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The Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) are a strong choice if you want lightweight over-ear headphones with excellent noise cancellation and easy-to-use physical controls. In Expert Reviews’ September 2026 test, they came close to the more expensive QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) at silencing everyday noise. Their main compromises are battery life that trails some rivals, no wear detection, and a price that can make the Ultra worth comparing.
What are the Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)?
They are Bose’s standard noise-cancelling over-ear headphones, positioned below the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen). RTINGS describes them as replacing the 2023 Bose QuietComfort Headphones Wireless. The second-generation model adds Immersive and Cinema listening modes and supports lossless audio over USB-C; it also has multipoint Bluetooth connections, app-based equalizer adjustments and physical button controls, according to Expert Reviews.
The wired connection is USB-C, replacing the previous model’s headphone jack. Expert Reviews says the box includes a hard-shell carrying case, a USB-C-to-USB-C cable and a USB-C-to-3.5 mm cable. Bose lists Quiet and Aware noise-control modes and TrueSpatial technology on its official product page.
How comfortable are they?
Comfort is one of the clearest reasons to choose this model. Expert Reviews’ Simon Cocks reported that the roughly 230 g headphones felt barely noticeable during three weeks of commuting, home-working, coffee-shop and outdoor use. He found the padding soft and the clamping force moderate enough for long listening sessions.
#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 trade-off is feel: Cocks described the headphones as more plasticky than the Ultra model. Their low weight and simple button controls may matter more to listeners who value comfort and straightforward operation over a more premium finish.
How effective is the noise cancellation?
ANC is the standout performance feature in Expert Reviews’ testing. Cocks said the headphones quietened London Underground noise, coffee-shop chatter, keyboard clacks, wind on walks and construction sounds, and performed close to the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen). Those are the reviewer’s results in his test conditions, not a guarantee that every sound or environment will be silenced.
Bose provides Quiet and Aware modes, so you can choose noise reduction or let more of your surroundings through. The reviewer also found the headphones useful in noisy commuting and work settings, where effective ANC can make it easier to focus or listen at a comfortable volume.
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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.
What does the sound and connectivity offer?
Expert Reviews reports that the Bose app provides basic EQ adjustments, while Immersive and Cinema modes offer additional listening options. The headphones also support multipoint, which lets them connect to more than one device. For wired listening, the second-generation model uses USB-C and supports lossless audio over that connection.
For Bluetooth playback, Expert Reviews says the headphones use AAC and SBC and do not support high-resolution Bluetooth codecs. It also identifies the absence of Auracast and LE Audio. If wireless codec support or future Bluetooth features are priorities, the Ultra model is the closer Bose alternative to investigate.
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.
How long does the battery last?
Bose claims up to 24 hours of battery life, or up to 18 hours with Immersive Audio enabled. Bose’s stated test conditions use ANC on and playback at 75 dBSPL; actual results vary with settings and use. Expert Reviews’ shorter playback check was broadly consistent with the 24-hour claim, but the reviewer noted that the figure trails some competing headphones.
What are the main drawbacks?
- Battery life is not class-leading. Bose’s maximum claim is shorter than some competitors’ stated runtimes, and Immersive Audio reduces the claimed maximum to 18 hours.
- No wear detection. The headphones do not automatically pause playback when you take them off, according to Expert Reviews.
- Limited Bluetooth codec and feature support. Expert Reviews lists AAC and SBC, with no high-resolution Bluetooth codecs, Auracast or LE Audio.
- Microphone performance can suffer in noisy places. RTINGS reports that voice clarity drops in loud settings.
- Not the right choice for vigorous exercise. RTINGS says they are not ideal for vigorous workouts. SoundGuys notes there is no IP rating, so they should not be treated as weatherproof.
How much do they cost, and are they good value?
Prices depend on market and date. Expert Reviews listed the QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) at £300 in the UK when its review was published on September 21, 2026, compared with £350 for the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen). Bose’s US product page listed the standard model at $359 when accessed on October 5, 2026. These are separate market snapshots, not a guaranteed current price or a direct currency comparison.
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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.
At a price close to the Ultra, the extra features and longer battery life reported for the premium model make it worth comparing. Check your local listings before deciding: the value gap can change as prices move.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you buy the Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)?
Buy them if comfort and ANC matter most
Choose these if you want light headphones for commutes, travel or long work sessions, and prefer tactile buttons to touch controls. Expert Reviews found their noise cancellation close to the Ultra’s while praising the standard model’s comfort.
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.
Compare the Ultra if you want more features
The QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) cost more in Expert Reviews’ UK comparison, but the publication and RTINGS describe them as offering additional features, high-resolution codec support, stronger build or sound refinement and longer battery life. The standard model’s counterpoints are its lower weight and straightforward controls.
Consider a value-focused rival if battery life is the priority
RTINGS describes the JBL Live 780NC as a lower-priced option with a 60-hour battery claim and slightly weaker ANC, while finding Bose more comfortable. Verify current pricing and availability before treating it as a cheaper purchase. Expert Reviews also names Sony ULT Wear, Anker Soundcore Space 2 and first-generation Bose QuietComfort headphones as lower-cost alternatives; their prices and availability can vary.
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The Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) get the fundamentals right: they are light and comfortable, their physical controls are easy to use, and Expert Reviews found their ANC exceptionally effective. They are less compelling if you need long battery life, wear detection or advanced Bluetooth features. Check the local price against the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) before buying; if the gap is small, the Ultra’s additional features may justify paying more.
Sources: Expert Reviews (September 21, 2026); Bose product page (accessed October 5, 2026); RTINGS (September 2026); SoundGuys (August 22, 2026); Tom’s Guide (September 4, 2026).
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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.
