Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesThe Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) are a strong choice if you want comfortable over-ear headphones with effective noise cancellation, physical controls and new immersive-audio features. Their reported launch price was $359 in the US, but the case is less compelling if you need long battery life with immersive audio, automatic wear detection or a stated water-resistance rating.
What’s new in the second generation?
Bose positions this model as a refreshed version of its standard QuietComfort headphones—not the separate QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen). The changes Bose highlights are an all-new design, TrueSpatial Technology for immersive sound and updated ActiveSense, which adapts noise cancellation in Aware Mode. Bose also advertises clearer calls than on the previous generation; that is a manufacturer claim, not an independent call-quality finding. Bose’s product page lists six microphones and removable cushions.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The standard model supports Bluetooth 5.4, multipoint and Google Fast Pair, according to What Hi-Fi?’s comparison. That comparison says it supports AAC and SBC codecs, but not aptX Adaptive, which is supported by the separate Ultra model. What Hi-Fi? noted it had not yet tested the standard second-generation headphones when it published its comparison, so its article is useful for listed feature differences rather than a hands-on verdict. Read the comparison details.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
How do they sound and feel?
Tom’s Guide’s September 4, 2026 review describes plush padding, comfortable long sessions, physical buttons and strong noise cancellation, including during flight use. Those are one reviewer’s impressions, not a controlled comparison or a guarantee that the fit will suit every listener.
#1 Best Overall
- MODERN, UPDATED DESIGN: A sleek, streamlined take on the original noise cancelling headphones. All-new pill-shaped earcups and an adjustable sliding headband hit on contemporary design trends and modern aesthetics.
- COMFORTABLE FIT: The new headband is wider than the previous gen, and adds more of the supple, synthetic leather found on the earcups. The headphones strike the right balance of clamping force and comfort for a secure fit and lightweight feel.
- IMPROVED AUDIO PERFORMANCE: The addition of Bose TrueSpatial Technology gives listeners a more natural, immersive experience — no matter the content. QC Headphones (2nd Gen) now also feature high-fidelity lossless audio delivered by USB-C connection.
- LEGENDARY NOISE CANCELLING: Legendary Bose QuietControl noise cancelling technology includes updated ActiveSense Tech for adaptive acoustic noise reduction to smooth unwanted spikes in noise when listening in Aware Mode.
- MORE MODES: In addition to Quiet Mode for full noise cancelling and Aware Mode for transparency, these headphones now include Immersion, Cinema Mode, and ANR off. Cinema Mode enhances video content for an immersive experience with more layered sound.
The reviewer characterizes the sound as warm and engaging, with punchy bass and strong mids, while noting that treble and high vocals can seem restrained. If you prefer a brighter presentation or want to fine-tune the sound, try them with your own music and check the app’s available adjustments before buying. Tom’s Guide reports ten ANC adjustment levels in the Bose app. See Tom’s Guide’s review.
How long does the battery last?
Bose rates the headphones for up to 24 hours of use, or up to 18 hours with Immersive Audio. Tom’s Guide likewise reports 18 hours with both ANC and Immersive Audio enabled. These are stated maximums, not a promise of the same runtime at every volume or setting. If you plan to use immersive audio often, treat the shorter figure as the more relevant one.
Rank #2
- MODERN, UPDATED DESIGN: A sleek, streamlined take on the original noise cancelling headphones. All-new pill-shaped earcups and an adjustable sliding headband hit on contemporary design trends and modern aesthetics.
- COMFORTABLE FIT: The new headband is wider than the previous gen, and adds more of the supple, synthetic leather found on the earcups. The headphones strike the right balance of clamping force and comfort for a secure fit and lightweight feel.
- IMPROVED AUDIO PERFORMANCE: The addition of Bose TrueSpatial Technology gives listeners a more natural, immersive experience — no matter the content. QC Headphones (2nd Gen) now also feature high-fidelity lossless audio delivered by USB-C connection.
- LEGENDARY NOISE CANCELLING: Legendary Bose QuietControl noise cancelling technology includes updated ActiveSense Tech for adaptive acoustic noise reduction to smooth unwanted spikes in noise when listening in Aware Mode.
- MORE MODES: In addition to Quiet Mode for full noise cancelling and Aware Mode for transparency, these headphones now include Immersion, Cinema Mode, and ANR off. Cinema Mode enhances video content for an immersive experience with more layered sound.
Tom’s Guide calls the runtime middle-of-the-pack and flags the absence of wear detection: the headphones do not automatically pause or power off just because you take them off. You will need to manage playback and power yourself if conserving battery matters.
Can you use them with a cable?
Yes. Bose says the USB-C connection supports wired listening from analogue sources, and the included USB-C-to-3.5 mm cable provides that connection. The included USB-C-to-USB-C cable can charge the headphones while you listen and carry USB audio. Bose lists both cables and a carry case in the box, along with the headphones and a safety sheet; there is no evidence in the product listing that you need to buy either audio cable separately.
Rank #3
- MODERN, UPDATED DESIGN: A sleek, streamlined take on the original noise cancelling headphones. All-new pill-shaped earcups and an adjustable sliding headband hit on contemporary design trends and modern aesthetics.
- COMFORTABLE FIT: The new headband is wider than the previous gen, and adds more of the supple, synthetic leather found on the earcups. The headphones strike the right balance of clamping force and comfort for a secure fit and lightweight feel.
- IMPROVED AUDIO PERFORMANCE: The addition of Bose TrueSpatial Technology gives listeners a more natural, immersive experience — no matter the content. QC Headphones (2nd Gen) now also feature high-fidelity lossless audio delivered by USB-C connection.
- LEGENDARY NOISE CANCELLING: Legendary Bose QuietControl noise cancelling technology includes updated ActiveSense Tech for adaptive acoustic noise reduction to smooth unwanted spikes in noise when listening in Aware Mode.
- MORE MODES: In addition to Quiet Mode for full noise cancelling and Aware Mode for transparency, these headphones now include Immersion, Cinema Mode, and ANR off. Cinema Mode enhances video content for an immersive experience with more layered sound.
What are the main drawbacks?
- No wear detection: You must pause or switch the headphones off yourself when you remove them, as Tom’s Guide notes.
- No stated IP rating: Tom’s Guide reports that the product has no IP rating and advises keeping it to commuting and desk use rather than gym sessions. Do not assume it is protected against sweat or water.
- Immersive audio reduces the stated battery maximum: Bose’s figure falls from up to 24 hours to up to 18 hours with Immersive Audio.
- Sound preference is personal: Tom’s Guide found the treble somewhat restrained, so listeners who prioritize prominent high frequencies should audition the headphones if possible.
How much do they cost, and how do they compare with the Ultra?
TechRadar reported launch pricing of $359 in the US, £299 in the UK and AU$549.99 in Australia after Bose announced the headphones on August 6, 2026. Those are launch figures, not current quotes; check local retailer prices and stock before deciding. Tom’s Guide also noted that the predecessor and Ultra models could be discounted, which can change the value calculation.
The standard QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) and QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) are distinct products. The feature distinction established in What Hi-Fi?’s comparison is codec support: the standard model lists AAC and SBC, while the Ultra supports aptX Adaptive. Consider the Ultra if that codec support matters to your devices; consider the standard model if its listed features and a lower current price better fit your priorities. Neither source establishes a controlled head-to-head result across comfort, ANC or sound, so compare the features you will use and the prices available where you live rather than treating one as universally better. TechRadar’s report covers the launch and its pricing context.
Rank #4
- MODERN, UPDATED DESIGN: A sleek, streamlined take on the original noise cancelling headphones. All-new pill-shaped earcups and an adjustable sliding headband hit on contemporary design trends and modern aesthetics.
- COMFORTABLE FIT: The new headband is wider than the previous gen, and adds more of the supple, synthetic leather found on the earcups. The headphones strike the right balance of clamping force and comfort for a secure fit and lightweight feel.
- IMPROVED AUDIO PERFORMANCE: The addition of Bose TrueSpatial Technology gives listeners a more natural, immersive experience — no matter the content. QC Headphones (2nd Gen) now also feature high-fidelity lossless audio delivered by USB-C connection.
- LEGENDARY NOISE CANCELLING: Legendary Bose QuietControl noise cancelling technology includes updated ActiveSense Tech for adaptive acoustic noise reduction to smooth unwanted spikes in noise when listening in Aware Mode.
- MORE MODES: In addition to Quiet Mode for full noise cancelling and Aware Mode for transparency, these headphones now include Immersion, Cinema Mode, and ANR off. Cinema Mode enhances video content for an immersive experience with more layered sound.
Who should buy the Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)?
They make the most sense for someone who values a comfortable fit, physical controls and strong noise cancellation, and who is interested in Bose’s immersive-audio features or USB-C listening. The included analogue cable also makes wired listening straightforward.
Look elsewhere—or wait for a better local price—if automatic pause and power behavior, a stated IP rating or longer runtime with immersive audio are priorities. At the reported launch price, those omissions matter; at a discount, the comfort and ANC may make the trade-off easier to accept.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- BREAKTHROUGH SPATIALIZED AUDIO: Super immersive sound spatializes everything, taking the music out of your head and placing it in front of you to push the boundaries of listening.
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Enjoy Bose’s best noise cancellation for headphones with Quiet Mode, turn on Aware Mode to hear more of your surroundings, or combine noise cancellation and Bose Immersive Audio with Immersion Mode.
- NEW CINEMA MODE: Bring video content to life like never before with Cinema Mode; spatialize and balance background sound and sound effects for movie-like immersion wherever you go.
- USB VOICE: Use the built-in mic to enjoy high-quality two-way communication for phone calls and video conferencing while connected via USB-C.
- ENHANCED LONG-LASTING BATTERY: Up to 30 hours of play time (23 with Immersive Audio)* keeps the music playing through even the longest listening sessions. Charge your headphones with the included USB-C cord and listen to music at the same time.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
