Bose QuietComfort 45 Review

Summary / TL;DR

The Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones offer a blend of effective noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality. With a sleek and understated design, they are suitable for various settings, from travel to home use. The build quality is solid, though users should handle them with care to avoid wear over time. Comfort is a highlight, with plush ear cushions and an adjustable headband that ensure a snug fit without discomfort, even during extended use.

Sound quality is balanced, with clear audio across different genres and punchy bass that doesn't overpower other frequencies. However, the lack of a customizable equalizer may disappoint those who prefer to tweak their audio settings. The noise cancellation is impressive, effectively blocking everyday ambient sounds, though not entirely eliminating sudden noises.

Battery life is robust, offering up to 24 hours on a single charge, with quick charging capabilities for added convenience. Connectivity is straightforward, featuring Bluetooth 5.1 and the ability to pair with two devices simultaneously. While the Bose Music app provides some functionality, it may feel limited compared to other brands.

Overall, the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are a strong choice for those seeking reliable noise cancellation and comfort, though they may not satisfy tech enthusiasts seeking extensive customization options.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds or BOSE QuietComfort 35 II.

Introduction

Looking for a pair of headphones that can hush the world around you while delivering top-notch sound quality? The Bose QuietComfort 45 might just be your new best friend. Whether you're on a long flight, working in a bustling café, or simply unwinding at home, these headphones promise to keep distractions at bay. Known for their impressive noise cancellation and superior audio performance, Bose has a reputation for delivering products that cater to audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

But do these headphones live up to the hype? On one hand, they offer some serious noise-canceling prowess and sound clarity. On the other, there are a few quirks you might want to consider before making a purchase. In this review, we'll break down the key features, design details, and performance aspects to help you decide if these headphones are the right fit for your listening needs.

Let's get ready to uncover all the details about these headphones and see what sets them apart from the competition!

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Design and Build Quality

The Bose QuietComfort 45 sports a design that's both sleek and understated, making it a good fit for both casual and professional settings. Its clean lines and smooth surfaces give it a modern look without being too flashy. The body is made primarily of high-quality plastic, which keeps the headphones lightweight but also durable enough to withstand everyday use. One thing that might catch your eye is the way the earcups swivel. This feature makes them more portable as they can lay flat in your bag but adds a touch of delicacy to the build.

Are they as robust as they feel? Most users find them sturdy, but they're not indestructible, so handle with care. The headband comes with a nice cushion, ensuring that it sits comfortably on your head without causing discomfort over time. The ear cushions are plush and designed to cover your ears completely, which helps in sealing out ambient noise. They're made from synthetic leather, which feels soft to the touch and adds to the overall premium feel of the headphones. However, like most materials, it can show wear over time, especially if used extensively. For those who love attention to detail, you'll appreciate the fine workmanship that goes into the buttons and ports. They're tactile enough to find and use without a second thought but are also low-profile so they don’t disrupt the clean look.

Overall, the design and build of the QuietComfort 45 strike a great balance between elegance and functionality. While not built like a tank, with a bit of care, they should stand the test of time quite nicely. Whether you're commuting or working from home, these headphones are built to fit seamlessly into your life.

Comfort and Fit

When it comes to comfort and fit, the Bose QuietComfort 45 really hits the mark. These headphones are designed with plush ear cushions that gently hug your ears. The material feels like a soft pillow, making them perfect for those long listening sessions without causing discomfort. You know how some headphones feel like they’re squeezing your head? Not these. They're like the comfy old sneakers of headphones—familiar and cozy from the first wear.

The headband is well-padded and adjustable, making it suitable for all head sizes. It's the kind of design that doesn't leave you with a headache after a couple of hours. The clamping force is just right, providing a snug fit without making you feel like your head’s in a vice grip.

Another cool thing is the swiveling ear cups. They allow for a bit of flexibility and can be laid flat, which is super convenient for stashing them in a bag or around your neck when you’re on the go. However, if you wear glasses, you might find that the ear cushions press a little harder against the sides of your face. It's not a dealbreaker, but something to keep in mind if you plan on wearing them all day.

In summary, the QuietComfort 45 headphones are all about delivering a comfortable and accommodating fit for almost everyone. They’re great for commuters, office use, or just chilling at home. If comfort is high on your list, these headphones definitely deserve a spot in your collection.

Sound Quality and Performance

The sound quality of these headphones is like a warm cup of coffee on a chilly morning—comforting and satisfying. Bose has a reputation for delivering top-notch audio, and these headphones certainly live up to that. The audio performance is clear and balanced across different genres, making your favorite tracks sound just right. Whether you're into pop, rock, or classical, they handle it all with finesse.

Bass lovers, rejoice! The low-end frequencies are punchy without overwhelming the mids and highs. It's like having a subwoofer for your ears that doesn't drown out the details. The mid-range frequencies are smooth, providing vocals and instruments with a natural feel. The highs are crisp without being harsh, allowing for a pleasant listening experience even at higher volumes.

One thing to note, however, is that the headphones lack a customizable equalizer. So, if you're someone who enjoys tweaking your audio settings to your heart's content, that might be a bit of a bummer. But honestly, the default tuning is pretty spot-on for most users.

The performance while watching movies or playing games is also worth mentioning. The soundstage is wide enough to make you feel like you're in the middle of the action without losing any important sound cues. However, they don't quite offer the same level of immersion as some high-end gaming headsets, which might be noticeable to avid gamers.

Overall, these headphones deliver a sound experience that is rich and full-bodied, without feeling like you're missing out on the little things. They are a great choice for everyday listening and provide a sound profile that most users will find enjoyable right out of the box.

Noise Cancellation Features

The noise cancellation on the Bose QuietComfort 45 is something to write home about. It's like having a personal soundproof room in your ears, letting you block out the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Imagine being in a busy café, but all you hear is your favorite music playing as if you're in a private concert. That's the power of these headphones.

Advanced Noise Cancelling Technology

The QC45 uses advanced noise-cancelling technology that actively monitors and measures outside noise. Then, it cancels it with an opposite signal. This is not just marketing fluff; it actually works! Whether you're on a plane, in the office, or walking down a noisy street, these headphones deliver a serene listening experience.

One of the coolest things about this feature is the adjustable noise cancellation. You can switch between full noise cancellation for complete isolation and an Aware Mode that lets some external sounds in. This is super handy when you need to stay alert, like crossing the street or having a quick chat without taking off your headphones.

Performance and Limitations

Let's keep it real though. While the noise cancellation is top-notch, it's not magic. Sounds like strong winds or sudden, sharp noises might still sneak in. Also, if you're expecting absolute silence, that's not going to happen. But for everyday noise, it's pretty fantastic.

Overall, the Bose QuietComfort 45's noise cancellation is a game-changer for anyone who values distraction-free listening. It's not perfect, but it's pretty darn close!

Battery Life and Charging

The battery life of the Bose QuietComfort 45 is quite impressive, especially for those who are always on the go. You get up to 24 hours of listening from a single charge, which is more than enough for most long flights, road trips, or marathon work sessions. But what if you're in a rush and the battery is dead? No worries! Thanks to the quick charge feature, you can get about 3 hours of playtime with just a 15-minute charge. That's like your headphones grabbing a quick coffee to wake up!

Charging the headphones is pretty straightforward too. They come with a USB-C charging port, which is becoming the norm these days. This means faster charging and you can use the same charger as many of your other devices. However, you won't find any fancy wireless charging here, which might be a bummer for those who have already invested in a wireless charging setup.

One minor downside is that the headphones don't have a feature to notify you precisely how much battery is left. You'll get a voice prompt when the battery is low, but it's not as detailed as some other models that give you a percentage. It's a small gripe, but something to consider if you like to keep a close eye on your battery levels.

Connectivity and Controls

When it comes to staying connected, the Bose QuietComfort 45 has got you covered. These headphones use Bluetooth 5.1 for a reliable and robust connection. You can say goodbye to annoying dropouts and interruptions, as this version of Bluetooth offers a more stable connection and better range. Pairing with devices is a breeze, too. You just power them up, and they’re ready to sync with your phone or laptop in seconds. Now, here’s a cool feature: you can pair the headphones with up to two devices at the same time. Imagine watching a movie on your tablet and taking a call on your phone without missing a beat—that’s multitasking made easy!

Controls on these headphones are straightforward and intuitive. On the right earcup, you’ll find physical buttons for controlling volume, playback, and taking calls. Physical controls are a great addition because they don’t require you to fumble around with touch-sensitive areas, which can be tricky when you’re on the move. However, some might prefer a more modern touch control interface for the sleekness factor.

For those who love voice assistants, the QuietComfort 45 has got you sorted. A simple press of a button lets you access your favorite voice assistant, like Siri or Google Assistant. It’s like having a personal assistant that fits in your pocket—or, well, on your head. It’s worth mentioning that while the Bose Music app adds extra functionality, like adjusting noise cancellation levels, some users might find the app a bit basic compared to other brands.

But hey, sometimes less is more, right? In short, the connectivity options and control features on these headphones are pretty solid, although they might not satisfy tech enthusiasts on a hunt for every possible feature under the sun.

What's in the Box

Unboxing the Bose QuietComfort 45 is like opening a present on your birthday. So, what exactly do you find inside the box? Let's break it down for you.

• The Headphones: Obviously, the star of the show. They arrive neatly folded and ready to use.
• Carrying Case: It’s a compact, hard-shell case that keeps your headphones secure and tangle-free while you're on the go. Some might find it a bit bulky, but it does the job.
• USB-C Charging Cable: Say goodbye to micro USB – this newer cable means faster charging and compatibility with most modern devices.
• AUX Cable: For those times when you want to go old school with a wired connection, this cable is your friend. Great for saving battery life too.
• Quick Start Guide: A handy little booklet that helps you get up and running in no time. Simple and straightforward, it’s perfect for tech newbies.

Some folks might miss the absence of a charging brick, but hey, most of us probably have a few extras lying around, right?

Video by: CEONTHEMAKING

Competitor Comparison

When you're shopping for headphones, it's like being in an ice cream shop with way too many flavors to choose from. So, let's see how the Bose QuietComfort 45 stacks up against some of its key competitors.

Sony WH-1000XM4

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is often seen as the Bose's arch-nemesis in the headphone arena. Both have fantastic active noise cancellation (ANC), but Sony takes a slight edge with its customizable ANC settings and a bit more detailed sound profile. If you're the type who loves tweaking settings, Sony might be your jam. However, Bose still holds the crown for a more balanced sound and a simpler user interface.

Apple AirPods Max

If you're an Apple fan, you might be eyeing the AirPods Max. They're big on style and come with impressive sound and ANC. But they come with a hefty price tag, and not everyone warms up to their weight. The Bose QuietComfort 45 offers a lighter, more affordable alternative with excellent comfort for extended wear. Plus, you don't need to live in Apple's ecosystem to enjoy them.

Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless

The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless offers exceptional audio quality, especially if you dig bass-heavy tracks. But they're bulkier and don't fold as compactly, making them less travel-friendly. On the other hand, the Bose option excels with its sleek design and portability, without compromising too much on sound quality.

Jabra Elite 85h

Jabra's Elite 85h is another competitor worth considering. They shine with an impressive battery life and robust build quality. However, their noise cancellation isn't quite as effective as Bose's. If ANC is a top priority, the QuietComfort 45 remains the strong contender. In a nutshell, while each of these competitors brings something unique to the table, the QuietComfort 45 consistently offers a solid blend of comfort, noise cancellation, and sound quality that appeals to a broad audience. If you're after a well-rounded pair of headphones without diving deep into your pockets, Bose still deserves your attention.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our look at Bose's latest offering, we find the QuietComfort 45 to be a solid contender if you're after some serious noise-canceling headphones. They're like the classic comfort food of the audio world—reliable, familiar, and consistently satisfying. The sound quality is the audio equivalent of a warm, soothing blanket that wraps around you, blocking out the chaos of the outside world.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Exceptional noise cancellation, balanced sound quality, and long-lasting comfort.
• Cons: Pricey for some budgets, and a slight lack of customization in sound profiles.

For those who prioritize peace and quiet, the noise-canceling features are top-notch, making them a great fit for travel, study, or simply blocking out distractions. The battery life will likely keep you satisfied on long flights or marathon work sessions without needing to reach for the charger too often. However, if you're a tech tinkerer looking for endless customization options, you might find these a bit lacking. The controls are user-friendly, but they don't offer as much flexibility to tweak sound settings as some other models in this price range. In conclusion, the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are like that friend who's always there for you—reliable, comfortable, and consistently delivering a great experience. If you're in the market for headphones that prioritize comfort and noise cancellation, these deserve a spot on your shortlist.

FAQ

Can I use the headphones for phone calls?

Yes, you can! The Bose QuietComfort 45 features an integrated microphone that allows you to take calls. The call quality is quite good, though some users have noted that in very noisy environments, voice clarity can dip a bit.

Are these headphones suitable for workouts?

While they're super comfy for long listening sessions, they might not be your best buddy for intense workouts. They lack a sweat-resistant design, which could be a bummer if you're a gym enthusiast.

How long does it take to charge them fully?

The headphones take about 2.5 hours to reach a full charge. However, a quick 15-minute charge can give you up to 3 hours of playtime—perfect for when you're in a rush!

Do they support Bluetooth multipoint?

Yes, they do. You can connect to two devices simultaneously. So, you can be listening to music on your laptop and then quickly switch to take a call on your phone without any hassle.

Can I use them with a wired connection?

Absolutely! They come with an audio cable for wired use. This is handy if you want to save battery or connect to a device that lacks Bluetooth.

Is there a mobile app?

Yes, the headphones work with the Bose Music app. It allows you to tweak noise cancellation settings and get firmware updates. It's pretty user-friendly, although some folks feel the customization options are a bit limited.

Are they compatible with voice assistants?

Yes, they support voice assistants like Google Assistant and Siri. You can easily activate them through the controls on the headphones.

Still got questions? It's like trying to find a needle in a haystack, but feel free to leave your queries below!

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications