Bose today announced its latest addition to its beloved over-ear headphones after a series of leaks. According to Bose metrics, the QuietComfort 45 replaces the 35 II and offers improved noise cancellation and a 24 hour battery life. These air travel staples cost $330, which is $20 less than the QC35's initial asking price.
These headphones are similar to previous generations. However, the new models have been redesigned to be more comfortable, lighter, and compact. There are two main modes for the headphones: Aware and Quiet. The first uses Boses' newer, one-size-fits all ANC technology to cancel ambient noise. Let's be aware, while we sound off with transparency mode.
Bose retains the physical buttons. While some users have made the switch to touch panels entirely, four of the left ear cups can be used to control volume, power, pairing, and the one on the right for switching between noise cancelling modes. The microphone has been upgraded to improve voice quality and allow for conversation using the built-in microphone.
The battery can play 24 hours of music and is recharged via USB C. If you are short on time, you can get three hours with just 15 minutes.
Since 2000 when Bose released the first QuietComfort generation, the headphone market has changed dramatically. The QC 35 was the first wireless model to go fully wireless in 2016. The category has become more crowded with some great entries from Apple and Sony, but Bose is still the most well-known name in over-ear headphones, especially for frequent travelers.
The company's simple approach to simplicity is maintained by the QC 45. They will be on sale September 23. Perhaps they'll all be flying again by then.
