Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II: Silence Perfected, With a Few Caveats
Bose has long been synonymous with noise cancellation, and the QuietComfort Earbuds II represent the pinnacle of their expertise. Stepping into a busy street with these in is like entering a personal sanctuary of silence. But does this sonic sanctuary justify the price tag? Let’s delve into the details.
The headline feature, of course, is the active noise cancellation (ANC). Bose boasts a “CustomTune” technology that analyzes the unique acoustics of your ear canal and optimizes noise cancellation accordingly. The result is truly remarkable. Constant droning sounds like airplane engines or the hum of an office vanish almost entirely. More erratic noises, like chattering crowds, are significantly reduced, creating an oasis of calm. While not perfect (sharp, sudden noises can still break through), the QC Earbuds II offer a level of noise cancellation that surpasses most competitors. Transparency mode is equally impressive, sounding incredibly natural and allowing you to hear your surroundings clearly.
Sound quality is typically Bose: a balanced, if slightly warm, signature. Bass is present and impactful without being overwhelming, mids are clear and well-defined, and highs are crisp without being fatiguing. While audiophiles might prefer a more neutral presentation, the sound is pleasing and versatile, suitable for a wide range of genres. Codec support is limited to SBC and AAC, which is a bit disappointing at this price point; aptX would have been a welcome addition.
Design-wise, the QC Earbuds II are significantly smaller and lighter than their predecessors. They’re more comfortable to wear for extended periods, and the multiple ear tip and stability band options ensure a secure fit. The charging case, however, remains quite bulky, making it less pocketable than some alternatives. The matte finish on both the earbuds and the case feels premium and resists fingerprints well.
Control is handled via touch gestures on the earbuds. These are responsive and customizable through the Bose Music app. The app itself is well-designed and easy to navigate, offering EQ adjustments, noise cancellation settings, and other useful features. Battery life is adequate, offering around 6 hours of listening with ANC enabled, and the case provides three additional charges. It’s not class-leading, but it’s sufficient for most users.
Ultimately, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II are a premium product with a premium price tag. The unparalleled noise cancellation and comfortable design make them a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers, commuters, or anyone who values peace and quiet. However, the lack of aptX support, bulky case, and somewhat high price might give some pause. If noise cancellation is your absolute top priority, these are hard to beat. If you value codec support and portability above all else, other options may be more appealing.
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Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 95%
- Design: 90%
- Performance: 91%
- Quality: 90%
- Popularity: 90%
Top Pros
- ✅ The noise cancellation performance is industry-leading and remarkably effective.
- ✅ The comfortable and secure fit makes them suitable for extended listening sessions.
- ✅ The Transparency mode sounds incredibly natural and lets surrounding sounds in clearly.
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Key Cons
- ❌ The charging case is noticeably bulky, impacting portability.
- ❌ The earbuds lack aptX codec support, impacting sound quality for some users.
- ❌ The price is quite high, making them a significant investment for most people.
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