Bose QuietComfort vs Bose QuietComfort 45

Every spec side by side, from each maker's published figures.

Better figure, where one is clearly better

QuietComfort compared with QuietComfort 45
BoseQuietComfortBoseQuietComfort 45
Overview
Released2000September 2021
Sound
TypeOver-earOver-ear
Noise cancellingYesYes
Transparency mode–Yes
BackClosed–
Bluetooth codecsNone (wired)SBC and AAC
Noise cancelling detailNoise cancellation works with the audio plug disconnected; the in-line box carries the power and Hi/Lo controlsTwo modes, Quiet (full noise cancelling) and Aware (full transparency); microphones inside and outside the ear cups with a proprietary digital chip, tuned for mid-range frequencies such as voices
Audio features–TriPort acoustic architecture; Active EQ; adjustable EQ (bass, mid-range and treble) in the Bose Music app
Battery
Listening time (maker's claim)Up to 80 hoursUp to 22 hours
Battery life detailBose states an average 80 hours from two AAA alkaline cells; the indicator flashes with at least eight hours remainingUp to 22 hours on Bose's current product page, tested with noise cancelling on at 50% volume in continuous playback; Bose quoted up to 24 hours at launch (2021 press release); wired listening with the audio cable extends play time
Fast charging–15 minutes gives up to 3 hours; full charge in up to 2.5 hours (Bose UK; the launch press release said two hours)
Design
Weight–240 g
Bluetooth–5.1
Two devices at once–Yes
Headphone cableYesYes
ControlsIn-line On/Off and Hi/Lo switch; the two levels affect audio volume but not noise cancellationPhysical buttons; on the right ear cup, power, volume up, volume down and a multi-function button (play, pause, calls, voice assistant); on the left ear cup, an Action button to switch modes and mute the microphone on calls
Microphones–Four external microphones for voice pickup in a beamforming array with a noise-rejection algorithm; What Hi-Fi counts six microphones in total
Fit and ear tipsAround-ear cushions with adjustable headband and replaceable ear cushionsAround-ear with plush synthetic leather ear cushions and headband; impact-resistant nylon with cast-metal hinges; folds flat for the carry case
Case weight–0.18 kg (carry case)
Water resistance detail–No water resistance rating published
Works withFixed cable with 3.5 mm audio plug; Bose also supplied dual 3.5 mm airline and 6.3 mm stereo adaptersBose Music app for iOS and Android; multipoint connection to two devices; remembers up to seven paired devices; SimpleSync with Bose smart soundbars and speakers; Spotify Tap
Colours–Triple Black and White Smoke at launch
In the box–Headphones, carry case, 30.5 cm USB-C charging cable, 3.5 mm to 2.5 mm audio cable

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