Bose has made a name for itself in the noise-canceling earbuds market in a short amount of time. While other companies have focused on offering multiple models at various price points, Bose has stuck to flagship-quality earbuds at premium prices. However, the company is now expanding into the mid-range market with its latest offering, the QuietComfort Earbuds. Priced at $179, these earbuds still deliver great sound quality, effective active noise cancellation (ANC), and a range of handy features.
One notable aspect of the QuietComfort Earbuds is their smaller size compared to Bose’s previous models. While Bose has always opted for larger earbuds, this new model takes a more compact approach. The oval-shaped stem is replaced by a circular exterior that accepts taps and presses. The earbuds also use stability bands to secure the fit, and the smaller size makes them more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time.
In terms of design, Bose has opted for a more common shape for the charging case, which is lighter and has a relatively thin lid. The case is also equipped with wireless charging, eliminating the need for an additional cover.
The QuietComfort Earbuds come with a new app called Bose QCE App, specifically designed for this model. The app provides access to a range of features and settings, including Voice Control, Low Latency Audio, Smart Calls, and Battery Prediction. The Voice Control feature allows users to handle various functions with a voice command, such as media playback, volume control, ANC mode, and calls. The app also offers multipoint Bluetooth support and a Remote Selfie tool for triggering the camera app.
When it comes to sound quality, Bose has improved its stock tuning with the QuietComfort Earbuds. While there is still an emphasis on punchy highs and bass, the earbuds deliver a more balanced and detailed sound compared to previous models. Bose also provides a Custom EQ feature that allows users to tweak the sound to their preferences. However, it is worth noting that the earbuds do not currently support Bose’s Immersive Audio, but it is expected to be added in the future.
Bose’s ANC technology has always been renowned for its effectiveness, and the QuietComfort Earbuds are no exception. The earbuds excel at blocking environmental noise, including low-to-mid-range noises like fans and white noise machines. While they may not completely silence chatty neighbors, they still reduce the distractions. The Transparency mode, or Aware mode, provides a natural sound, although it lacks the clarity of Apple’s AirPods Pro.
The battery life of the QuietComfort Earbuds is commendable, offering up to 8.5 hours of use with ANC on. The case provides two and a half additional charges, and a quick-charge feature gives users three hours of playback in just 20 minutes. The earbuds also come with wireless charging capabilities, eliminating the need for an additional cover.
Call quality is a mixed bag with the QuietComfort Earbuds. While the earbuds handle background noise well, the voice quality is slightly muffled. They may not be the best option for heavy phone users or important meetings, but they are sufficient for occasional use.
In terms of competition, the QuietComfort Earbuds compare well to Sony’s WF-1000XM5 and Sennheiser’s Accentum True Wireless earbuds. While the Sony earbuds offer more features and a higher price tag, the QuietComfort Earbuds deliver comparable performance at a more affordable price. The Sennheiser earbuds provide better sound quality but fall short in ANC capabilities.
Overall, Bose has succeeded in delivering a compelling set of earbuds with its mid-range offering. The QuietComfort Earbuds offer effective ANC, great sound quality, dependable battery life, and a range of handy features. While they may not match the performance of Bose’s pricier models, they still deliver value for the price. With the addition of Immersive Audio in the future, the QuietComfort Earbuds will become an even more compelling option for consumers.
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