Buying Bose QuietComfort headphones seems straightforward, until you have to choose between over-ear headphones, wireless earbuds or a model from the Ultra range. Marketing terms such as “premium sound” and “advanced noise cancellation” don’t always tell you how a product will perform in everyday use.
So focus on these three common pitfalls:
Over-ear headphones fully cover your ears. They can be comfortable for listening, working or travelling for long periods. According to the product information, the Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) weigh approximately 0.23 kg and offer up to 24 hours of battery life. They’re also available in black, white, eucalyptus green and rosewood mauve.
A pair of Bose earbuds is more compact and easier to slip into a coat pocket or bag. According to the product information, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds offer up to 8.5 hours of playback and have an IPX4 rating. This means they’re protected against splashes and sweat, but not immersion in water.
Headphones with active noise cancellation use microphones and electronic processing to reduce certain ambient sounds. They’re particularly useful for constant noises, such as train engines or the rumble of an aeroplane. Voices, sudden sounds and wind may still be audible.
Also check which modes are available. Quiet is designed to block out more noise, while Aware or Conscious lets ambient sound through. According to Bose product information, several QuietComfort models have these modes. Don’t use noise cancellation when cycling, driving or in other situations where you need to hear traffic.
A wireless Bose headset connects via Bluetooth, but the version and connection options vary by model. The supplied product information lists Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C and a 3.5mm connection for the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen). Other Ultra versions are listed with Bluetooth 5.3.
A cable can be useful if the battery runs out or you’re using a device without Bluetooth. Check in advance whether an audio cable and charging cable are included in the box. Some models don’t come with a power adapter. If you often switch between a laptop and smartphone, also look for multipoint or support for multiple devices.
Why it suits this profile: These over-ear headphones are a good choice if you’re after a wireless Bose headset with Quiet and Aware modes, without stepping up to the Ultra range.
The product description specifically mentions the two listening modes and a design made for longer listening sessions. Do check that the size suits your bag and how you like to wear your headphones.
Over-ear fit, Bluetooth connectivity, and adjustable Quiet and Aware modes, according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: Designed for listeners who value spatial audio, Cinema Mode, active noise cancellation, and both wireless and wired connections.
The specifications list Bluetooth 5.4, a detachable cable and Cinema Mode. That gives you more than one way to connect.
Bose Immersive Audio, Cinema Mode, Bluetooth 5.4 and a 3.5mm connection, according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: These wireless earbuds are made for anyone who values a compact design, active noise cancellation and listening on the go or during light exercise.
The set comes with multiple ear tip sizes and stability bands. The IPX4 rating is handy, but doesn’t protect the earbuds if they’re fully submerged.
Bluetooth 5.3, CustomTune, Aware mode, IPX4 and up to 6 hours of listening per charge, according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: A good choice if you’re looking for compact Bose noise-cancelling headphones for music, podcasts, calls and commuting.
The product information mentions Bluetooth multipoint, so you can switch between devices. When your earbuds arrive, check that they fit properly and charge the case in good time.
Up to 8.5 hours of listening, a wireless charging case, IPX4, and Quiet and Aware modes, according to the product information.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the current European safety regulations.
Turn on Bluetooth on your smartphone, put your headphones or earbuds into pairing mode, then select the product name from the Bluetooth list. According to the product information, you can use the Bose app for additional settings, equaliser options and firmware updates.
Battery life varies by model and how you use it. Several over-ear models are listed as offering up to 24 hours. Depending on the version, Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are listed as offering around 8.5 or 6 hours per charge. Noise cancellation, volume, spatial audio and phone calls can all affect actual battery life.
The supplied product information lists an IPX4 rating for several earbuds. This makes them suitable for sweat and light rain, but not for swimming, showering or submersion. Also check that they stay securely in place as you move, and use Aware mode when you need to hear your surroundings.