Bose QuietComfort Headphones Review

Premium Noise Cancellation and Comfort

Published November 15, 2023 at 9:00 AM
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The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones represent the latest iteration in Bose's renowned line of noise-cancelling headphones. Building on the success of their predecessors, these over-ear wireless headphones combine Bose's legendary noise cancellation technology with high-fidelity audio performance. The QuietComfort model introduces new features like adjustable EQ and custom noise cancellation modes, allowing users to personalize their listening experience. Designed for comfort during extended use, these headphones feature plush earcup cushions and a secure, padded headband. With up to 24 hours of battery life, they're well-suited for long listening sessions or travel. The inclusion of both Bluetooth connectivity and a wired option with an in-line microphone adds versatility, while the multi-point toggle feature enables seamless switching between devices. However, audiophiles may note the limited codec support, and the lack of automatic wear detection is a minor drawback in this otherwise feature-rich offering.

Bose QuietComfort: Verdict

Pros

  • Exceptional noise cancellation
  • Comfortable for extended wear
  • High-quality audio with adjustable EQ
  • Long battery life
  • Versatile connectivity options

Cons

  • Slightly bulky design
  • App functionality could be improved
  • Premium price point

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones stand out as a top-tier choice for those seeking premium audio quality and unparalleled noise cancellation. These over-ear headphones deliver on Bose’s reputation for excellence, offering a blend of comfort, sound performance, and advanced features that cater to discerning listeners and frequent travelers alike.

At the heart of these headphones is their exceptional noise-canceling capability, which effectively blocks out a wide range of ambient sounds, from low-frequency rumbles to higher-pitched distractions. This, combined with the plush earcups and comfortable headband, makes them ideal for long listening sessions or extended travel. The audio quality is impressive, with a well-balanced sound profile that can be further customized using the adjustable EQ feature.

Battery life is another strong point, with up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge, ensuring these headphones can keep up with demanding schedules. The inclusion of both wireless Bluetooth connectivity and a wired option adds to their versatility, while the multi-point feature allows seamless switching between devices.

However, it’s worth noting that the headphones’ design, while comfortable, may be considered slightly bulky by some users. Additionally, while the Bose app offers useful features, some users have reported that its functionality could be improved for a more seamless experience. Lastly, the premium features come with a premium price tag, which may give budget-conscious consumers pause.

Overall, the Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones offer a compelling package for those who prioritize sound quality, noise cancellation, and comfort. They excel in creating an immersive listening experience, making them a worthy investment for audio enthusiasts and frequent travelers who demand the best in portable audio technology.

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Color Model Number
Black 884367-0100
Blue Dusk 884367-1300
Chilled Lilac 884367-1200
Cypress Green 884367-0300
Moonstone Blue 884367-0500
Sandstone 884367-1100
White 884367-0200

Bose QuietComfort: Compared To Other Headphones

Pros

  • Superior noise cancellation compared to most competitors
  • More comfortable fit for extended wear
  • Excellent sound quality with adjustable EQ
  • Seamless multi-device connectivity

Cons

  • Higher price point than some competitors
  • Slightly bulkier design compared to some models

The Bose QuietComfort headphones stand out in the competitive noise-cancelling headphone market, particularly when compared to popular models like the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Max. Bose’s noise cancellation technology is widely regarded as industry-leading, offering superior ambient noise reduction in various environments. The QuietComfort’s plush earcups and comfortable design make them a top choice for extended wear, outperforming many competitors in terms of long-term comfort.

While the Bose QuietComfort excels in noise cancellation and comfort, it faces stiff competition in other areas. Sony’s WH-1000XM5, for instance, offers comparable sound quality and slightly better battery life. The Apple AirPods Max provides seamless integration with Apple devices, though at a higher price point. The Bose headphones strike a balance between these competitors, offering excellent sound quality with adjustable EQ, multi-device connectivity, and a more accessible price point than some high-end alternatives, making them a strong all-around contender in the premium headphone market.

Sony WH-1000XM5
Black Midnight Blue Silver Smoky Pink
The Sony WH-1000XM5 offers comparable noise cancellation and sound quality to the Bose QuietComfort. It features a more modern design and slightly better battery life, but some users find the Bose more comfortable for extended wear. The Sony has a more customizable app experience with additional sound features.
Apple AirPods Max
Blue Green Midnight Orange Pink Purple Silver Silver Sky Blue Space Gray Starlight
Apple's AirPods Max provide excellent build quality and seamless integration with Apple devices. They offer similar noise cancellation performance to the Bose QuietComfort but at a higher price point. The Bose headphones are more portable and have a longer battery life, while the AirPods Max excel in spatial audio capabilities.
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Black Black/Copper Graphite Pride White
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless offers exceptional sound quality and a much longer battery life than the Bose QuietComfort. However, the Bose edges out in terms of noise cancellation performance. The Sennheiser has a more neutral sound profile out of the box, while the Bose tends to have a warmer signature.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
Black Blue Grey
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 competes with premium build quality and excellent sound. While its noise cancellation isn't quite as strong as the Bose QuietComfort, it offers a more refined audio experience for audiophiles. The Bose maintains an edge in overall comfort and ease of use.
Shure AONIC 50
Brown
The Shure AONIC 50 offers professional-grade sound quality and good noise cancellation, though not quite at the level of the Bose QuietComfort. It has a more neutral sound profile and better codec support, but the Bose wins in terms of comfort and user-friendly features for everyday use.

Bose QuietComfort: Design and Comfort

Pros

  • Plush earcup cushions for extended wear
  • Lightweight design at 240g
  • Secure and comfortable padded headband
  • Foldable for easy portability

Cons

  • Slightly bulky design
  • No official IP rating for water resistance

The Bose QuietComfort headphones showcase a design that seamlessly blends comfort with functionality. The over-ear style features plush memory foam earcups wrapped in soft vegan leather, providing a luxurious feel akin to pillows gently cradling your ears. This thoughtful design allows for extended listening sessions without discomfort, making them ideal for long flights or workdays.

Weighing in at a mere 240 grams, these headphones strike an impressive balance between durability and lightness. The padded headband offers just the right amount of clamping force, ensuring a secure fit without causing undue pressure. This careful engineering results in one of the most comfortable over-ear headphone experiences available, even for users with sensitivities like cartilage piercings.

While the QuietComfort headphones maintain Bose’s classic aesthetic, they incorporate subtle refinements that give them a sleeker, more modern appearance compared to their predecessors. Available in a range of colors including black, white, and limited edition hues like cypress green, these headphones cater to various style preferences. The foldable design adds to their practicality, making them easily portable for on-the-go use.

It’s worth noting that while these headphones excel in comfort and style, they lack an official IP rating for water or sweat resistance. This means they’re best suited for everyday use and travel rather than intense workouts or outdoor activities in unpredictable weather. Despite this limitation, the overall design of the Bose QuietComfort headphones successfully marries form and function, creating a product that’s as pleasing to wear as it is to look at.

Bose QuietComfort: Noise Cancellation Performance

Pros

  • Exceptional noise cancellation across various environments
  • Customizable ANC levels via Bose app
  • Effective wind noise reduction feature
  • Seamless switching between ANC and Aware modes

Cons

  • Slight hiss noticeable in very quiet environments
  • ANC may affect sound quality at highest settings

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones showcase industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) technology, effectively creating a cocoon of silence in various environments. Users consistently report significant reduction in ambient noise, from low-frequency rumbles of airplane engines to higher-pitched office chatter. The ANC performance is particularly impressive in its ability to adapt to different surroundings, providing a consistently immersive listening experience.

One of the standout features is the customizable noise cancellation levels accessible through the Bose app. This allows users to fine-tune their listening experience, balancing noise reduction with awareness of their surroundings. The inclusion of a wind noise reduction feature further enhances the ANC capabilities, addressing a common issue with many noise-cancelling headphones.

The QuietComfort headphones offer two primary modes: Quiet Mode for full noise cancellation and Aware Mode for ambient sound passthrough. Users praise the seamless transition between these modes, which can be easily toggled via touch controls or the Bose app. While the ANC performance is generally exceptional, some users note a slight hiss in extremely quiet environments, though this is rarely noticeable during regular use.

It’s worth noting that at the highest ANC settings, there may be a subtle impact on overall sound quality, with some users reporting a slight compression of the audio. However, this trade-off is generally considered minimal compared to the benefits of the noise cancellation. Overall, the noise cancellation performance of the Bose QuietComfort headphones sets a high standard in the industry, making them an excellent choice for frequent travelers, office workers, or anyone seeking a private listening experience in noisy environments.

Bose QuietComfort: Sound Quality

Pros

  • High-fidelity audio with deep, rich bass
  • Adjustable EQ for personalized sound
  • Clear and natural vocals and instruments
  • Consistent audio delivery across various genres

Cons

  • Slight compression at highest ANC settings
  • Bass may be too strong for some listeners

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones deliver an impressive audio experience that caters to a wide range of listeners. These headphones offer high-fidelity sound with a particular emphasis on deep, rich bass that adds warmth and depth to music. The audio profile is well-balanced, ensuring that vocals and instruments remain clear and natural, even with the enhanced low-end response.

One of the standout features is the adjustable EQ, accessible through the Bose app. This allows users to fine-tune the audio to their preferences, adjusting bass, mid-range, and treble levels for a personalized listening experience. The headphones perform consistently across various music genres, from bass-heavy tracks to more nuanced acoustic performances.

While the overall sound quality is excellent, some users may find the bass slightly overpowering in its default setting. However, this can be easily adjusted using the EQ controls. It’s worth noting that at the highest active noise cancellation (ANC) settings, there might be a subtle impact on the audio, with some users reporting a slight compression of the sound. Despite this, the effect is minimal and doesn’t significantly detract from the overall listening experience.

Bose QuietComfort: Battery Life and Charging

Pros

  • Up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge
  • Fast charging capability provides 2.5 hours of playtime in 15 minutes
  • Option to use wired when battery is depleted

Cons

  • Charging time of 2.5 hours for a full charge
  • No wireless charging option

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones offer impressive battery performance, catering to users who require long listening sessions. With up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge, these headphones are well-suited for extended use during travel or throughout the workday. This substantial battery life ensures that users can enjoy their music, podcasts, or calls without frequent interruptions for recharging.

For those moments when a quick power boost is needed, the QuietComfort headphones feature a fast-charging capability. A mere 15-minute charge provides up to 2.5 hours of additional playtime, making it convenient for users who are short on time but need to use their headphones. This quick-charge feature is particularly useful for last-minute preparations before a commute or a flight.

While the 2.5-hour charging time for a full battery might be considered slightly long by some users, it’s a reasonable trade-off for the extended 24-hour playtime. Additionally, the headphones offer a wired option, allowing users to continue using them even when the battery is depleted. This versatility ensures that the listening experience isn’t interrupted, even in situations where charging isn’t immediately possible.

Bose QuietComfort: Additional Features

Pros

  • Customizable EQ settings via Bose app
  • Multi-point connectivity for seamless device switching
  • Spotify Tap integration for quick music access
  • Wind noise reduction feature for outdoor use
  • Optional wired connection with included audio cable

Cons

  • Limited codec support for high-resolution audio
  • Lack of automatic wear detection

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones come packed with additional features that enhance the overall user experience. One standout feature is the customizable EQ settings accessible through the Bose app, allowing users to fine-tune their audio preferences. This level of personalization ensures that listeners can adjust the sound profile to their liking, whether they prefer bass-heavy tracks or a more balanced audio output.

Another notable feature is the multi-point connectivity, which enables seamless switching between multiple devices without the need to disconnect and reconnect. This is particularly useful for users who frequently transition between their smartphone, tablet, or laptop. The headphones also integrate Spotify Tap functionality, allowing users to quickly access their music with a simple press of a button on the earcup.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the QuietComfort headphones include a wind noise reduction feature, which helps maintain audio clarity in breezy environments. Additionally, the inclusion of an audio cable with an in-line microphone provides a wired option for times when Bluetooth isn’t available or battery life is depleted. While these features add significant value, it’s worth noting that the headphones lack automatic wear detection and have limited codec support for high-resolution audio, which may disappoint some audiophiles.

Bose QuietComfort: Conclusion

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones stand out as a top-tier choice for those seeking premium audio quality and unparalleled noise cancellation. These over-ear headphones deliver on Bose’s reputation for excellence, offering a blend of comfort, sound performance, and advanced features that cater to discerning listeners and frequent travelers alike. The exceptional noise-canceling capability effectively blocks out a wide range of ambient sounds, while the plush earcups and comfortable design make them ideal for long listening sessions.

While the Bose QuietComfort excels in noise cancellation and comfort, it faces stiff competition in other areas. The audio quality is impressive, with a well-balanced sound profile and adjustable EQ for personalization. With up to 24 hours of battery life, multi-device connectivity, and both wireless and wired options, these headphones offer versatility for various uses. However, the premium features come with a higher price tag, which may give budget-conscious consumers pause. Despite this, for those prioritizing top-notch noise cancellation and comfort in a feature-rich package, the Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones are a compelling choice in the premium headphone market.

                                 

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