Bose QuietComfort vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones

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

Better figure, where one is clearly better

QuietComfort compared with QuietComfort Headphones
BoseQuietComfortBoseQuietComfort Headphones
Overview
Released2000September 2023
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 controlsQuiet Mode (full noise cancelling) and Aware Mode (full transparency), plus custom modes with adjustable noise cancelling in the Bose app; Wind Block can be added to any mode; microphones inside and outside the ear cups
Audio features–TriPort acoustic structure; three-band EQ (bass, mid-range, treble) with presets in the Bose app
Battery
Listening time (maker's claim)Up to 80 hoursUp to 24 hours
Battery life detailBose states an average 80 hours from two AAA alkaline cells; the indicator flashes with at least eight hours remainingUp to 24 hours with noise cancelling on, tested by Bose at 75 dB SPL; the headphones don't play while charging
Fast charging–15 minutes gives up to 4 hours (Bose UK FAQ; Bose UK's comparison table says 2.5 hours); full charge in up to 2.5 hours (owner's guide and spec table; the FAQ says 2 hours)
Design
Weight–236 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 back of the ear cups; on the right, a Power/Bluetooth switch, volume up and down and a multi-function button (play, pause, skip, calls); on the left, an Action button for modes, customisable as a shortcut to Spotify Tap or battery level
Microphones–Built-in microphones for calls; the audio cable has an in-line microphone
Fit and ear tipsAround-ear cushions with adjustable headband and replaceable ear cushionsAround-ear (circumaural) with removable protein leather cushions; steel in the headband; metal and plastic build; folds for the 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 app (launched with Bose Music) for iOS and Android; multipoint connection to two devices; SimpleSync with Bose smart soundbars and speakers; Spotify Tap
Colours–Black, White Smoke and limited-edition Cypress Green at launch
In the box–Headphones, carry case, 3.5 mm to 2.5 mm audio cable with microphone, USB-C (A to C) cable (30 cm), safety sheet

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