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The Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) add TrueSpatial immersive audio, wired USB-C audio, and an ANR Off noise-control option to the standard QuietComfort line. Bose announced them at $359 in the US. Those changes look meaningful on paper, but comfort, sound, noise cancellation, and call clarity still need independent testing before anyone can call this a fully proven upgrade.
What changed in the QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)?
Bose announced the headphones on August 6, 2026, with preorders starting August 8 and shipping starting August 13. Compared with the previous standard QuietComfort Headphones, the headline additions are immersive audio modes and USB-C audio. Bose also describes revised styling, updated Aware Mode behavior, and clearer calls.
| Feature | QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) | Previous QuietComfort Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Bose Immersive Audio | Three TrueSpatial modes: Still, Motion, and Cinema, according to Bose’s launch announcement. | Not available, according to Bose’s product comparison. |
| Wired USB-C audio | Supported; Bose specifies lossless playback up to 24-bit/48 kHz. | Not available, according to Bose’s product comparison. |
| Battery life | Up to 24 hours, or up to 18 hours with Immersive Audio enabled; Bose’s figures depend on settings and use. | Up to 24 hours, according to Bose’s product comparison. |
| Noise-control options | QuietControl with an updated ActiveSense behavior in Aware Mode; Bose support also lists ANR Off as a new mode. | ANR Off is not listed as an option in Bose’s comparison. |
These are manufacturer specifications and descriptions, not independent measurements. Bose’s launch announcement and support comparison establish what changed; they do not establish how well the changes work in everyday use.
What do the TrueSpatial modes do?
Bose describes three modes intended to change how immersive audio is presented. Their practical value will depend on the listener and content, and has not been independently assessed here.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
- Still: Bose says the audio position stays fixed as you turn your head.
- Motion: The audio follows head movement, according to Bose.
- Cinema: Bose says this mode widens the soundstage while keeping dialogue centered, with video and podcasts among its intended uses.
Does the 2nd Gen support USB-C audio?
Yes. Bose specifies wired USB-C playback up to 24-bit/48 kHz and says the USB-C connection can also carry voice input for calls and videoconferencing. This is a manufacturer capability claim, not an independent verification of audio quality, latency, or microphone performance.
Bose says a USB-C-to-3.5 mm cable is included for analog sources such as in-flight entertainment. Check the contents of the exact listing before buying, since bundle details can vary.
Rank #2
- 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
How long does the battery last?
Bose rates the headphones for up to 24 hours of listening, falling to up to 18 hours with Immersive Audio enabled. Bose says its battery tests used ANC on and audio playback at 75 dBSPL; actual life varies with settings and use.
Bose also claims that a 15-minute charge provides up to 2.5 hours of playback. That figure comes from Bose’s quick-charge test, starting with a depleted battery and playback at 75 dBSPL, so it should not be treated as a guaranteed result in every situation.
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
Can they connect to two devices at once?
Yes. Bluetooth Core 5.4 multipoint allows two active device connections. Bose support clarifies that the headphones can store up to eight devices, remain connected to two at once, and play audio from only one device at a time. The second connection is useful for switching between, for example, a computer and a phone; it does not mean both sources can play simultaneously.
What do the noise-control and design changes mean?
Bose calls the system QuietControl and says ActiveSense has been updated to reduce unwanted sound in Aware Mode. Bose support identifies ANR Off as an added option compared with the previous standard QuietComfort Headphones. Those descriptions establish the available modes, not how effectively they handle steady low-frequency noise or sudden sounds.
Rank #4
- LEGENDARY NOISE CANCELLATION: Effortlessly combines noise cancelling headphones technology with passive features so you can shut off the outside world, quiet distractions, and take music beyond the beat
- PREMIUM COMFORT: Plush earcup cushions softly hug your ears, while a secure and comfortable padded band gently keeps your over ear 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 gives you up to 2.5 hours of additional play time
Bose describes a refreshed design with pill-shaped earcups, a wider sliding headband, and physical buttons. Its product page also claims clearer calls than before. Without independent fit, microphone, and noise-cancellation tests, those claims are not a basis for judging comfort, call quality, or real-world ANC performance.
How does the standard model compare with the Ultra?
Bose positions the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) above the standard QuietComfort line. The evidence available here supports the distinction in Bose’s lineup, but not a performance verdict between them. If choosing between models, compare current prices and the particular features you need rather than assuming the higher-tier model is automatically a better value for every listener.
Best Value
- 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 earcup cushions softly hug your ears, while a secure and comfortable padded band gently keeps your over ear 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 gives you up to 2.5 hours of additional play time
What are the price and case differences?
Bose announced a US launch price of $359, and its US product listing also displayed $359 when checked. Price, availability, and colors can change, so confirm the current listing. Bose says the QuietComfort SC/Club version has a soft case instead of a hard case; the headphones themselves are identical. Check the specific listing for the case and other included accessories.
Bose’s direct product page described a 30-day return policy and warranty options when checked, but those terms may change. Confirm the terms that apply to your region and order before purchase.
Is the upgrade worth choosing?
The clearest reasons to consider the 2nd Gen are USB-C audio and TrueSpatial modes—features Bose says the prior standard QuietComfort model lacks. The updated Aware Mode behavior and ANR Off option may also matter to people who want more control over noise passthrough. The evidence here does not establish whether those changes justify the price for a particular listener, because there are no independent measurements of sound, comfort, calls, or noise reduction.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →At Bose’s announced $359 US launch price, buyers should weigh those additions against their own need for wired USB-C listening and immersive modes, and compare the current price of the previous standard model and the Ultra. If you mainly want familiar QuietComfort features and do not need the new modes or USB-C audio, the generation change alone is not proof that replacing an existing pair is worthwhile.
Quick Recap
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.
