When it comes to active noise-canceling (ANC) headphones, Bose is often the first name that comes to mind. Known for their industry-leading noise cancellation technology and exceptional comfort, Bose headphones have set the standard in the market for years. The Bose QuietComfort 45 continues this legacy, promising improved performance, better sound quality, and the same legendary comfort. In this Bose QuietComfort 45 Review , we dive deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the Bose QuietComfort 45 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your audio needs.
Design and Build Quality
The Bose QuietComfort 45 maintains the classic design that Bose fans have come to love. With a sleek, minimalist look, these headphones are both stylish and functional. Weighing in at a comfortable 240 grams, they are designed for long listening sessions without causing fatigue. The ear cups are generously sized and cushioned with synthetic leather, providing excellent isolation from external noise. The headband is also padded, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit.
The build quality of the QC 45 is top-notch, with durable materials that can withstand daily use. The headphones come with a sturdy travel case, a 3.5mm to 2.5mm TRS cable for wired listening, and a USB type A to C cable for charging. The shift from the older micro-USB to USB-C is a welcome update, making charging more convenient and faster.
Sound Quality
The Bose QuietComfort 45 delivers a balanced sound profile that caters to a wide range of music genres. While the default tuning emphasizes high frequencies, which may be too bright for some listeners, the in-app EQ allows you to customize the sound to your liking. This flexibility ensures that you can tweak the sound profile to better suit your personal preferences and the type of content you’re listening to.
The headphones excel in producing clear mids and highs, making vocals and instruments stand out. However, the bass response is somewhat subdued compared to other high-end headphones. This makes the QC 45 ideal for genres like classical, jazz, and acoustic music, where clarity and detail are paramount. For bass-heavy genres, some adjustments via the EQ might be necessary to achieve a more satisfying listening experience.
Features and Specifications
- Battery Life: The Bose QuietComfort 45 offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 24 hours and 49 minutes with ANC turned on. This surpasses Bose’s official 24-hour estimate. A quick 15-minute charge provides up to 3 hours of playback, making it convenient for users on the go.
- Connectivity: Featuring Bluetooth 5.1, the QC 45 ensures stable wireless connectivity up to nine meters from your source device. It also supports wired playback using the included 3.5mm to 2.5mm TRS cable, offering versatility in how you choose to listen.
- Controls: Physical buttons on the ear cups manage playback, volume, and ANC mode. These controls are reliable and intuitive, although some users might miss the modern touch-sensitive controls found on other high-end headphones.
- Noise Cancellation: The updated ANC system in the QC 45 effectively reduces ambient noise, particularly in the mid and high-frequency ranges. This makes them ideal for travel, commutes, and noisy environments.
Battery Life and Charging Time
One of the standout features of the Bose QuietComfort 45 is its exceptional battery life. In our tests, the headphones lasted nearly 25 hours on a single charge with ANC activated. This performance exceeds Bose’s official battery life estimate and makes the QC 45 a reliable choice for long trips or extended listening sessions. Additionally, the headphones support quick charging via the USB-C port, providing 3 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge. This feature ensures that even if you forget to charge your headphones overnight, you can quickly top up the battery before heading out.
Performance
The Bose QuietComfort 45 excels in various performance aspects, from sound quality to noise cancellation. The ANC system effectively blocks out background noise, allowing you to immerse yourself in your music or calls without distractions. The headphones perform exceptionally well in noisy environments such as airplanes, trains, and busy offices, making them a perfect companion for frequent travelers.
The overall sound quality is impressive, with a clear and balanced audio profile. While the default sound signature may not appeal to bass enthusiasts, the in-app EQ provides ample customization options to fine-tune the audio to your liking. The QC 45 also maintains a stable Bluetooth connection, ensuring uninterrupted playback even at a distance from your device.
Comfort and Usability
Comfort is where the Bose QuietComfort 45 truly shines. The headphones are designed for long-term wear, with plush ear cushions and a padded headband that distribute weight evenly across your head. This ensures that you can wear them for hours without experiencing discomfort or fatigue. The lightweight design further enhances comfort, making the QC 45 ideal for extended listening sessions.
In terms of usability, the physical buttons on the ear cups are easy to locate and operate, providing reliable control over playback, volume, and ANC modes. While some users may prefer touch-sensitive controls, the physical buttons are less prone to accidental activation and more reliable in various conditions, such as cold weather.
Price and Value for Money
Priced at around $279, the Bose QuietComfort 45 offers good value for money, especially considering its performance and comfort. While newer models may offer slight improvements, the QC 45 remains a competitive option in the premium headphone market. Its combination of excellent noise cancellation, comfortable design, and solid sound quality makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking high-quality ANC headphones.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Outstanding noise cancellation
- USB-C port for charging
- Comfortable for long periods
- Wired and wireless playback options
- In-app EQ for sound customization
Cons
- Default frequency response may not suit all users
- No support for aptX
- ANC cannot be fully turned off
Conclusion
The Bose QuietComfort 45 is a reliable and comfortable pair of headphones with excellent noise cancellation. While it may not offer groundbreaking improvements over its predecessors, the QC 45 is a solid choice for those seeking comfort and performance in a premium package.
Image Credits :The images used in this review are sourced from the official Bose Website https://www.boseindia.com/ . All rights reserved to their respective owners.
FAQs
Does the Bose QuietComfort 45 support quick charging?
Yes, a quick 15-minute charge provides up to 180 minutes of playtime.
Can I use the Bose QuietComfort 45 with a wired connection?
Yes, the headphones come with a 3.5mm to 2.5mm TRS cable for wired playback.
Can I customize the sound profile on the Bose QuietComfort 45?
Yes, you can use the in-app EQ in the Bose Music app to customize the sound profile to your liking.
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