The QuietComfort Bose 45 (QC 45) Headphones serve as a top-tier branding option for those seeking comfort, simplicity, and powerful noise cancellation. It’s a favorite among travelers, commuters, and audiophiles.
Specs That Matter
| Feature | Specification |
| Release Date | September 23, 2021 |
| Weight | ~240 g (8.5 oz) |
| Battery Life (ANC) | ~24 hr–24 hr 49 min |
| Quick Charge | 15 min → ~3 hr playback |
| Bluetooth | 5.1, supports multipoint pairing |
| ANC Modes | Quiet & Aware (two-stage) |
| Charging Port | USB‑C (up from micro‑USB on QC 35 II) |
| EQ Support | In-app graphic EQ (added Feb 2022) |
| Ear Cup Build | Plush synthetic leather + nylon, low clamping force |
| Price in 2025 | Typically $179–$249 (MSRP $329) |
Design & Comfort (Bose QC 45)
Bose engineered the QC 45 with long-wear in mind. At ~240 g, they’re featherlight—ideal for long-haul travel or marathon listening sessions. Plush earcups, minimal headband clamp force, and foldable hinges enhance carryability.
Noise Cancelation & Audio Clarity
Bose’s bread-and-butter remains top-tier:
- ANC Performance: QC 45 confidently blocks mid-high frequencies (e.g., airplane engines are reduced to ~⅛ volume), edging out QC 35 II, and rivals Sony and Apple models.
- Sound Quality: Crowd-pleasing, energetic signature. However, users noted a slight high-frequency emphasis can be harsh on cymbal-heavy tracks. Applying EQ adjustments (−5dB bass, −10dB treble) via app improves balance.
- Call Quality: Four external microphones and improved voice algorithms translate to clear conversations with minimal background interference.
Battery & Usage
Real-world battery testing shows ANC-enabled playback lasting 24 hr 49 min, slightly beating Bose’s 24-hour claim. Quick charging—15 min yields ~3 hr playback—is ideal for travel.
What’s New Over QC 35 II
The QC 45 features:
- USB‑C charging,
- Bluetooth 5.1 (vs. prior Bluetooth 4.2),
- Additional external mic for better call clarity,
- Maintained Bose’s comfort and ANC DNA
While QC 35 II still performs well, the QC 45 offers practical upgrades and modern connectivity.
Competing Models & Value
By 2025, the QC 45 competes against newer models:
- Bose QC Ultra (2023): ANC adjustment levels, spatial audio, ~28 hr battery.
- Sony WH‑1000XM5: More nuanced sound, adaptive ANC, deeper app customization.
- Sennheiser Momentum 4: Longer battery (~60 hr), fully featured EQ, aptX Adaptive support.
Considerations (The Trade-Offs)
- ANC Customization: Only two modes compared to Sony’s 10‑level control or Bose Ultra’s flexibility.
- EQ Interface: Limited to graphic EQ presets—no parametric or fine-tuning like competitors.
- Sound Signature: Energetic but less refined—some detail and subtle harmonic textural nuance are missing.
- Build Longevity: Soft materials may wear sooner than sturdier models; earcup cushions may need replacing after a year with heavy.
Who Should Buy (In 2025- Bose QC 45)
You’ll love the QC 45 if you:
- Prioritize effortless ANC and lightweight comfort for travel, office, or study.
- Want simple, reliable features—plug‑and‑play user experience with minimal fuss.
- Ultimate corporate gift.
You might want to skip them if you:
- Crave deep ANC customization or studio-level EQ control,
- Listen critically for musical micro-details,
- Prefer longer battery life or rugged materials.
Final Verdict
The Bose QuietComfort 45 has the perfect blend of comfort, class-leading noise cancellation, and user-friendly features make it a smart buy—especially at current discounted prices. For those seeking maximum customization or premium sound nuance, newer models like the QuietComfort Ultra or Sony WH‑1000XM5 may be more appealing. But for reliable, plug-and-go excellence, the QC 45 remains a standout.