Bose 866724-0100 QuietComfort 45 Headphones Review – Top Features

Description

Bose QuietComfort 45 Bluetooth Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones Review: My Honest Take

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about headphones, it’s that comfort and sound quality are non-negotiable. Enter the Bose QuietComfort 45, model number 866724-0100, a pair of headphones that had my curiosity piqued for weeks. After testing them out, I feel like I’ve made a new friend—one that blocks out the world when I need it.

First Impressions & Design

I won’t lie; unboxing these headphones felt like Christmas morning. The Triple Black color screams elegance, and the synthetic leather cushions? Absolute heaven. They’re so soft and plush, they feel like pillows for your ears. The headphones are also crafted from impact-resistant glass-filled nylon, which sounds fancy but translates to durability and lightweight comfort. At just 15.7 ounces, they never feel bulky, even during extended use.

What stands out most is the minimal clamping force. Wearing these for hours didn’t result in that dreaded “headphone headache”—a huge win!

Noise Cancelling: Quiet Mode vs. Aware Mode

The active noise cancellation (ANC) is where the magic happens. I tested these during a particularly noisy afternoon while my neighbor decided to mow his lawn (classic timing). With Quiet Mode, not a single hum from the mower made it through. It was blissful silence.

But then there’s Aware Mode, which allows ambient sounds to filter in while keeping your music going. Perfect for when you’re out for a walk and need to hear what’s happening around you—sometimes, safety first, right?

Sound Quality: High-Fidelity Audio that Impresses

Let’s talk about the sound. The TriPort acoustic architecture provides a rich, full soundstage. Bass is deep without being overpowering, mids are warm, and the treble is crystal clear. Whether I was listening to classical symphonies or bass-heavy hip-hop tracks, the volume-optimized Active EQ kept everything balanced, even at low volumes.

I also tried a few podcasts, and the clarity of the spoken word blew me away. It’s like having the host whisper directly into your ears.

Battery Life & Charging

Battery life is another area where these headphones shine. Bose promises 22-24 hours of playback, and they deliver. I used them for an entire weekend without needing to recharge. When I did, the USB-C charging port meant a quick 15-minute charge gave me three extra hours. That’s pretty handy for those “oops, I forgot to charge them” moments.

Connectivity & Controls

Pairing these with my phone via Bluetooth 5.1 was seamless. The connection is stable up to 30 feet, so I could wander around my apartment without the dreaded dropouts. The physical buttons on the earcups are intuitive: volume up, down, play/pause, and a noise-canceling toggle. I’ve never been a fan of touch-sensitive controls, so this straightforward approach was refreshing.

My Experience vs. Competitors

Now, how do these stack up against competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM5 or the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless?

• The Bose QuietComfort 45 excels in comfort and lightweight design, easily beating the Sony for all-day wearability.
• Sony’s ANC might be a smidge better, but Bose offers a clearer and more balanced sound signature.
• Sennheiser? Great sound quality, but their heavier build and pricier tag make the QC45 a better value for most users.

A Few Quirks

Not everything is perfect. The microphone quality for calls could use some improvement, especially in windy conditions. And while I appreciate the ability to connect via both Bluetooth and a 2.5mm auxiliary cable, the sound quality when using the wire isn’t as impressive as in wireless mode.

Is It Worth It?

Considering all the features—premium design, world-class noise cancellation, and stellar sound quality—the Bose QuietComfort 45 is a solid investment. While it’s not the cheapest option, the value-for-money ratio makes it a no-brainer for anyone prioritizing comfort and sound.

Pros

• Unmatched Comfort: The lightweight design and plush ear cushions make them ideal for long listening sessions.
• Stellar Battery Life: Up to 24 hours, plus rapid charging via USB-C.
• Balanced Sound: High-fidelity audio with optimized EQ for consistent performance.
• Quiet & Aware Modes: Versatility with ANC and ambient sound options.
• Durability: Built with impact-resistant materials for long-term use.

Cons

• Mic Struggles in Wind: Call quality drops significantly in noisy outdoor settings.
• Limited Wired Performance: Audio quality dips when using the aux cable.
• Price Tag: Premium features come at a premium price, though worth it for most users.

What Comes with the Product

• Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones
• USB-C Charging Cable
• Compact Carry Case

How to Use Guide

1. Charge the Headphones: Use the included USB-C cable for a full charge before first use.
2. Pair via Bluetooth: Turn on the headphones, go to your device’s Bluetooth settings, and select “Bose QC45.”
3. Adjust Noise Settings: Use the left earcup button to toggle between Quiet Mode and Aware Mode.
4. Control Playback: Use the right earcup buttons for play/pause, volume, and skipping tracks.
5. Download the Bose Music App: Customize settings, manage connections, and update firmware.

Expert Tips & Recommendations

• Maximize ANC Efficiency: Ensure your headphones fit snugly over your ears to optimize noise-canceling performance.
• Use Aware Mode When Traveling: Ideal for staying aware of announcements at airports or while walking in busy areas.
• Protect Your Investment: Store the headphones in the included carry case when not in use to avoid damage.
• Regular Software Updates: The Bose Music App provides firmware updates that can improve performance.

Warranty & Support Information

The Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones come with a one-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Bose also provides 24/7 customer support via phone and live chat. Additionally, the Bose Music App offers troubleshooting tips, firmware updates, and FAQs to ensure a smooth user experience.

Additional information