Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II Review: ANC Strength, Mixed Verdict
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II have been called “the world’s best noise-cancelling earbuds” by the company—and remarkably, a large chunk of user feedback across Reddit, Trustpilot, and expert reviews suggests that claim holds weight. But beneath the headline feature lies a more complicated reality where flawless ANC collides with mixed connectivity, only-average battery life, and a lack of hi-res codec support. The overall verdict based on combined user sentiment and lab-backed tests: 8.6/10 for ANC lovers, but conditional for everyday convenience.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Top-tier ANC performance – arguably best in market | Frequent Bluetooth/app connectivity issues reported |
| Rich, balanced sound with customizable EQ | Limited codec support (SBC, AAC only) |
| Comfortable fit for most, with flexible tips/stability bands | Comfort issues after long wear for some users |
| Compact redesign vs. previous generation | No wireless charging |
| Improved call clarity, strong mic performance | Battery life capped at ~6 hours |
| IPX4 water resistance suitable for workouts | No Bluetooth multipoint |
Claims vs Reality
Claim: “World’s best noise cancellation”
From noisy subway commutes to open-plan offices, ANC performance is the one feature most owners don’t question. Trustpilot’s Nextpit review described it as “locking out all external sound sources… as if behind heavy steel doors.” Reddit user reports echo this—one traveler said: “They still have measurably the best ANC of any earbuds and beat out most over-ear headphones.”
However, some Android users observed a faint “white noise” when ANC is on without music. While Bose frames this as negligible, those sensitive to constant background hiss may find it distracting during silence.
Claim: “Personalized audio with CustomTune”
In expert benchmarks, CustomTune calibration produced consistently balanced playback tailored to ear shape. Quora’s test panel noted “crisp detail throughout the tested frequency band” with particular warmth in bass and mid-tones. Yet the absence of aptX or LDAC means audiophiles on Android can’t fully exploit hi-res source material, leading Tom’s Guide to warn, “codec support is limited to SBC and AAC… no spatial audio.”
Claim: “Seamless connectivity”
Marketing insists on “strong, continuous connection within 30 feet.” In reality, Reddit threads reveal a contrasting narrative: Pixel 6 and 7 Pro users report random drops, one-side audio, and app pairing failures. One frustrated owner shared: “Every two weeks they suddenly won’t pair… I have to unpair and repair to get them to work.” For iOS, reports are far smoother, making the reliability gap platform-dependent.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
ANC is the undisputed champion here. CNET’s evaluation found that voices, traffic, and HVAC hum are reduced by 60% or more, with ambient transparency (“Aware Mode”) sounding impressively natural compared to earlier Bose models. For remote workers, self-voice calling adjustments ensure you hear yourself clearly on Zoom or Teams without overpowering environmental pickup. In high-noise contexts like subway travel, calls stay intelligible—Quora’s lab tests confirmed only slight clarity dip for higher-pitched voices.
Sound quality is equally lauded when tuned via the app’s 3-band EQ. Reddit listeners gush over the bass depth without distortion, with one saying: “Great sound quality and bass 9/10” after three weeks of daily use. The ability to tweak mids and highs benefits genre-jumping users—from orchestral detail to bass-heavy hip-hop.
Comfort wins points with the redesigned two-piece fit kit. The smaller buds (30% reduction) and lighter case draw praise from prior-gen owners: CNET noted “about 40% smaller… truly pocketable.” The three tip/stability band sets have worked for varied ear shapes, valuable for gym-goers seeking a secure seal.
Common Complaints
Connectivity tops the grievance list, especially among Android adopters. Reddit’s consensus implies roughly “four with issues for every one without,” including app not detecting earbuds, random audio imbalance, and sync delays. While hardware (Qualcomm S5 chip) theoretically supports multipoint and aptX adaptive, Bose has not enabled them, frustrating multi-device users.
Battery life expectations are another stumbling block. At 6 hours max per charge with ANC always on, several long-day listeners find themselves mid-commute with depleted reserves. Trustpilot’s review bluntly labeled it “mediocre battery life,” pointing out that competitors like Sony WF-1000XM4 hit 8–12 hours.
Comfort is occasionally divisive—small-eared users report pressure points after an hour, with Tom’s Guide warning, “Those with high pain thresholds might feel some discomfort after about two hours of wear.” For highly athletic movement, Quora’s headstand tests saw buds loosening unless perfectly fitted.
Divisive Features
Call quality is generally strong; however, some environments reveal limits. While offices yield crystal-clear voices, outdoor calls in wind or near speeding cars transmit some background noise to the other party. Aware Mode transparency attracts both praise and indifference—some users value it for safe urban running, others prefer adjustable “how much” noise control.
Trust & Reliability
Connectivity quirks aren’t isolated to launch units; Reddit posts from long-term owners persist into firmware updates. One noted: “I've never had so many issues with connectivity… could just be faulty ones, but my Jabras perform better.” iOS owners generally escape this instability, suggesting device-ecosystem tuning plays a role.
Durability sentiment is cautiously positive—compact redesign and IPX4 resistance hold up under gym sweat or light rain, with few reports of catastrophic hardware failure. However, eBay resale listings show significant numbers labeled “parts only” or “refurbished,” hinting at notable returns or replacements in the market.
Alternatives
For iPhone loyalists, AirPods Pro 2 cost less ($249), offer spatial audio, multipoint-like iCloud switching, and more comfortable long-wear fit—though Bose’s ANC still edges ahead. Sony’s WF-1000XM4 beat Bose in battery terms and codec breadth, but can’t quite match ANC strength. Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro bring hi-res audio options for Galaxy owners, yet lack Bose’s ANC depth.
Reddit voices even recommend older Bose QC Earbuds Gen 1 for better connectivity stability despite larger size: “I returned mine and bought the Gen 1s… none of those issues with gen 1.”
Price & Value
Market pricing fluctuates sharply. New retail remains at $299, but eBay refurb or open-box listings drop to ~$116–$165, making them attractive for ANC-focused buyers willing to gamble on prior ownership. Community tip: Buy direct from Bose with coupons—one Redditor shared: “$179 with 90 day money back… plus AMEX $25 off.” Resale value holds decently if kept in good condition, likely due to ANC prestige.
FAQ
Q: Do they support multipoint Bluetooth?
A: No, they can remember up to seven devices but connect to one at a time. Switching requires manual selection via device settings or the Bose Music app.
Q: Can ANC be turned off to extend battery life?
A: No. ANC is always active, though you can adjust its level. This design choice caps maximum battery at about six hours.
Q: Are they good for sports?
A: With IPX4 resistance and secure fit options, they suit gym use. However, stability varies—small ears or high-impact activity may cause loosening.
Q: Do Android users get hi-res audio?
A: Not currently. Support is limited to SBC and AAC. AptX adaptive has been promised but not yet widely available.
Q: How do they compare to Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?
A: Ultras add more premium features and potentially better battery, but QC II’s ANC is nearly identical at a lower price.
Final Verdict
Buy if: You prize noise cancellation above all else, with sound quality second, and mostly use iOS or a single Android device.
Avoid if: You need all-day battery, multipoint pairing, or consistently reliable Android connectivity.
Pro tip from community: Test fit extensively using included tips/bands and Bose’s app fit test; comfort and seal are central to unlocking both full ANC and sound potential.
