Top-notch sound quality makes Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 desirable
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 come sporting new design that is absolutely charming.
The wire-free and sophisticated design of TWS earbuds enhances their popularity as a convenient smartphone accessory. Multiple pair points are being introduced with earbuds in order to enable users to connect with multiple devices. Obviously, the competition in the market is intensifying with Bose, Apple and Sony are fighting hard to outperform each other, especially on the ANC front. Bose’s new $299 earbuds have moved forward significantly.
They are far more compact and portable than almost all the other over-the ear noise-cancelling headphones, albeit, some important features like multi point connectivity (which allows you to pair with two Bluetooth devices at the same time) and wireless charging are missing. The latest offering from Bose in the true wireless space, the QuietComfort Earbuds 2 has undergone a complete redesign with respect to its predecessor.
The earbuds have become 30% smaller (17x31x22mm) than previous-generation Earbuds, the new ear tips are very soft, flexible, lighter (6.2g each) and the charging case has become more compact (59.4 x 66.3 x 26.7mm). They properly fit with all ear sizes with three different ear tip and stability band options.
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2: Made to survive hard knocks
The new stability bands which replace the old rubber wings provide ample grip during long listening sessions. The outer plastic is of higher quality than that of the predecessor and will survive hard knocks and harsh usage. The IPX4-rating proclaims protection from sweat and water. A 9.3mm full-range driver is fitted with each earbud to deliver sound. Bose’s true wireless noise-cancelling technology, the best in the market, is upgraded for the QuietComfort Earbuds 2.
The improved ANC gives you customization options in the form of two standard modes – Quiet (acoustic noise cancellation) and Aware (transparency mode). The ActiveSense technology comes into play when the device is in ‘Aware’ mode. This automatically adjusts the noise cancellation to nullify loud environmental noises, still allowing you hear what’s going on around you.
You can also pick from 2 of 10 custom modes that can be saved to your profile. The buds use Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connectivity, but the disappointing part is that the codec compatibility currently runs only to SBC and AAC, but you can expect some over-air upgrades from Bose soon. The soundstage is balanced to fetch in-depth detail, definitely an improvement over previous generation earbuds. Bassy elements and every individual instrument remain clear along with vocals.
Special features galore
The Bose Music app can boast of special features like Quiet (ANC)/Aware mode, ActiveSense, EQ, Eartip Fit Test, and Shortcut etc. Self-Voice is another speciality to adjust your voice on calls. You get a media player, power-saving mode, volume slider, battery level indicators, product tips, and a Bluetooth Connections setting showing previously paired devices.
The app gets a new equalizer to help adjust the music to your liking. Pairing the device is easier now, and the app lets you reconfigure some touch controls with instructions.
Battery life is estimated at six hours with ANC on, with the case holding three additional charges for a total of 24 hours and a quick 20-minute top-up will get you about two hours of playback. Despite the missing elements and the high price point on comparison, the noise cancellation capabilities and the top-notch sound quality make the QuietComfort Earbuds 2 a desirable TWS device.
