Bose QuietComfort 35 II vs Bose QuietComfort 45
The Verdict
Both headphones deliver Bose's signature noise cancellation with premium build quality, but the QuietComfort 45 edges ahead with meaningful upgrades. Battery life improves from 20 to 24 hours on wireless mode, while USB-C charging adds modern convenience over Micro-USB. Bluetooth 5.1 replaces 4.2, enabling multipoint connection for seamless device switching, a feature absent in the 35 II. Sound signature remains excellent on both, though the 45's adjustable EQ via the Bose Music app provides better customization than the 35 II's fixed volume-optimized EQ. The 45's Aware mode offers useful transparency when you need environmental awareness. At $30 more, the QC45 represents a solid generational improvement for those prioritizing connectivity flexibility and refined usability. Existing QC35 II owners see incremental gains, but new buyers should choose the 45.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Bose QuietComfort 35 II if…
- →Legendary Bose noise cancellation that set the industry standard
- →Extremely comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- →20-hour battery life is solid for travel and commuting
Buy the Bose QuietComfort 45 if…
- →Legendary Bose ANC is among the best in the industry
- →Incredibly comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- →Lightweight at 240 g — easy to forget you're wearing them
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Pros
- Legendary Bose noise cancellation that set the industry standard
- Extremely comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- 20-hour battery life is solid for travel and commuting
- Dedicated Google Assistant button for quick voice commands
- Foldable design and included hard case for portability
Cons
- Bluetooth 4.2 lacks modern codecs like aptX and LDAC
- Micro-USB charging port is outdated — not USB-C
- Sound quality is beaten by newer XM4 and XM5 models
- No multipoint Bluetooth for connecting two devices simultaneously
- Plastic build shows wear over time
Bose QuietComfort 45
Pros
- Legendary Bose ANC is among the best in the industry
- Incredibly comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- Lightweight at 240 g — easy to forget you're wearing them
- 24-hour battery handles long trips without charging
- Reliable Bose sound signature with warm, balanced audio
Cons
- No LDAC or aptX — limited to SBC/AAC codecs
- No water resistance for outdoor or gym use
- Cannot adjust ANC levels — only full ANC or Aware mode
- Aware mode sounds less natural than Sony's ambient mode
Full Specifications
| Spec | Bose QuietComfort 35 II | Bose QuietComfort 45 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 235 g | 240 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 20 hrs (wireless with ANC), 40 hrs (wired with ANC) | 24 hrs |
| Charging | Micro-USB, 2.25 hrs for full charge, 15 min = 2.5 hrs playback | USB-C, 15 min = 3 hrs playback |
| Drivers | 40mm Bose custom drivers | Bose proprietary driver |
| Features | Three levels of ANC (High, Low, Off), Google Assistant built-in (dedicated button), Bose AR (augmented reality) compatible, Volume-optimized EQ, Foldable design with carry case | Active Noise Cancellation, Aware mode (transparency), Bose SimpleSync, Adjustable EQ via Bose Music app, Multipoint connection |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC |
| Bluetooth | 4.2 with NFC pairing | 5.1 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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