Bose QuietComfort® Earbuds II
Outstanding noise reduction…
08/12/2022 18:56
Excited to open the disappointingly small box, but the earbuds are wee so don't know why I expected more bells and whistles. I was thrilled that they fit perfectly first time, without fiddling with fittings. The 'bavoom!' sound is unique to your ear and is reassuring every time you west them. and connects easily once set up with the BOSE music app.
I've been using them heavily for over a week now, for music, commentary and work meetings - at home, in the office and traveling in car and train - so have a good idea of what's good, and what is more disappointing.
What's great? The sound quality is brilliant, immersive and the quality you would expect from BOSE. I have their BlueTooth speakers - and vouch for their deep base and quality through midtones to high levels. These don't disappoint either.
In 'Quiet Mode' - the noise canceling is exceptional. It truly knocks off most outside noise and sounds, except for the noisiest places. It's dangerous though. I had a soft toy launched at me for ignoring my wife. Completely unexpected - I nearly jumped out of my skin. However, given the chance you really get involved in the music or the commentary of the moment.
For less nervy moments, and not to appear rude at home and in public, the 'Aware Mode' is the safer option, allowing you to have conversations while still muting the general background chitter-chatter.
It's also relatively comfortable. I don't think they're the lightest or most comfortable buds I've worn, but they do the trick. The app is also spot on and allows you to easily amend bits and bobs, sounds and mode settings.
There have been frustrations. The biggest disappointment isn't the lack of wireless charging, I don't mind it not being there, it's the battery life. I'm lucky to get 6 hours out of them in Aware Mode. In Quiet Mode it varies, but 4 to 5 hours is the norm fully charged. I think this is poor. OK, you can get a quick boost but I'd want more. I've not had chance to try it on a flight yet, but it will be OK for short haul European flights - but transatlantic or beyond the Middle East and it will be frustrating.
Also, after a week of use, the left bud doesn't provide the same level of noise cancelling in noisy environments as the right one - which is really noticeable. The touch controls aren't very sensitive either, which is surprising.
So overall, stunning sound and noise cancellation let down by so-so battery life. Would I recommend? Yes, I use all the time - while the battery lasts.
cheekos
Oakham , Spojené království
Age: 55
Gender: Female