Bose has long been a leader in the audio industry, particularly known for producing headphones that offer excellent sound quality and top-notch noise cancellation. Two of their most popular models in the QuietComfort series are the Bose QuietComfort 35 (QC35) and the Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45). Both headphones offer advanced features and exceptional comfort, but they come with several differences that could influence a buyer’s decision.
In this article, we will delve deep into the specifications and key features of both the Bose QuietComfort 35 and the Bose QuietComfort 45. We will compare them across multiple categories, including design, sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, battery life, connectivity, and price.
Design and Build Quality
👉 Bose QuietComfort 35 (QC35)
The Bose QuietComfort 35 was released in 2016 and quickly gained popularity due to its lightweight, comfortable design and premium build quality. The QC35 is constructed using high-quality plastic and features soft, plush ear cups made from synthetic protein leather. The headband is padded for extra comfort, and the headphones weigh just 235 grams (8.3 ounces), making them extremely comfortable for long listening sessions.
The QC35 comes in two colors: Black and Silver. The design is minimalistic, with only a few buttons located on the ear cups for control. The ear cups swivel flat for easier storage, and the headphones fold in for compactness.
👉 Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45)
The Bose QuietComfort 45, released in 2021, retains the same comfort-focused design as the QC35 but with a more refined, modern look. It features an updated build, with a more premium feel, and the materials used have been improved for better durability and aesthetics. The headband is reinforced with stainless steel, which gives the QC45 a more robust feel compared to the QC35.
The QC45 is also lightweight, weighing only 239 grams (8.4 ounces), which is just a few grams more than the QC35. The ear cups on the QC45 are similarly plush, offering a comfortable fit for long listening sessions. The ear cups can rotate 90 degrees, making it easier to store the headphones or wear them around the neck.
The Bose QuietComfort 45 is available in two colors: Black and White Smoke.
Sound Quality
👉 Bose QuietComfort 35 (QC35)
The Bose QC35 is well-regarded for its balanced sound profile, offering clear vocals, punchy bass, and a smooth treble range. The headphones provide excellent audio for a wide variety of genres, from pop and rock to classical and jazz. The overall sound signature is designed for comfort and clarity rather than emphasizing any specific frequency range. The QC35 delivers consistent audio performance, even in noisy environments, thanks to its noise cancellation technology.
The QC35 supports both Bluetooth and wired connections, allowing you to switch between wireless convenience and high-quality wired audio, depending on your needs. While it lacks some of the more advanced audio customization options found in newer models, its sound performance is still impressive for most users.
👉 Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45)
The Bose QC45 builds upon the solid sound quality of the QC35, with further refinements in both clarity and bass response. The headphones feature Bose’s proprietary TriPort acoustic architecture and a new Active EQ, which helps deliver a more balanced sound profile, especially when listening at lower volumes. The sound quality of the QC45 is more dynamic, with enhanced depth and clarity in the low end, and the mids and highs are well-defined.
The QC45 also introduces an improved soundstage, making it feel more immersive when listening to music, movies, or podcasts. The bass is tighter and punchier, without being overpowering, while the overall sound is more natural and less compressed than the QC35.
Noise Cancellation
👉 Bose QuietComfort 35 (QC35)
One of the defining features of the Bose QuietComfort 35 is its industry-leading noise cancellation technology. The QC35 uses a combination of active and passive noise canceling to reduce unwanted ambient sounds, creating a more immersive listening experience. It works especially well in environments with consistent, low-frequency noise, such as airplane cabins or busy offices.
The QC35 has two levels of noise cancellation: “High” and “Low.” The “High” mode offers the best noise reduction, while the “Low” mode is ideal for users who still want to be aware of their surroundings, such as when walking in public spaces.
👉 Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45)
The Bose QuietComfort 45 takes the noise cancellation technology to the next level. It features a new “AWARE” mode, which allows you to adjust the level of external sound you hear. This is particularly useful when you need to be aware of your surroundings, but still want to benefit from Bose’s top-tier noise canceling.
The QC45 has a dual-microphone system that continuously monitors and adjusts the noise-canceling effect in real-time, ensuring that you get the most accurate and effective noise cancellation. The new noise-canceling algorithm is more efficient than the one used in the QC35, providing better performance in both high and low-frequency noise environments. Additionally, the QC45 offers a more natural transition between noise-canceling modes, which results in a more seamless listening experience.
Comfort and Fit
👉 Bose QuietComfort 35 (QC35)
The QC35 is widely praised for its exceptional comfort, especially for extended listening sessions. The ear cups are well-padded, and the headband is adjustable, ensuring a snug but not too tight fit. The plush ear cushions are made from memory foam, which provides a good seal around the ears while minimizing pressure. The lightweight design of the QC35 also contributes to its overall comfort.
However, some users have reported that the QC35 can feel a bit tight on the head after several hours of use, especially if you have a larger head size. Despite this, the QC35 remains one of the most comfortable headphones for long listening periods.
👉 Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45)
The Bose QuietComfort 45 improves upon the comfort of the QC35 with an updated design and even more ergonomic features. The ear cups are slightly larger and more spacious, providing a better seal around the ears. The padding is softer and more plush, ensuring that the headphones remain comfortable during long sessions.
The headband is now more adjustable, and the clamping force is slightly reduced compared to the QC35, making the QC45 a better choice for users who find the QC35 too tight. The overall design of the QC45 is slightly more breathable, helping to reduce heat buildup and improve comfort during extended use.
Battery Life
👉 Bose QuietComfort 35 (QC35)
The Bose QC35 offers an impressive battery life of up to 20 hours when used wirelessly via Bluetooth. This is more than sufficient for most users’ daily needs, whether it’s commuting, traveling, or listening to music at home. If you run out of battery, the QC35 supports fast charging, providing up to 2.5 hours of use with just a 15-minute charge.
Additionally, the QC35 can be used in wired mode, which allows you to continue listening even if the battery is drained. While the battery life is slightly lower than some newer models, it is still one of the best in its class for wireless headphones.
👉 Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45)
The Bose QuietComfort 45 features an upgraded battery system, offering an even longer battery life than the QC35. The QC45 provides up to 24 hours of continuous playback on a full charge, which is ideal for long flights, workdays, or extended listening sessions. If you’re in a hurry, the QC45 supports fast charging, providing up to 2.5 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge, similar to the QC35.
The QC45’s longer battery life, combined with its efficient power management system, makes it one of the best options for users who prioritize battery longevity.
Connectivity and Features
👉 Bose QuietComfort 35 (QC35)
The Bose QC35 connects to devices via Bluetooth 4.1 and supports multi-point connectivity, meaning you can pair it with two devices at once. It also features a 3.5mm audio cable for wired connections, which is great for high-quality audio when needed.
The QC35 includes a built-in microphone for hands-free calling and access to voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant. You can control volume, track selection, and noise-canceling modes through the physical buttons on the ear cups.
While the QC35 doesn’t feature any advanced app integration, it still offers good Bluetooth performance and is compatible with most Bluetooth-enabled devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
👉 Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45)
The Bose QuietComfort 45 comes with Bluetooth 5.1, which improves the overall wireless range and connection stability compared to the QC35. The multi-point connectivity feature is also present, allowing you to connect two devices at once.
The QC45 includes more advanced app integration via the Bose Music app, which lets you customize sound settings, adjust noise-canceling levels, and even update firmware. The app provides greater control over the headphones and enhances the user experience.
Additionally, the QC45 features a more refined voice assistant integration and better microphone performance for clearer calls. It also supports voice prompts for easier navigation through settings.
Price and Value
👉 Bose QuietComfort 35 (QC35)
At the time of its release, the QC35 was priced as a premium product, but it has since dropped in price due to the release of newer models. The QC35 is generally available at a more affordable price compared to the QC45, making it an attractive option for users on a budget who still want excellent sound quality, noise cancellation, and comfort.
The QC35 remains a solid value for those who don’t need the latest features but want a reliable, high-quality pair of headphones.
👉 Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45)
The Bose QuietComfort 45 is a more expensive model, with a price tag that reflects its upgraded features and longer battery life. The added convenience of improved noise cancellation, better sound quality, and additional customization options through the Bose Music app make the QC45 worth the higher price for users who want the latest and greatest from Bose.
Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?
Both the Bose QuietComfort 35 and Bose QuietComfort 45 are excellent headphones that excel in different areas. The QC35 offers great value with its reliable performance and comfort, while the QC45 takes everything a step further with improved sound quality, better noise cancellation, and enhanced connectivity.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option and don’t mind missing out on some of the newer features, the QC35 is still a fantastic choice. However, if you want the best noise cancellation, sound quality, and battery life, the QC45 is worth the extra investment.
Ultimately, your decision will depend on your priorities: budget, battery life, sound quality, and the need for customization and advanced features. Both headphones deliver an exceptional listening experience, but the QC45 offers a more refined and feature-rich package overall.
Final Verdict: Choose the Bose QuietComfort 45 if you want the latest features and the best possible experience in noise cancellation and sound quality. Opt for the Bose QuietComfort 35 if you want a more affordable option with the signature Bose sound and comfort.