Design and Build
The Bose QuietComfort 45 maintains the signature lightweight and understated design of the QuietComfort series. Its construction features a durable combination of plastic and metal, ensuring robustness without adding unnecessary weight. The ear cups and headband are padded with plush synthetic leather, contributing to an exceptionally comfortable fit.
The headphones are foldable, making them portable and easy to store in the included hard-shell carrying case. The minimalist aesthetic is available in classic colors like Black and White Smoke.
Comfort
True to its name, the QC45 prioritizes comfort. The ear cups are generously padded, and the lightweight build ensures long-lasting wear without discomfort. Bose has designed these headphones for extended use, making them a perfect companion for long flights, workdays, or marathon listening sessions.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
The QC45 features enhanced active noise cancellation, utilizing Bose’s proprietary technology to deliver one of the best ANC performances in the market. It effectively blocks out low-frequency sounds like airplane engines and midrange noise such as chatter.
Additionally, the new Aware Mode (Transparency Mode) allows external sound to pass through, letting users stay aware of their surroundings when needed. This mode is especially useful in situations where situational awareness is critical, like commuting or working in shared spaces.
Audio Performance
The QC45 delivers Bose’s signature sound profile: clear, balanced, and engaging. With precise tuning, the headphones provide a slight emphasis on bass, ensuring a dynamic listening experience without overpowering the mids or highs. Vocals and instruments come through clearly, making the QC45 suitable for various genres.
While the QC45 doesn’t offer customizable EQ settings natively, users can tweak the audio profile through the Bose Music app. The headphones are optimized for both casual listening and professional use.
Battery Life
With up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, the QC45 ensures reliable performance for long listening sessions or cross-country flights. The headphones also support fast charging, offering up to 3 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge via USB-C. A full charge takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Connectivity and Controls
The QC45 uses Bluetooth 5.1, ensuring a stable connection with low latency. The headphones support multipoint pairing, allowing seamless switching between two devices. Physical buttons on the ear cups offer tactile control over playback, volume, calls, and noise cancellation modes.
Microphone Quality
Bose has upgraded the microphone system in the QC45, adding a four-microphone array for improved call clarity. This system ensures your voice is captured clearly even in noisy environments, making the QC45 an excellent choice for phone calls or virtual meetings.
Specifications
Audio
- Driver Type: Dynamic
- Frequency Response: Not specified by Bose (optimized for balanced sound)
- Sound Profile: Balanced, with a slight emphasis on bass
Noise Cancellation
- Type: Advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Modes: Quiet Mode (ANC), Aware Mode (Transparency)
Battery
- Battery Life: Up to 24 hours (with ANC)
- Charging Port: USB-C
- Quick Charge: 3 hours playback with 15 minutes of charging
- Full Charge Time: Approximately 2.5 hours
Connectivity
- Bluetooth Version: 5.1
- Codec Support: SBC, AAC
- Multipoint Pairing: Yes (connects to two devices simultaneously)
- Wired Connection: 2.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable included
Build and Dimensions
- Weight: 240 grams
- Ear Pad Material: Synthetic leather
- Foldable Design: Yes
- Colors: Black, White Smoke
Included Accessories
- Hard carrying case
- USB-C charging cable
- 2.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable
- Quick start guide
Key Features
- Exceptional ANC: Bose’s industry-leading noise cancellation for immersive listening.
- Aware Mode: Transparency mode for environmental awareness.
- Balanced Sound Profile: Clear audio with a slight bass emphasis for all genres.
- Lightweight Comfort: Designed for long-term wear with plush padding.
- Reliable Battery Life: Up to 24 hours of playback with quick-charge capability.
- Multipoint Connectivity: Seamlessly connect to and switch between two devices.
- Improved Microphones: Four-microphone array for clear call quality.
Performance
Sound Quality
The QC45 offers a well-rounded sound profile, ideal for most users. The bass is slightly enhanced, providing a satisfying punch without overshadowing vocals or instruments. The mids are clear and warm, while the highs are crisp and detailed, ensuring a pleasant and fatigue-free listening experience. While audiophiles might miss advanced codec support like aptX or LDAC, the AAC codec ensures respectable audio quality over Bluetooth.
Noise Cancellation
The ANC is the QC45’s standout feature, effectively isolating users from external noise in various environments, such as offices, airplanes, or crowded streets. It is particularly effective at canceling low-frequency sounds like engine hums and air conditioning. The addition of the Aware Mode makes it easy to transition from isolation to environmental awareness without removing the headphones.
Comfort
Weighing just 240 grams, the QC45 feels incredibly lightweight and comfortable. The soft ear cushions and padded headband contribute to a snug yet non-constrictive fit. Whether you’re working long hours or traveling, the QC45 ensures a fatigue-free experience.
Microphone and Call Quality
The four-microphone array excels in capturing voice clarity while suppressing background noise. The QC45 is a strong performer for phone calls and virtual meetings, even in moderately noisy environments.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Industry-leading noise cancellation
- Comfortable and lightweight design for extended use
- Balanced sound profile suitable for various genres
- Long battery life (24 hours) with fast charging
- Clear call quality with upgraded microphone system
- Reliable Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity with multipoint pairing
- Intuitive physical button controls
Cons
- No advanced codec support (e.g., aptX, LDAC)
- Lack of customizable EQ (requires Bose Music app)
- Plastic build lacks the premium feel of some competitors
- Limited battery life compared to some newer models (e.g., Sony WH-1000XM5)
Use Cases
- Frequent Travelers: The excellent ANC and comfortable fit make it a top choice for long flights or commutes.
- Office Professionals: Aware Mode and superior call quality enhance productivity in work environments.
- Audiophiles and Casual Listeners: Balanced sound and long battery life suit both critical and casual listening.
- Students: Lightweight design and noise cancellation create an ideal study companion.
Conclusion
The Bose QuietComfort 45 is a testament to Bose’s expertise in crafting premium noise-canceling headphones. With its exceptional ANC, comfortable design, and balanced audio performance, the QC45 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking reliable headphones for music, calls, or work. While it may lack some advanced features like high-resolution codec support, its focus on comfort, practicality, and performance makes it one of the best options in its class.
Whether you’re traveling, working, or relaxing, the Bose QC45 delivers a refined and immersive listening experience that lives up to the QuietComfort name.