Bose QuietComfort 45 Review: Is It Still Worth Buying?

The din of an open-plan office, the racket of public transport, the drone of a long-haul flight… Creating your own bubble to work or simply unwind has become a daily quest. In this context, a good pair of wireless noise-cancelling headphones is no longer a gadget, but an essential tool for many professionals, travellers, and music lovers.

Among the benchmark models, the Bose QuietComfort 45 consistently comes up. So, is it still a relevant choice in 2026? To help you decide, we've put this iconic model to the test. Our goal: to give you a clear verdict on its features, its strengths, and determine who it's truly for.

How to Choose the Right Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Before we dive into a specific model, here's a quick reminder of the essential criteria for making the right choice.

The Effectiveness of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology uses microphones to capture ambient sounds and generate an opposing sound wave to cancel them out. Its effectiveness varies greatly from one model to another. For train or plane travel, high-performance ANC is simply indispensable. Some models go further with adjustable modes, like "Transparency" (or "Aware") mode, which is ideal for staying tuned in to your surroundings without taking off the headphones.

Comfort and Battery Life: Non-Negotiable Criteria

Over-ear Bluetooth headphones completely enclose the ears. This design not only provides excellent passive isolation but is also often the most comfortable for long-term wear. Pay close attention to the cushion materials and the weight of the headphones: your comfort over several hours depends on it. At the same time, headphones with long battery life are crucial to avoid running out of power, especially if you're often on the move. Today, an endurance of 20 hours or more is the standard in this segment.

Connectivity and Game-Changing Features

Most modern headphones use Bluetooth. Multipoint connection, which allows you to link the headphones to multiple devices at once (your computer and your smartphone, for example), is a real game-changer for daily use, letting you switch between devices effortlessly. Finally, a dedicated mobile app often enhances the experience by providing access to an equaliser or finer adjustments for noise cancellation.

The Bose QuietComfort 45 Under Review

The Bose QC45 follows in the footsteps of the QuietComfort line, renowned for its perfect balance of silence, comfort, and sound quality. Let's analyse its features.

Bose QuietComfort Wireless Bluetooth Noise-Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones Black

Why It Stands Out

The Bose QuietComfort 45 builds on the two pillars that made the range famous: first-class noise cancellation and comfort designed for long listening sessions. Its secret? A network of miniature microphones that constantly analyses ambient noise to neutralise it. It offers two main modes: Quiet mode for total immersion, and Aware mode to stay mindful of your surroundings without having to remove the headphones.

On the sound front, the TriPort acoustic architecture and volume-optimised Active EQ ensure a rich and balanced output, whether you're listening at low or high volume. The bass is deep without being overpowering, and vocals remain perfectly clear, making it a very versatile set of headphones, equally at home with music, podcasts, or calls.

Its Strong Points

• Benchmark noise cancellation: The Quiet and Aware modes offer highly appreciated versatility for daily use.
• Supreme comfort for long listening hours: With its synthetic leather cushions and reinforced nylon design, it exerts minimal pressure. The result: you can wear it for hours without any discomfort.
• Rock-solid battery life: Up to 24 hours of listening on a single charge. And for those in a hurry, a 15-minute quick charge provides 3 hours of battery life.
• The versatility of a wired connection: The included audio cable allows you to use it even when the battery is dead. A real plus on a plane, for example.

Who Is It For?

These headphones are the ideal companion for professionals in open-plan offices, frequent travellers, and, more generally, anyone looking to create a bubble of silence. Their comfort and endurance make them a trusted ally for long workdays or transatlantic flights. If your number one criteria are uncompromising noise cancellation and impeccable comfort for intensive use, then the black Bose QuietComfort 45 is a choice to consider very seriously.

Other Options to Consider

If the over-ear format isn't for you, or if you have other priorities, here are two excellent in-ear alternatives.

Baseus EP10 Pro Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, -50 dB Noise Reduction

• Their strengths: They stand out for their compatibility with the LDAC codec (for high-resolution wireless audio) and a marathon battery life of up to 55 hours with the case.
• For whom?: For those looking for discreet yet technically advanced earbuds with extra-long battery life for intensive use on the go.

Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) True Wireless Stereo (TWS) Earbuds

• Their strengths: Their power, of course, is their perfect and seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem. The connection is magical, and switching between devices is effortless.
• For whom?: A must-have for iPhone, iPad, or Mac users who prioritise simplicity, portability, and a seamless software experience.

Can't Find What You're Looking For?

The audio market is vast, and every user is unique. If these models don't tick all your boxes, many other formats and features are waiting for you.

Discover our full range of wireless earbuds

Frequently Asked Questions about the Bose QuietComfort 45

1. What is the difference between the Bose QuietComfort 45 and newer models?

The Bose QC45 is a proven performer that focuses on the fundamentals: ultra-effective noise cancellation and time-tested comfort. Newer models sometimes add features like spatial audio or more detailed customisation options via the app. However, in 2026, the QC45 remains a very relevant choice for anyone who primarily seeks efficiency and reliability in these two core areas.

2. Are the Bose QC45 headphones suitable for phone calls?

Yes, absolutely. The headphones integrate a microphone array that isolates your voice from ambient noise very well during calls. This makes them perfectly suited for video conferences or personal calls, even in a busy office or on a noisy street.

3. Can you use the Bose QuietComfort 45 with a cable?

Yes, you can. The headphones come with an audio cable (2.5mm to 3.5mm). This allows you to connect them to non-Bluetooth sources (like in-flight entertainment systems) or to continue using them in passive mode if the battery is dead. It's a detail that makes all the difference for frequent travellers.