HiFiRated
Source: brand press / retailer
Bose · headphones
Bose QuietComfort 45
The travel-comfort benchmark — lighter and more neutral than the QC Ultra, often discounted heavily. The default recommendation for long flights when ANC and comfort matter more than spatial gimmicks.
Quick Answer
- Is the Bose QuietComfort 45 worth buying in 2026?
While they lack high-res codecs and a premium metal build, the QC45s excel at blocking out the world in supreme comfort. With frequent discounts making them cheaper than Bose's newer models, they remain an exceptional value for travelers and remote workers.
+Pros
- Exceptional, class-leading Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Supreme all-day comfort with a lightweight, non-sweaty design
- Reliable physical buttons instead of finicky touch controls
- Compact folding design with a highly portable travel case
- Multi-point Bluetooth connectivity for seamless device switching
−Cons
- Cannot completely turn off ANC (only ANC On or Aware mode)
- Build quality feels plasticky and lacks premium materials for the price
- No high-res Bluetooth codecs supported (lacks aptX, only SBC/AAC)
- Missing modern smart features like wear detection for auto-pause/resume
In-depth Review
Bose QuietComfort 45 Review — A slightly aging classic holds its ground against newer models by perfectly executing the fundamentals of comfort and noise cancellation
Specifications
| driver type | dynamic |
| form factor | closed-back over-ear |
| weight | 240g |
| battery | 24 hrs |
| anc | true |
| conn type | Bluetooth 5.1, 3.5mm |
Why This Product
The travel-comfort benchmark — lighter and more neutral than the QC Ultra, often discounted heavily. The default recommendation for long flights when ANC and comfort matter more than spatial gimmicks.
Key Specs
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Driver Type | dynamic |
| Form Factor | closed-back over-ear |
| Weight | 240g |
| Battery | 24 hrs |
| Anc | true |
| Conn Type | Bluetooth 5.1, 3.5mm |
Who It's For
This product is recommended for listeners and engineers who prioritize its core strengths. Check the specs and community quotes below to confirm it matches your use case and source chain before purchasing.
Community Signal
Selection draws from r/audiophile, r/headphones, r/homerecording, and r/audioengineering consensus plus YouTube reviewer consensus from established audio gear channels.
What Real Users Say
“QC45 is still the comfiest ANC can I've worn on a 14-hour flight, period.”
— u/audiophile_reader in r/audiophile
Last updated: May 2, 2026 · By Jordan Kim
