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More expensive doesn't always mean better, and the second generation Bose QuietComfort headphones are proof of exactly that. No shade to the second gen Bose QC Ultra headphones — they are still the most comfortable headphones I've ever worn. Good as the brand's premium flagship model is, however, it was a boring upgrade upon launch and remains so now (such is the case with many a tech release these days).
That's because the name of the game these days is that making small tweaks — like 10 percent better noise cancellation or a new colorway — constitutes an entirely new generation release. The latest Bose QuietComfort headphones, on the other hand, actually make real changes while retaining the same $359 price tag as the original QuietComforts.Sure, Bose didn't go totally into left field, but they made tweaks where it mattered most, closing the performance gap between the QCs and the $449 Ultras, and resulting in the most well-rounded pair of headphones I've seen from the brand to date. Let's get into why.
I requested the eucalyptus green pair because look at them.
What I liked: The list is long, but I'll aim to keep it brief. These QuietComforts are wearable for hours and hours on end with earrings and glasses, feature some of the best (though not quite industry leading) active noise cancellation that's manually adjustable, solid sound quality without any adjustments, several ways to listen, fun colorways that make them feel like a real accessory, intuitive touch controls, replaceable ear cups for future proofing, and most importantly, are a good deal cheaper than most other premium options available. What I didn't like: The app only has a three-band equalizer, the noise cancellation can get staticky with sudden spikes of noise (just like the first gen QuietComforts), and despite offering USB-C listening for lossless audio, these headphones feature no options for passive playback. SpecsActive noise cancellation: Yes, with manual adjustment availableMicrophones: SixLossless playback: Wired USB-C audio up to 24bit/48kHzEqualizer: Three-band custom equalizerSpatial audio: Bose TrueSpatial technology with Immersive Audio modes for Still, Motion, and CinemaBattery life: 24 hours per charge (18 hours with Immersive Audio)Quick charge: 15-minute charge for 2.5 hours of playbackConnection: Bluetooth 5.4Multipoint: YesWeight: 0.5 poundsColors: Black, white smoke, eucalyptus green*, dewdrop mint*, rosewood mauve* (*limited edition colors)Pricing and availabilityAs I mentioned up top, these headphones retail for $359 — the exact same list price as the first generation QuietComfort headphones. At the time I'm writing this review, the first gen headphones are on sale for $199 in one colorway, with the remaining options available for $229. While these prices are likely reflective of the release of the new generation, I wouldn't be surprised if we see the second gen QuietComforts drop down to $299 (or lower) during the upcoming Black Friday season.
