Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteiTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
The Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45) is an older-generation, around-ear Bluetooth headphone built around comfortable wear and active noise cancellation. Its case today depends on the price and condition of the unit you find: Bose lists the model as sold from 2022 to 2024, so don’t assume it remains routinely available new from Bose. The evidence below separates Bose’s specifications from one independent reviewer’s test findings; it is not based on a first-hand listening or wear test.
What the Bose QC45 offers
The QC45 connects over Bluetooth and provides active noise cancellation, with two standard listening modes: Quiet and Aware. Bose’s owner guide also explains how to create up to two custom noise-control modes in the Bose app. Quiet is intended to reduce surrounding sound; Aware mode lets more of it through so you can hear your surroundings while listening.
Bose lists Bluetooth 5.1 and a wireless range of up to 33 feet (10 meters). The headphones can also be used with the included 3.5 mm-to-2.5 mm audio cable. Bose specifies a rechargeable, non-replaceable lithium-ion battery, so the battery is not designed for user replacement.
Recommended Free Tools
Noise cancellation, comfort, and fit
In its review, RTINGS reports excellent noise isolation and comfort. Its comparison with the Sony WH-1000XM5 found the QC45 handled low-frequency rumble well, while the Sony performed better against some mid-range and treble sounds. Those are findings from RTINGS’ testing, not a guarantee of the same experience in every environment or for every listener.
#1 Best Overall
- Noise cancelling wireless headphones - The perfect balance of quiet, comfort, and sound. Bose uses tiny mics to measure, compare, and react to outside noise, cancelling it with opposite signals.
- High-fidelity audio - The TriPort acoustic architecture offers depth and fullness. Volume-optimized Active EQ maintains balanced performance at any volume, so bass stays consistent when turned down and the music remains clear when turned up.
- Quiet and Aware Modes - Choose Quiet Mode for full noise cancelling, or Aware Mode to bring the outside into the around ear headphones and hear your environment and your music at the same time.
- Personalize your audio. Adjustable EQ allows you to set the bass, mid-range, and treble levels to your personal preferences or select one of several preset options.
- Up to 24 hours battery life - Enjoy 24 hours of battery life from a single charge. A quick 15-minute charge offers 3 hours when you’re on the go, or plug in the included audio cable to listen for even longer in wired mode.
RTINGS also describes the QC45 as bulky and says it can fall off during more intense movement. That makes it a more plausible choice for travel, commuting, or stationary listening than for vigorous exercise. Fit and comfort are personal, so if possible, check the return terms before buying.
How long does the QC45 battery last?
The published numbers differ because they come from separate sources and contexts:
Rank #2
- Noise cancelling wireless headphones – The perfect balance of quiet, comfort, and sound. Bose uses tiny mics to measure, compare, and react to outside noise, cancelling it with opposite signals.
- High-fidelity audio – The TriPort acoustic architecture offers depth and fullness. Volume-optimized Active EQ maintains balanced performance at any volume, so bass stays consistent when turned down and the music remains clear when turned up.
- Quiet & Aware Modes – Choose Quiet Mode for full noise cancelling, or Aware Mode to bring the outside into the around ear headphones and hear your environment and your music at the same time.
- Over ear headphones – These comfortable wireless headphones are suitable for all-day wear. Crafted with plush synthetic leather and impact-resistant nylon, and designed with minimal clamping force, they’re as luxurious as they are durable.
- Up to 24 hours battery life – Enjoy 24 hours of battery life from a single charge.* A quick 15-minute charge offers 3 hours when you’re on the go, or plug in the included audio cable to listen for even longer in wired mode.
- 22 hours: Bose Support’s product specification.
- Up to 24 hours: Bose’s August 2021 launch-announcement claim.
- Over 21 hours: RTINGS’ reported continuous-playback test result.
These figures should not be treated as interchangeable: Bose’s launch figure is a manufacturer claim, while RTINGS’ result comes from its own test. Bose Support lists a 2.25-hour charge time. The 2021 launch announcement instead said a full charge took two hours and that 15 minutes of charging provided three hours of playback; that is a dated launch claim, not a current measured guarantee.
What comes in the box?
Bose lists a carry case, a 12-inch USB-C charging cable, and a 3.5 mm-to-2.5 mm audio cable alongside the headphones. Check the listing carefully for used or refurbished units: included accessories and their condition may differ from Bose’s stated box contents.
Rank #3
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Effortlessly combines noise cancellation technology with passive features so you can shut off the outside world, quiet distractions, and take music beyond the beat
- COMFORTABLE HEADPHONES: Plush over-ear cushions softly hug your ears, while a secure and comfortable padded band gently keeps your studio headphones in place for those extra-long listening sessions
- 2 LISTENING MODES: These wireless Bluetooth headphones feature Quiet and Aware Modes that let you toggle between full noise cancelling or full awareness of your surroundings for seamless sound control
- HIGH-FIDELITY AUDIO/EQ CONTROL: Supercharge your favorite tracks with high-fidelity audio and Adjustable EQ that puts you in control of the bass, mid-range, and treble for unmatched bold sound
- ALL DAY BATTERY LIFE: Bose QuietComfort wireless headphones provide up to 24 hours of battery on a single charge, plus a 15-minute charge via USB-C gives you up to 2.5 hours of additional play time
Should you buy the QC45 now?
The QC45 is worth considering if comfortable around-ear wear and strong noise isolation matter most, and you find a unit at a price that reflects its age and condition. It is a less convincing choice if you need a current model with routine manufacturer availability, a replaceable battery, or a secure fit for intense movement.
Bose announced the QC45 on August 31, 2021, with availability beginning September 23, 2021, and a U.S. launch price of $329.95. That price is historical, not a guide to today’s value. Bose’s support page records sales from 2022 through 2024; current inventory, prices, and seller-specific warranty terms are not established here.
Rank #4
- A COOL NEW HUE: Listening feels anything but fleeting when you tune in with QuietComfort Headphones in Twilight Blue
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Effortlessly combines noise cancellation technology with passive features so you can shut off the outside world, quiet distractions, and take music beyond the beat
- COMFORTABLE HEADPHONES: Plush over-ear cushions softly hug your ears, while a secure and comfortable padded band gently keeps your studio headphones in place for those extra-long listening sessions
- 2 LISTENING MODES: These wireless Bluetooth headphones feature Quiet and Aware Modes that let you toggle between full noise cancelling or full awareness of your surroundings for seamless sound control
- HIGH-FIDELITY AUDIO/EQ CONTROL: Supercharge your favorite tracks with high-fidelity audio and Adjustable EQ that puts you in control of the bass, mid-range, and treble for unmatched bold sound
Before ordering, verify whether the exact listing is new, refurbished, or used; who is selling it; what accessories are included; the return window; and what warranty, if any, applies to that seller and item. A low price is not a good deal if the condition, battery performance, or return terms are unclear.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallQuick Recap
QC45 specifications at a glance
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fit | Around-ear |
| Wireless connection | Bluetooth 5.1; Bose lists range up to 33 feet (10 meters) |
| Listening modes | Quiet and Aware; up to two custom modes in the Bose app |
| Battery | Rechargeable, non-replaceable lithium-ion |
| Battery life | 22 hours per Bose Support; up to 24 hours in Bose’s 2021 launch claim; over 21 hours in RTINGS’ continuous-playback test |
| Charge time | 2.25 hours per Bose Support; two hours in Bose’s 2021 launch announcement |
| In the box | Carry case, 12-inch USB-C cable, 3.5 mm-to-2.5 mm audio cable, and headphones |
| Bose sales period | 2022–2024, according to Bose Support |
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.
