Explore Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II Review: Are They the Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds?

Description

Design & Build Quality

I’ve used quite a few earbuds over the years, but the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II (Item model number: 870730-0020) genuinely stand out in terms of design. The Soapstone color gives them a sleek and modern look, and the compact charging case fits snugly in my pocket without feeling bulky. The earbuds themselves are lightweight, and I almost forgot I had them on during a long day of testing. The plastic material feels durable yet smooth, and the rounded ear tips add a touch of sophistication. They’re not flashy, but they definitely have that “premium gadget” vibe you’d expect from Bose.

Battery Life & Charging

I’ve had earbuds that died on me mid-workout, and it’s always a pain. Thankfully, these wireless earbuds are reliable in this department. The claimed six-hour battery life per charge holds up pretty well. I left them running on a mix of podcasts and music during a workday, and they lasted until I needed a break myself. The charging case provides three additional charges, giving me a total of up to 24 hours of use. The quick-charge feature is a savior; I got two hours of playback from a 20-minute charge. It’s like they knew I’d forget to plug them in overnight.

Fit & Comfort

Earbuds are pointless if they don’t fit well. My ears have rejected many over the years, but the Bose Fit Kit made all the difference. With three sizes of silicone ear tips and stability bands, I was able to find the perfect combination for my ears. Even during a long jog, they didn’t budge. My friend, who notoriously struggles to find earbuds that fit her smaller ears, borrowed them for a test and couldn’t stop raving. I’ve worn them for hours on end without any discomfort, which is rare for me.

Features

The customization options are impressive. I spent some time fiddling with the Bose app, adjusting noise cancellation levels and EQ settings to match my preferences. The app walks you through the setup process, making it nearly foolproof. The touch controls are straightforward; a quick swipe or tap lets you skip tracks, play/pause, or toggle noise cancellation without reaching for your phone. The ability to use one earbud at a time is a convenient touch for phone calls or when I need to stay partially aware of my surroundings.

Noise Cancellation & Ambient Mode

I live in a noisy neighborhood, so noise cancellation is a must for me. Bose’s proprietary noise-cancelling tech is no joke. I popped these in while my neighbor was mowing his lawn, and it was like magic—the noise disappeared. The CustomTune sound calibration tailors the experience to your ears, and you can toggle between Quiet Mode and Aware Mode seamlessly. Aware Mode is a lifesaver when I’m out for a walk and need to hear traffic.

Sound Quality & Performance

As a music enthusiast, I’m picky about sound quality, and these earbuds delivered. The bass is deep but not overpowering, and the treble is crisp without being harsh. Listening to my favorite tracks felt immersive, almost like being in a studio. Phone calls were crystal clear, and the person on the other end had no complaints about hearing me, even when I was outside.

Durability & Water Resistance

I’ve accidentally dropped these a couple of times, and they survived without a scratch. The IPX4 rating means they can handle sweat and a bit of rain, which is great for workouts or unexpected drizzles. While I wouldn’t take them swimming, they’re robust enough for daily use.

Warranty

Bose offers a standard warranty, which provides peace of mind. I haven’t had any issues yet, but knowing there’s backup if something goes wrong is reassuring.

Strong Points

• Top-tier noise cancellation for an immersive experience.
• Comfortable fit with customizable ear tips and stability bands.
• Excellent sound quality with customizable EQ settings.
• Reliable battery life with quick-charge capability.

Weaknesses

• Slightly pricey compared to alternatives.
• Touch controls can be overly sensitive when wearing gloves or in certain conditions.
• Not specifically designed for high-intensity sports, as sweat can slightly affect the fit.

Product Competitors

Comparing these to the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Pro, I’d say the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II excel in noise cancellation and sound customization. While the AirPods Pro might have a slight edge in seamless integration with Apple devices, they don’t quite match the immersive noise-cancelling experience Bose offers. The Sony earbuds provide comparable sound quality but feel a bit bulkier in the ears. For anyone prioritizing noise cancellation and fit, these Bose earbuds are the clear winner.

Bang for the Buck

Are they worth the investment? If you’re after high-quality sound, top-notch noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit, the answer is yes. While they’re not the cheapest option, the performance and features justify the price. For me, they’ve been a game changer during commutes, workouts, and casual listening. Investing in these is like treating your ears to a five-star experience.

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