The world of wireless headphones has never been more exciting, with top brands like Bose continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence. Two of their most popular models, the QuietComfort 35 and 45, have stolen the hearts of audiophiles and commuters alike. But, with so many similarities, it’s no wonder that many potential buyers find themselves torn between these two seemingly identical headphones. Fear not, dear reader, for we’re about to embark on a journey to dissect the differences between the Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45, helping you make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the QuietComfort 35 and 45 appear to be identical twins, but look closer, and you’ll notice some subtle yet significant differences. Both headphones boast the signature Bose design language, exuding a sense of premium quality and durability. However, the QuietComfort 45 takes it up a notch with a slightly more refined and sleeker design.
The QuietComfort 45 features a more minimalist aesthetic, with a reduced number of vents on the earcup and a cleaner, more streamlined look. This design tweak not only makes the headphone look more modern but also helps reduce wind noise and improves overall sound quality.
On the other hand, the QuietComfort 35 has a slightly more pronounced bulge on the earcup, which some users might find slightly bulkier. However, this design element doesn’t necessarily detract from the overall look and feel of the headphone.
In terms of build quality, both headphones are built to last, with a mix of plastic and metal components that exude a sense of solidity and durability. The earpads on both models are comfortable and breathable, with a soft, velvety texture that provides excellent noise isolation.
Weight and Portability
When it comes to weight, the QuietComfort 45 takes the crown, weighing in at a mere 235 grams (8.3 oz). This makes it an excellent choice for long flights, road trips, or extended use. The QuietComfort 35, on the other hand, tips the scales at 235 grams (8.4 oz), making it only slightly heavier.
In terms of portability, both headphones are designed to be compact and convenient, with a foldable design that allows them to fit snugly into their respective carrying cases. However, the QuietComfort 45’s slightly more compact design makes it a better fit for smaller bags and backpacks.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
This is where things get really interesting. Both headphones boast exceptional sound quality, with clear, detailed audio reproduction and deep bass response. However, there are some subtle differences between the two models.
The QuietComfort 45 features an updated noise cancellation system, with improved noise-rejecting technology that allows for more precise noise cancellation. This means that the QuietComfort 45 is better equipped to handle noisy environments, such as busy offices or crowded public transportation.
The QuietComfort 35, on the other hand, still boasts an excellent noise cancellation system, but it’s not quite as effective as the QuietComfort 45. That being said, the difference is relatively minor, and both headphones are more than capable of providing an immersive listening experience.
In terms of sound signature, both headphones are pretty balanced, with clear, detailed treble and deep, rumbling bass. However, some users might find the QuietComfort 45 to have a slightly more pronounced bass response, which can be beneficial for fans of bass-heavy music.
Volume and Noise Cancellation Modes
Both headphones feature adjustable noise cancellation modes, allowing you to customize your listening experience to suit your environment. The QuietComfort 45 takes it a step further, with an additional “Aware” mode that allows you to hear your surroundings while still enjoying your music.
The QuietComfort 35, on the other hand, has a more traditional noise cancellation system, with three predefined modes: Off, Low, and High. While this might seem like a limitation, the QuietComfort 35’s noise cancellation system is still highly effective, and the three preset modes provide a good balance between noise cancellation and awareness of your surroundings.
Battery Life and Charging
When it comes to battery life, both headphones are designed to last, with up to 24 hours of runtime on a single charge. However, the QuietComfort 45 takes the lead, with up to 24.5 hours of battery life, making it an excellent choice for long trips or extended use.
The QuietComfort 45 also features rapid charging, which can give you up to 3 hours of playback with just 15 minutes of charging. This is a major advantage for users who are always on-the-go and need a quick top-up to get them through the day.
The QuietComfort 35, on the other hand, takes around 2.5 hours to fully charge, which is still respectable, but not as impressive as the QuietComfort 45’s rapid charging capabilities.
Additional Features and Accessories
Both headphones come with a range of features and accessories that enhance the overall listening experience.
The QuietComfort 45 features a sleek, compact charging case that doubles as a protective cover, making it easier to store and transport your headphones.
The QuietComfort 35, on the other hand, comes with a more traditional carrying case that, while still protective, is slightly bulkier than the QuietComfort 45’s charging case.
In terms of additional features, both headphones have similar spec sheets, with features like Bluetooth 5.0, NFC pairing, and voice assistant integration (Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri).
| Feature | QuietComfort 35 | QuietComfort 45 |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| NFC Pairing | ||
| Voice Assistant Integration | Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri | Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri |
Conclusion
So, which headphone is right for you? The answer ultimately depends on your priorities and budget. If you’re looking for a more premium design, improved noise cancellation, and rapid charging, the QuietComfort 45 is the clear winner.
On the other hand, if you’re on a tighter budget and still want an exceptional listening experience, the QuietComfort 35 is an excellent choice. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of the QuietComfort 45, it’s still a highly capable headphone that’s sure to impress.
Ultimately, both headphones are fantastic options, and you can’t go wrong with either one. By understanding the subtle differences between the Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget. Happy listening!
What are the main differences between Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45?
The main differences between Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45 lie in their design, features, and performance. The QuietComfort 45 has a more modern and sleek design, with a slightly smaller and lighter build compared to the QuietComfort 35. Additionally, the QuietComfort 45 has improved noise-cancellation technology and longer battery life.
The QuietComfort 45 also has a more advanced Bluetooth system, allowing for easier pairing and connectivity to devices. Furthermore, the QuietComfort 45 has a more comfortable and ergonomic design, with ear cushions that fit snugly around the ears. Overall, the QuietComfort 45 is a more advanced and refined version of the QuietComfort 35, with several key upgrades and improvements.
Is the Bose QuietComfort 35 still a good option?
Yes, the Bose QuietComfort 35 is still a great option for those looking for a high-quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones. While it may not have all the latest features and improvements of the QuietComfort 45, it still offers excellent noise-cancellation and sound quality. The QuietComfort 35 is also often available at a lower price point than the QuietComfort 45, making it a more affordable option for those on a budget.
Additionally, the QuietComfort 35 is still a reliable and durable pair of headphones, with a long-lasting battery life and comfortable design. It may not have all the bells and whistles of the QuietComfort 45, but it still offers excellent performance and value for its price.
Do the Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45 have the same sound quality?
The Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45 have similar sound quality, with clear and balanced audio reproduction. Both models use advanced noise-cancellation technology to block out ambient noise and provide an immersive listening experience. However, some users may notice a slight improvement in sound quality with the QuietComfort 45, particularly in the high-frequency range.
This is due to the QuietComfort 45’s more advanced noise-cancellation technology and improved driver design. However, the difference is relatively subtle, and both models offer excellent sound quality overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and budget.
How long do the batteries last in the Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45?
The Bose QuietComfort 35 has a battery life of up to 20 hours on a single charge, while the QuietComfort 45 has a battery life of up to 24 hours. This means that the QuietComfort 45 can last several hours longer than the QuietComfort 35, making it a better option for long trips or extended use.
It’s worth noting that both models have rapid charging capabilities, allowing for quick top-ups of battery life when needed. Additionally, both models can be used in wired mode when the battery is dead, ensuring that users can still listen to music or take calls even when the battery runs out.
Are the Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45 comfortable to wear?
Both the Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45 are designed to be comfortable to wear, with cushioned ear pads and adjustable headbands. However, some users may find the QuietComfort 45 to be slightly more comfortable due to its more ergonomic design and softer ear cushions.
The QuietComfort 45 also has a more adjustable headband, allowing for a more customizable fit. Additionally, the QuietComfort 45 is slightly lighter than the QuietComfort 35, which can make it more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
Can I use the Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45 for exercise or sports?
While the Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45 are designed primarily for everyday listening and travel, they can be used for exercise or sports if needed. However, they may not be the best option for high-intensity activities due to their larger size and weight compared to dedicated sports earbuds.
That being said, the QuietComfort 35 and 45 are both sweat and water-resistant, making them suitable for low-to-moderate intensity exercises such as jogging or yoga. It’s just important to be aware of their larger size and weight, and to take care when using them during physical activity.
Do the Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45 come with a carrying case?
Yes, both the Bose QuietComfort 35 and 45 come with a carrying case that allows users to store and transport their headphones when not in use. The carrying case is designed to protect the headphones from scratches and damage, and also makes them easier to pack in a bag or backpack.
The carrying case is a hardshell case that fits snugly around the headphones, with a zipper closure to keep them secure. It’s a convenient and practical accessory that adds to the overall value and convenience of the QuietComfort 35 and 45.