Bose’s second-generation QuietComfort Headphones sell for £299.95. Reviewers note that while they are an improvement over the first generation in several ways, the Ultra model’s current pricing creates difficulty for the cheaper pair to sell.
Design adjustments are apparent despite the look remaining largely consistent. Bose shifted the power button from the earcup to the underside and widened the headband to distribute weight across a larger area. Furthermore, the headband adjuster now operates silently, removing the previous clacking noise.
Other hardware changes include a different button profile and feel. One minor critique mentioned the playback button, which is slightly recessed and awkward to locate, leading to tentative presses.
Color options offer a distinct element. The review sample arrived in Rosewood Mauve, but the range encompasses Black, White Smoke, Eucalyptus Green, Dewdrop Mint, and more, with limited editions available on the site.
Comfort remains a strength, featuring soft protein leather earpads that apply little pressure around the ears or on the crown. The earpads are not designed to be removable, and the battery housing also does not look user-replaceable.
Functionality includes a USB-C port for wired audio, as there is no 3.5mm jack on the unit itself. The headphones still fold, and the carry case is slightly smaller and rounder than its predecessor.
Noise cancellation is reported as very effective. Once a firm seal is achieved, background noise is significantly muffled. In controlled environments, the noise suppression allows the user to listen to music on the Underground, or to work and watch films on a plane. Background noise on the street is described as squashed, and voices are reduced.
Testing against the previous model showed the new pair offers more consistent noise cancellation, particularly when tested with Pink Noise. The headphones are rated to be slightly better than the Beats and a shade behind the Sennheiser Momentum 5 Wireless, but are still highly competitive.
Transparency mode is clear, processing sound through microphones rather than simple amplification. Call quality is described as decent, although the isolation is not as clean in loud environments as cheaper alternatives. Background noise levels during calls are comparable to the wearer’s voice.
In terms of connectivity, the headphones use Bluetooth 5.4 with SBC, AAC, and LE Audio, although they do not support Auracast or aptX. Multipoint connectivity is supported, though the review unit struggled to maintain a stable connection. USB-C audio handles files up to 24-bit/48kHz.
Sound quality is characterized as smooth, balanced, and warm, rather than being overtly thrilling. While the old model sounded bigger, the new pair advances the soundstage slightly, making vocals sound more natural. The mids are smooth, the bass is warm but not rich, and the highs are clear and bright.
Performance in dedicated modes showed variation. Cinema mode was deemed superior to Immersion mode, offering a larger, forward stage, and allowing dialogue to sound natural. However, quiet and loud passages maintain a similar volume level, and the sense of rhythm or flow lacks the fluidity of certain competitors.
Regarding power, Bose rates the battery life at 24 hours, or 18 hours when Immmersive Audio is active. A full charge takes three hours, and fifteen minutes of charging provides a duration of 2.5 hours.
