Bose QuietComfort Headphones Review: Are They Worth It?

The Bose QuietComfort headphones are lauded for their exceptional user experience, seamlessly blending advanced technology with intuitive controls. This review delves into the key features that make these headphones stand out, focusing on their ease of use and versatile functionality. We'll explore the intuitive button layout, the comprehensive call management capabilities, and the impressive active noise cancellation with its innovative Aware Mode.From effortlessly answering and managing multiple calls to seamlessly switching between immersive "Quiet Mode" and ambient "Aware Mode," the Bose QuietComfort headphones offer a personalized listening experience tailored to any situation. This review will determine whether the convenience, comfort, and advanced features justify the price tag, ultimately answering the question: are these headphones truly worth it?

Pros And Cons

Bose QuietComfort Headphones
  • Still going strong after over 2 years of use
  • Multi-functional buttons for media playback and call management
  • Active noise cancelling (quiet mode)
  • Aware mode allows hearing outside noises
  • Great padding

Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?

Button Functionality and Controls

The Bose QuietComfort headphones boast a user-friendly control scheme. The right earcup houses all the essential buttons. You'll find the power button, Bluetooth pairing button, volume up/down, and a multi-functional button.

Close-up of the right earcup showing the buttons
Close-up of the right earcup showing the buttons

The multi-functional button is the star of the show. A single press plays/pauses music, while double and triple presses skip forward and backward respectively. It also manages calls – a single press answers/ends, while a long press declines incoming calls.

Detailed view of the volume and multi-functional buttons
Detailed view of the volume and multi-functional buttons

Beyond basic playback, this button enables call management and switching between calls. The convenience of seamless transitions between conversations or music playback is a key highlight.

Hand demonstrating the multi-functional button actions
Hand demonstrating the multi-functional button actions

Call Handling Capabilities

Answering and ending calls is straightforward, simply using the central multi-function button. The same button lets you decline calls with a press and hold.

Visual demonstration of answering a phone call
Visual demonstration of answering a phone call

Managing multiple calls is also intuitive. A second incoming call can be answered while already on a call using the multi-function button. To decline the second call, hold the button briefly.

Illustrating how to decline a call
Illustrating how to decline a call

Switching between two active calls requires a double-press of the multi-functional button. A press and hold of the button creates a three-way conference call. The action button mutes or unmutes the call with a single press or double-press respectively.

Showing the double-press to switch between calls
Showing the double-press to switch between calls

Noise Cancellation and Aware Mode

Bose QuietComfort headphones feature active noise cancellation. A dedicated button toggles between 'Quiet Mode' and 'Aware Mode'.

Hand demonstrating the noise cancellation button
Hand demonstrating the noise cancellation button

'Quiet Mode' completely blocks out external sounds, perfect for immersive listening. 'Aware Mode' allows you to hear ambient noises, useful for maintaining situational awareness in public spaces.

Image highlighting the difference between quiet and aware mode
Image highlighting the difference between quiet and aware mode

The ability to switch seamlessly between noise cancellation levels adds versatility, catering to various listening environments and personal preferences. The comfortable padding on the headphones also contributes to prolonged use without discomfort.

Showcase of the comfortable earcup padding
Showcase of the comfortable earcup padding

Overall Review and Conclusion

The Bose QuietComfort headphones offer a comprehensive feature set. The multi-functional button is efficient and intuitive, particularly useful for managing calls and navigating music.

Overall shot of the headphones
Overall shot of the headphones

Active noise cancellation with the Aware Mode option provides a personalized listening experience adaptable to any situation. The comfortable design ensures extended use without discomfort.

Person wearing the headphones
Person wearing the headphones

These headphones are well-suited for individuals who frequently use headphones for both music and calls. The versatility and ease of use make them a compelling choice. The ability to effortlessly switch between quiet and aware modes is particularly valuable.

Final shot of the reviewer
Final shot of the reviewer