Hey guys, and welcome to my Bose QuietComfort II noise-canceling earbuds review. Now, as you are probably aware, when it comes to travel, there are quite a number of accessories to choose from to make things just that little bit easier. And in that, there are always two essential truths:
- There are a great number of variations of every piece of equipment, electronic device and/or accessory that you could be looking for.
- Everybody has an opinion on which of these variations is best at any given time – which is generally due to the fact that that particular item has helped them make their travel experience just that much better.
So with that in mind, one thing I have tried to do on this site is review the products I use, as well as the ones that are popular at the moment to give you an idea of what may work for you as you head out for your latest adventure.
Hence, for this review, I will run you through:
- What the product is
- How it works
- What I bought if for
- Pros and Cons
- Cost
- My recommendations
What are Noise Canceling Earbuds
Noise cancelling earbuds are a type of headphones that reduce unwanted ambient sounds using active noise control. This is distinct from passive headphones, which, if they reduce ambient sounds at all, use techniques such as soundproofing.
Noise cancellation makes it possible to enjoy music without raising the volume excessively. It can also help a passenger sleep in a noisy vehicle such as an airliner.
Here’s how it works:
Active noise-cancelling earbuds include a microphone that picks up ambient noise (such as traffic, crowd noise, airplane engines, etc.) then creates a sound wave that is 180 degrees out of phase with the ambient noise. This “anti-noise” effectively cancels out the unwanted sounds, leading to a quiet listening experience.
This technique doesn’t eliminate all types of noise and works best at reducing steady, predictable noise frequencies like the hum of a plane engine or a fan. It’s less effective against rapidly changing frequencies, such as people talking or a baby crying however – which is why you can often still hear these things on a long haul flight.
Noise cancelling earbuds come in a variety of designs, with some fitting over the ear and others fitting inside the ear canal. These earbuds often also include standard sound isolation features, like rubber or foam tips that physically block out some amount of external noise.
Check out these: 3 Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds for Travel
The Bose QuietComfort II Noise-Canceling Earbuds
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II, which takes the place of the original model in the company’s range, symbolizes the company’s dedication to the growing wireless market with this latest edition undergoing a thorough overhaul, which is quite impressive.
These next-generation wireless earbuds are engineered to fit each individual as, just like the Bose QuietComfort headphones, they intelligently personalize the noise cancellation and sound performance to uninterrupted, immersive listening wherever they may be. To ensure all-day comfort and a secure fit, they also come with three pairs of ear tips and three pairs of custom stability bands, so users can find the best fit for their ears as well.
They come with a simple touch interface interface that frees your hands so you can stay focused on whatever you’re doing. With simple swipes and taps you can play or pause music or even adjust the noise cancellation level, all without ever touching your phone.
What do you get?
Brand | Bose |
Model | Bose QuietComfort II Noise-Cancelling Earbuds w/- Bluetooth |
Price | See price at Amazon |
Colors | Triple black |
Size of main bag | 2.34 x 1.05 x 2.61 inches |
Weight | 0.317 ounces |
Other features: | 6 hours battery life IPX4 splash proof Charging case Three pairs of ear tips Three pairs of stability bands USB cable |
Main Features
The key features of the Bose QuietComfort II noise-cancelling earbuds include:
- Capacitive touch surfaces: Each earpiece’s stem has a capacitive touch control panel on the wide outside strip to control playing and answer or switch calls. Two taps advance a track (or end or reject incoming calls) and triple taps advance a track backward. Lastly, swiping up or down will correspondingly raise or reduce the volume. These controls, which are identical on both sides, are simple to operate.
- Mobile Application: Download the Bose Music App for the QuietComfort Earbuds II to get firmware upgrades, personalized EQ tweaks and new features as they become available. You may also establish unique ANC settings for various circumstances with an ANC strength slider on the app.
- Battery Life: Upon testing the earbuds for constant accurate music playback peaking at 75dB(SPL), the Bose QuietComfort II lasted 7 hours and 15 minutes on a single charge (at a reasonable listening level).
- Noise Canceling: The QC Earbuds II reduces intense low-frequency rumbling (such as that heard on a flight) better than any other earbuds on the market. This technology drastically lowers all of the regular deep rumbles, hums and roars whilst also suppressing the mid and high tones that many active noise cancellation options struggle with.
- Microphone: The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II microphone array allows for phone conversations, voice notes and voice assistants.
Pros
- Admirable sound quality
- Top class noise canceling
- Kit includes ear tips and stabilizer
- Improved voice calling feature
- Good battery life
Cons
- Quite expensive
- No wireless charging
- Microphone quality a little low (susceptible to wind noise etc.
How much are they?
The Bose QuietComfort II wireless noise-canceling earbuds retail around the $250 – $300 mark
FAQs
Why do my Bose earphones’ batteries deplete so quickly?
This might happen during the initial usage of the product as well as in some instances, if the earbuds have not been used or charged in a while. Charge your earphones when not in use to experience maximum performance and lifespan as the battery drains while the earphones are kept in the carry case and not in use. It is practical to constantly charge your earphones while not in use for optimum results.
What is the battery life of the Bose QuietComfort earphones
As advertised, these earbuds may last six hours, but based on my research, some users claim they enjoyed the gadget for seven hours.
Do I recommend them?
In my travels I have often swapped between these and the Bose headphones. I have not used these new ones in anger but have played with them in retail outlets a couple of times. I have also owned earlier versions of the earbuds and always found them to be excellent.
The latest model is light on the ears and I personally like the responsiveness of the touch buttons on the side. In my opinion, if you prefer earbuds to headphones and if you can afford the higher price point, you will not be disappointed with these.
Conclusion
So there you have it, my honest Bose QC earbuds 2 review. I hope it has been of assistance but as usual, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out by commenting below. I would also love to hear of your own experience with these.
Are there any other products you have been looking at but want to know more about? If so, please comment below and I will do my best to get some details for you.
Until next time
Have fun and safe travels
Paul