Bose has always been synonymous with high-quality sound and industry-leading noise cancellation, and with the release of their second-generation QuietComfort Earbuds, the company is aiming to reset the bar for what true wireless earbuds can deliver. While it's no secret that Apple has been stepping up its game with the new AirPods 4, which include noise-canceling capabilities, Bose decided to drop their new offering right alongside Apple’s release. However, unlike previous iterations of the Bose QuietComfort earbuds, the new model marks a significant shift in design, functionality, and performance, positioning itself as a serious contender in the crowded earbud market.
A New Look and Feel
The most obvious change to the second-gen Bose QuietComfort Earbuds is the removal of the signature stem that was a defining feature of the QuietComfort II and Ultra models. This new design features a more traditional earbud shape that is compact and sleek, offering a less intrusive look compared to the previous models. The earbuds now protrude slightly more than their predecessors, but the absence of the stem is a welcome departure for many, offering a more comfortable and natural fit. For users like myself who prefer a simpler, more classic earbud style, this change is a positive one.
The charging case also sees a redesign with a matte finish that reduces fingerprints, a subtle but practical improvement. The case is now wireless charging-compatible, which adds convenience, especially for those already using wireless chargers for their devices. Bose has clearly moved towards a more lifestyle-oriented approach with these earbuds, and the look and feel are reflective of that shift.
New App and Enhanced Features
Perhaps the most notable change isn’t the earbuds themselves but the accompanying app, which is a complete overhaul from the one used with previous Bose earbud models. The new Bose Music app offers a smoother user experience, which has been a pain point for many users of the previous models. The app is free from the usual glitches and delays that plagued earlier versions, and this is a significant step forward for Bose in improving the overall user experience.
The new app also offers customizable features such as an equalizer (EQ), although, as of launch, the promised five-band EQ is not yet available. Bose has assured users that this feature will come in a future update, but for now, users are limited to the default EQ settings, which already offer impressive sound. Additionally, the app provides new features like the ability to control camera settings remotely through the earbuds and adjust low-latency mode, which is particularly useful for mobile gaming or watching video content.
Noise Cancelling and Sound Quality
When it comes to noise cancellation, Bose remains at the top of its game. The second-gen QuietComfort Earbuds offer excellent noise isolation, even when compared to the more expensive QuietComfort II. Whether you're in a noisy café or on a crowded train, these earbuds do an excellent job of blocking out both low and high-frequency sounds. The noise cancellation is incredibly effective at muting background noise like engine hums, AC units, and even conversations, providing a truly immersive listening experience.
Bose has priced the new QuietComfort earbuds at $179, which is significantly cheaper than the $279 QuietComfort II but still manages to deliver a comparable level of performance. For those who prioritize top-tier noise cancellation without breaking the bank, the second-gen QuietComfort earbuds are a great option. In addition to traditional noise-canceling modes, the earbuds also feature an "Aware" mode, which allows ambient sound to pass through so users can stay aware of their surroundings without needing to take the earbuds out.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is another area where Bose has made substantial improvements. On a full charge, the second-gen QuietComfort Earbuds provide up to 8.5 hours of playback time, with the charging case offering a total of 31 hours of use. This is an improvement over the previous models, which had a slightly shorter battery life. Additionally, the earbuds support fast charging, providing up to two hours of use from just a 20-minute charge—although this is still behind the ultra-fast charging found in some competitors' models.
The earbuds are rated with an IPX4 water resistance, meaning they can withstand splashes, rain, and sweat. However, they should not be submerged in water, so users should avoid wearing them while swimming or in extremely wet conditions. For everyday use, such as at the gym or during a run, the second-gen QuietComfort Earbuds hold up well and stay securely in place.
Call Quality and Performance
Bose has always been a leader in call quality, and the second-gen QuietComfort Earbuds live up to that reputation. The combination of active noise cancellation and Bose’s excellent microphone technology ensures clear call quality even in noisy environments. I tested the earbuds in a windy outdoor setting, and the results were impressive. The earbuds effectively filtered out background noise while maintaining the clarity of my voice during calls.
In terms of audio performance, the second-gen QuietComfort Earbuds deliver a powerful and engaging sound. Bose’s tagline for the earbuds is "sound that's powerful but not precious," and this philosophy is evident in the way the earbuds deliver their audio. The out-of-the-box sound is aggressive, with a punchy bass and bright treble that makes the music feel energetic and fun. For bass lovers, the earbuds feature a "Bass Boost" setting, which adds more depth to the low end. While some may find the bass a bit overwhelming, the midrange remains clear, and the treble is still sharp, offering a balanced sound overall.
For those who want a more open sound, Bose will be releasing an immersive audio mode, akin to spatial audio, which promises to provide a wider and more expansive soundstage. However, this feature is not yet available and will likely be added through an app update.
Final Thoughts
With the second-generation QuietComfort Earbuds, Bose has truly reinvented their approach to wireless earbuds. By removing the stem design, improving the app, enhancing battery life, and maintaining their industry-leading noise-canceling technology, Bose has created a pair of earbuds that deliver excellent performance at a more affordable price point. At $179, they offer a strong value for anyone looking for top-tier sound quality, superior noise cancellation, and reliable performance across a variety of uses, from casual listening to calls and workouts.
The second-gen Bose QuietComfort Earbuds represent a fresh start for the company, hitting the reset button and delivering a product that feels refined and well thought out. Whether you're a longtime Bose fan or a first-time buyer, these earbuds are well worth considering.
