensible, as they have been launched in 2020. Nevertheless it does imply that should you’re trying to find older, nonetheless very succesful headphones, the Sony may simply be a greater shout – particularly should you’re a fan of Sony and its LDAC assist.
With regards to the broader market, there’s loads of variation as of late. For those who needed, for instance, to prioritize good ANC, nice specs, an lively sound and wonderful battery life, the Cambridge Melomania P100 over-ears would value you significantly much less, at $279/£229/AU$479. For those who’re searching for comparable options however don’t care a lot concerning the Bose model title or getting a high-end pair, you may simply get an honest pair of noise-cancelling over-ears for a mid-range worth, like the superb Sony WH-CH720N headphones, which value $149/£99/AU$259.
Bose QuietComfort headphones: Specs
| Drivers | 40mm |
| Lively noise cancellation | Sure |
| Battery life | As much as 24 hours |
| Weight | 240g |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Waterproofing | No |
Bose QuietComfort headphones: Options
- As much as 26 hours of battery
- Glorious ANC
- Easy buttons
The Bose QuietComfort headphones aren’t filled with the cutting-edge options that you just’ll discover from the most recent over-ears, however that’s not the purpose right here. They give attention to doing the necessities very well. For those who’re searching for reliability and ease of use, they’ll ship with out overcomplicating issues.
Let’s begin with the app. It’s slick, intuitive, and has that Apple-esque really feel, by which I imply minimal, clear, and user-friendly. One of the best half? You don’t want the app to benefit from the headphones, however I’d suggest utilizing it to discover customization choices. For instance, there’s an adjustable 3-band EQ. You possibly can manually tweak bass, mids, and treble or choose presets like Bass Enhance or Treble Cut back. Whereas the EQ choices are extra restricted than some opponents, it will get the job achieved for many who need nice audio with out countless tinkering. Personally, I didn’t really feel the necessity to contact the EQ in any respect.
You’ll additionally discover completely different audio modes, like “Quiet” for noise cancellation and “Conscious” for transparency. These could be toggled utilizing the motion button on the left earcup, and you may add two extra customized modes within the app for particular situations.
A standout function is multipoint connectivity, which lets you pair the headphones with two gadgets concurrently. It is a customary on most high-end headphones as of late, however it’s good to see it included on this pair – seamlessly switching between a laptop computer for work and a cellphone for music or calls is a should for me now.
The handbook buttons on the earcups deserve reward, too. They’re tactile, straightforward to make use of, and customizable through the app. For individuals who favor a wired choice, Bose features a 3.5mm to 2.5mm audio cable with an in-line mic – a pleasant contact for versatility.
Bluetooth 5.1 powers the connectivity (so no scope for Auracast, which requires the newer 5.2 and past), with assist for AAC and SBC codecs. Whereas it doesn’t embrace superior options like Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Sound – the Ultras do have this, thoughts you – it’s stable sufficient for many customers. Bose SimpleSync can be on board, letting you pair the headphones with suitable Bose soundbars and audio system to sync audio throughout gadgets, which is a superb addition should you’re already within the Bose ecosystem.
Battery life is one other space the place these headphones maintain their very own however don’t lead the pack. Bose claims as much as 24 hours of playback, and I managed to squeeze out nearer to 26 hours throughout testing. They cost through USB-C, and a fast 15-minute increase offers you an extra 4 hours. Whereas 24 hours isn’t unhealthy, many opponents now exceed that. As an illustration, the Cambridge Melomania P100 headphones supply an enormous 60 hours of playback with ANC on (and as much as 100 hours with out it). Even the QuietComfort Extremely headphones supply the identical 24-hour battery life, so if longevity is a key precedence, there’s little to separate them.
Bose QuietComfort headphones: Sound high quality
- Nice ANC
- Sound is bassy, however sensible
- Might do with extra EQ choices
Let’s begin with ANC. The Bose QuietComfort headphones supply wonderful energetic noise cancellation, although they’re not class-leading. The QuietComfort Extremely undoubtedly carry out higher on this division, offering extra silence extra constantly. However in comparison with most different over-ear headphones of their class, the ANC right here continues to be improbable.
One standout issue is the match. As I’ll clarify in additional element within the subsequent part, the cosy design creates an ideal seal, which boosts the ANC efficiency. This implies minimal noise seeps in, and there’s nearly no sound leakage out in any respect. Whereas it doesn’t ship complete silence, it’s impressively shut. I couldn’t hear a kettle boiling a number of ft away, the low rumble of transport, and even chatter on the desk subsequent to me whereas working in a café.
That stated, sure louder or higher-pitched sounds can break by means of. A barking canine and a fireplace alarm, for instance, have been audible – however muffled. General, whereas the ANC isn’t eerily silent or good, it’s greater than adequate for many customers and handles on a regular basis environments brilliantly.
The audio high quality on the Bose QuietComfort headphones is crisp, wealthy, and strikes a satisfying stability throughout frequencies. Straight out of the field, without having to regulate something, the sound is heat and highly effective, with bass that packs a punch and pure, clear mids and highs.
The general sound profile leans in the direction of a impartial presentation. Vocals and devices really feel pure and lifelike, whereas the bass has a satisfying depth with out overpowering the opposite ranges. Highs are vibrant and detailed, and the lows are wealthy, however there’s a slight bias in the direction of the low finish. This implies mids can often really feel a bit… squashed? in some way. Although it’s hardly ever noticeable, and the EQ choices can simply clean issues out if wanted.
Tracks like Infantile Gambino’s Heartbeat actually shine on these headphones. The highly effective bass thumps fantastically whereas melodic vocals stay sharp and clear, demonstrating how properly they deal with dynamic tracks.
Bose QuietComfort headphones: Design
- Extraordinarily snug
- Gentle at 240g
- Folding design
The Bose QuietComfort headphones are extremely snug, with an understated design. The plush reminiscence foam earcups, wrapped in mushy vegan leather-based, really feel like pillows on both facet of my head. The scarf is equally well-padded, putting the right stability between assist and luxury. The clamping pressure is good, too – safe however by no means too tight – making these a few of the most snug over-ears I’ve ever worn.
I don’t all the time get together with over-ear headphones (due to a cartilage piercing that always causes points), however I had no bother right here. Whether or not I wore them for hours at my desk, on a protracted stroll, and even throughout a straightforward jog, they stayed snug and didn’t irritate me. That stated, whereas they’re wonderful for on a regular basis use, they’re not advisable for sports activities or exercises. There’s no official IP ranking for water or sweat resistance, so that they’re greatest refrained from heavy gymnasium periods or out of doors walks if it seems to be prefer it may rain.
The QuietComfort headphones are available in a spread of colours, together with black, off-white, inexperienced, blue, lilac, and sandstone. They preserve the traditional Bose design aesthetic and look similar to their predecessors, the QuietComfort 45. The QuietComfort Extremely headphones are comparable too, however this newer model does have a sleeker and extra refined vibe.
Regardless of their premium really feel, these headphones are impressively light-weight at simply 240g. Mixed with the comfort-focused design, they’re good for lengthy listening periods. The carrying case is equally properly thought out. It’s a sturdy, hard-shell case with a zipper, designed to fold up the headphones neatly inside. Not like some over-complicated instances ( you, Apple AirPods Max), this one will get it good. It’s compact, sensible, and consists of inner pockets for the charging and audio cables.
Bose QuietComfort headphones: worth
- Every thing you want, however…
- Competitors on the stage is fierce
- Ultras may make extra sense
At first look, the Bose QuietComfort headphones might sound dear, however when you think about the general expertise they provide, we’d argue they do ship good worth – particularly if noise cancellation and a travel-friendly design are two priorities for you. They’re an incredible alternative for anybody searching for consolation, dependable ANC, and ease.
That stated, it’s necessary to view them in right now’s context. For these prepared to pay extra, the QuietComfort Extremely headphones is perhaps a greater long-term funding, providing improved sound high quality and assist for higher-resolution audio codecs.
It is also price mentioning they do not characterize the only option should you already personal the QuietComfort 45. Sure, they’re higher. However not by sufficient to justify the improve.
You may also discover nice ANC headphones at a lower cost level as of late. Loads of mid-range choices present good noise cancellation for a lot much less. Whereas they could not tick each field – consolation, battery life, or sound high quality – in the identical approach, options are price contemplating if price range is your principal concern. For instance, the Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 headphones are cheaper, providing considerably higher battery life however missing the plush consolation (or let’s face it, the enduring look) of the Bose.
For those who’re somebody who loves the most recent tech, these most likely received’t win you over. Nevertheless, for many who admire easy, understated excellence and aren’t fussed about cutting-edge options, these headphones will make you very joyful.
Ought to I purchase the Bose QuietComfort headphones?
| Attributes | Notes | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| Options | Multi-point connectivity, easy buttons and good ANC. Nothing particular right here, however every thing you go get works very properly. | 3.5/5 |
| Sound high quality | Excellent ANC and a impartial – if a little bit bass-heavy – presentation. A very satisfying pay attention. | 4/5 |
| Design | Tremendous snug, extremely mild, fold as much as be splendid for journey in an equally properly thought-about case. Solely draw back is the Extremely are a little bit extra fashionable. | 4.5/5 |
| Worth | They’re nonetheless a little bit costly, particularly contemplating how far others have come. The Extremely make extra sense for some individuals, however they’re nonetheless a very stable choose. | 3.5/5 |
Purchase them if…
Don’t purchase them if…
Bose QuietComfort headphones: Additionally think about
| Header Cell – Column 0 | Bose QuietComfort headphones | Bose QuietComfort Extremely headphones | Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drivers | 40mm | 35mm | 40mm |
| Lively noise cancellation | Sure | Sure | Sure |
| Battery life | As much as 24 hours | As much as 24 hours | As much as 100 hours |
| Weight | 240g | 250g | 330g |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Waterproofing | No | No | No |
How I examined the Bose QuietComfort headphones
- Examined for 3 weeks
- Examined at house, walks alongside the seashore, working in a café and a library and extra
I used the Bose QuietComfort headphones for 2 weeks earlier than penning this evaluate, and that concerned listening to music and watching streamed films.
All through the testing interval, I used the Bose QuietComfort headphones alongside my iPhone 14 Professional through Bluetooth and MacBook Professional. Streaming was achieved through Spotify and Mubi.
I listened at house while working, in addition to in a café and a library. I took them on a bus and on a number of walks, alongside the seashore and thru the countryside.
I have been testing tech for greater than 12 years now, together with many pairs of headphones, in addition to life-style and health merchandise, like exercise earbuds and health trackers.
- First reviewed in February 2025.