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Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)

Both are the same Bose QuietComfort over-ear platform, so the choice comes down to generation and finish rather than capability. The QuietComfort Wireless is the current model with Bluetooth 5.1, custom noise-cancellation modes, Wind Block, adjustable EQ and Spotify Tap. The QC Headphone 2nd Gen is the earlier QuietComfort generation with the same 24-hour battery and the same class-leading comfort, but fewer software features. Buy the current QuietComfort unless the older generation's fit or color suits you better. Owners on both consistently praise comfort and noise cancellation; the common complaints are the bulky case and no water resistance.

  • Choose the Bose QuietComfort Wireless if you want the newest software features, custom noise modes and adjustable EQ.
  • Choose the Bose QC Headphone 2nd Gen if you want the proven QuietComfort fit and sound and do not need the newer app features.

Prices

  • Bose QuietComfort Headphones: $130.00 at eBay (last seen Nov 8)
  • Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen): $260.00 at Amazon (last seen Nov 12)
  • Difference: the Bose QuietComfort Headphones is $130.00 cheaper than the Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) at the latest prices (Nov 8 and Nov 12)
Bose
Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones

Bose QuietComfort Headphones

Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones

4.6(486 ratings)
$130.00at eBayChecked Nov 8
See all prices and details
Visit eBay

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Pros
  • Current-generation QuietComfort with the full software feature set
  • Custom noise-cancellation modes and Wind Block for outdoor use
  • Adjustable EQ and Spotify Tap in the Bose Music app
  • Bluetooth 5.1 and multi-device use
  • Up to 24 hours of battery with a 2.5-hour recharge
Cons
  • No water or sweat resistance rating
  • Bulky for travel and storage
  • No retractable microphone
  • Over-ear design gets warm in long sessions
Bose
Bose QC Headphone 2nd Gen

Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)

Bose QC Headphone 2nd Gen

4(2 ratings)
$260.00at AmazonChecked Nov 12
See all prices and details
Visit Amazon

Store links may earn us a commission. As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

Pros
  • Same 24-hour battery life as the current model
  • Legendary QuietComfort comfort and noise cancellation
  • Quiet and Aware modes for quick switching
  • Wired listening with an optional cable
  • Distinctive hazelnut taupe finish
Cons
  • Older generation with fewer app features
  • No custom noise modes or Wind Block listed
  • No water-resistance rating
  • Bluetooth version not specified

What separates them

Bose QuietComfort HeadphonesBose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)
GenerationCurrent QuietComfort modelSecond-generation QuietComfort
BluetoothBluetooth 5.1Bluetooth, version not specified
Noise cancellation controlQuiet and Aware modes plus custom modes and Wind BlockActive and passive noise cancellation, Quiet and Aware toggle
EQ and app featuresAdjustable EQ and Spotify Tap through the Bose Music appBose Music app for setup and settings
Battery lifeUp to 24 hours, 2.5-hour rechargeUp to 24 hours
Wired option3 ft cable and USB port includedOptional audio cable for wired listening
Water resistanceNo official IP ratingNo water-resistance rating stated
Color optionsSandstoneHazelnut Taupe, brown and beige tones

Price history

$359.00$149.00
Oct 28Nov 13
  • Bose QuietComfort Headphones: lowest $149.00 on Nov 12 at Walmart; $254.10 on Nov 13.
  • Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen): lowest $199.00 on Nov 8 at Best Buy; $260.00 on Nov 13.

Prices at every store

Bose QuietComfort Headphones

  • WalmartNew

    In stockSold by GRG WHOLESALE LLC

    $149.00Free shippingChecked Nov 11
    Visit Walmart
  • eBayNew

    Availability unknownSold by mjothree84 (100% positive, 272 ratings)Returns: Set by the eBay seller; the eBay Money Back Guarantee covers an item that doesn't arrive or isn't as described.

    $130.00+ $5.99 shippingChecked Nov 8
    Visit eBay
  • AmazonNew

    Availability unknown

    As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

    $254.10Free shippingChecked Nov 13
    Visit Amazon
  • JCPenneyNew

    Availability unknown

    $349.00Free shippingChecked Nov 13
    Visit JCPenney

Also available at

  • eBayCheck price at eBay

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All 21 stores and price history →

Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)

  • Best BuyNew

    In stock

    $359.00Free shippingChecked 13 h ago
    Visit Best Buy
  • Abt ElectronicsNew

    In stock

    $359.00Free shippingChecked 13 h ago
    Visit Abt Electronics
  • NeweggNew

    In stock

    $359.00Free shippingChecked 13 h ago
    Visit Newegg
  • AmazonNew

    Availability unknown

    As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

    $260.00Free shippingChecked Nov 12
    Visit Amazon

Also available at

  • WalmartCheck price at Walmart

Store links may earn us a commission. Some prices via Klarna.

All 7 stores and price history →

Specs compared

SpecBose QuietComfort HeadphonesBose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)
ColorSandstoneBrown, Beige
WirelessYesYes
MicrophoneYesYes
BluetoothYesYes
Battery Time (in use) (h)24.024.0
Noise CancellingActive Noise Cancelling, Passive Noise Cancelli…Passive Noise Cancelling, Active Noise Cancelli…
Wireless TechnologyBluetoothBluetooth
Type of HeadphoneOver-EarOver-Ear
Headphone Cup TypeOver-ear—
Body Part UseHead, Ear—
Noise Cancellation TypeActive—
Max Battery Life24 hours—
Show all 40 specsShow fewer specs
SpecBose QuietComfort HeadphonesBose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)
Recharge Time2.5 hours—
Rechargeable BatteryYes—
Standby Time1 day—
Earpad MaterialProtein Leather—
Water ProtectionNo official IP rating for water or sweat resist…—
WaterproofNo—
Water ResistantNo—
Microphone HighlightsIn-line mic, Built-in Microphone—
Noise Cancelling MicrophoneYes—

What reviewers say

Bose QuietComfort Headphones

  • 4.6 / 5486 ratings

Owners generally rate the QuietComfort highly for comfort and noise cancelling on long flights and commutes. Complaints center on the plastic build, the large case and the lack of water resistance.

What people mention
  • Noise cancellingPraisedOwners say it cuts engine drone and office chatter well, though it is a step behind the Ultra line.
  • ComfortPraisedThe over-ear fit and protein leather pads are called comfortable for long flights and full workdays.
  • BatteryPraisedUsers report close to the rated 24 hours and say a single charge covers a long trip.
  • BuildMixedSome find the plastic frame light and durable; others say it feels less premium than the price suggests.

Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)

Owners and reviewers consistently rate the QuietComfort line highly for comfort and noise cancelling, and this generation keeps that reputation. Most criticism centers on sound that favors warmth over accuracy and ANC that is good but no longer class-leading.

What people mention
  • ComfortPraisedOwners say the soft cushions and light clamp make them easy to wear for a full flight or workday.
  • Noise cancellingMixedReviewers find engine and traffic rumble well silenced but say voices and higher sounds get through more than on the best rivals.
  • SoundMixedListeners describe a warm, bass-forward tuning that suits pop and podcasts but lacks detail for critical listening.
  • ControlsPraisedPhysical buttons are called easier and more reliable than touch panels, especially with gloves or in the dark.

Questions and answers

Which is better for flying?
Both cancel engine noise well and run up to 24 hours. The current QuietComfort adds custom modes and Wind Block, which help on the tarmac and in breezy spots.
Which has better noise cancellation?
They share the same QuietComfort noise-cancellation design. The current model gives you more control over it through custom modes and the app.
Which lasts longer?
Battery life is the same at up to 24 hours. The current model lists a 2.5-hour recharge time; the older generation does not state one.
Is the newer QuietComfort worth stepping up to?
Yes if you want Bluetooth 5.1, adjustable EQ, Spotify Tap and custom noise modes. If you only need comfort and cancellation, the older generation covers it.
Can either be used wired?
Yes. The current model includes a 3 ft cable and USB port; the older generation takes an optional audio cable for listening without Bluetooth.
Are either water resistant?
No. Neither carries an official water or sweat-resistance rating, so keep them out of rain and heavy workouts.

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Integrated Microphone
Yes
—
Microphone Mount TypeIn-line mic, Built-In—
Retractable MicrophoneNo—
Microphone Quantity3 (per headset)—
Connectivity TechnologyWireless, Bluetooth—
Wireless TypeBluetooth—
Bluetooth Version5.1—
Compatible DevicesiPhone, Android devices, Tablets, Bose speakers…—
Ports And InterfacesUSB—
Cable Length3 ft—
Noise CancelingYes—
Surround SoundYes—
With MicrophoneYes—
StyleOn-ear—
Over-EarYes—
Height7.68″ tall—
Driver Size40 mm driver—
Impedance32 ohms—
USB TypeUSB-C—