Noise-canceling headphones have become increasingly popular in recent years, as people look for ways to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Two of the most popular noise-canceling headphones on the market are the Bose QuietComfort 45 and the Sony WH-1000XM4. But which one is right for you?
In this article, we will compare and contrast the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones, looking at factors such as sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, design, price, and other features. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of which headphones are the best fit for your needs.
Which one should you buy?
Here is a quick summary of which headphone is better suited for different needs:
- Best for ANC performance: Sony WH-1000XM4
- Best for sound quality: Sony WH-1000XM4 (if you prefer a bass-heavy sound profile) or Bose QuietComfort 45 (if you prefer a more neutral sound profile)
- Best for comfort: Bose QuietComfort 45
- Best for features: Sony WH-1000XM4
- Best for battery life: Sony WH-1000XM4
- Best for budget: Sony WH-1000XM4
| Bose QuietComfort 45 | Sony WH-1000XM4 |
|---|---|
| Click here to check price | Check latest price on Amazon |
ANC performance
Both the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones offer excellent noise cancellation. However, the Sony headphones have a slight edge in this area. It is able to block out more ambient noise, especially in the high-frequency range.
The Sony headphones are better at blocking out low-frequency noise, such as the rumble of an airplane or the roar of a train. This is because the Sony headphones use a combination of active noise cancellation (ANC) and passive noise isolation. ANC uses microphones to detect and cancel out ambient noise, while passive noise isolation uses physical barriers to block out noise.
The Bose headphones also use a combination of ANC and passive noise isolation. However, the Bose headphones’ ANC system is not as effective at blocking out low-frequency noise.
Sound quality
The Bose QC45 has a more neutral sound profile, while the Sony WH-1000XM4 has a more bass-heavy sound profile. Some people may prefer the more balanced sound of the QC45, while others may prefer the more immersive sound of the XM4.
As mentioned in the introduction, both the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones offer excellent sound quality. However, there are some key differences between the two.
The Bose headphones have a more balanced sound profile, with clear highs and mids and deep, punchy bass. This makes the Bose headphones ideal for a variety of music genres, including classical, jazz, and rock.
The Sony headphones have a more V-shaped sound profile, with boosted highs and bass and recessed mids. This gives the Sony headphones a more exciting sound, especially for genres such as pop, hip hop, and electronic music. However, it can also make the Sony headphones sound a bit fatiguing over long listening sessions.
Comfort
Both the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. However, the Bose headphones have a slight edge in this area.
The Bose headphones have softer ear cups and a more lightweight design. The Sony headphones have slightly firmer ear cups and a slightly heavier design.
Design
The Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones both have sleek and stylish designs. However, the Sony headphones have a more modern look, with a metal headband and touch-sensitive controls. The Bose headphones have a more traditional look, with a plastic headband and physical buttons.
Ultimately, the best design for you is a matter of personal preference.
Features
Both the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones offer a variety of other features, such as Bluetooth connectivity, support for high-resolution audio, and long battery life.
However, the Sony headphones offer a few additional features:
- Adaptive sound control: Adaptive sound control automatically adjusts the noise cancellation and EQ settings based on your environment. This is a great feature if you travel frequently or spend a lot of time in different environments.
- Quick attention mode: Quick attention mode allows you to hear your surroundings without having to take off the headphones. This is a great feature if you need to have a quick conversation with someone or hear an announcement.
Battery life
The Sony WH-1000XM4 has a longer battery life than the Bose QC45, with up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge with ANC turned on. The QC45 has a battery life of up to 24 hours with ANC turned on.
Price
The Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are slightly more expensive than the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones. However, the Sony headphones are currently on sale for $284, which is $45 less than the Bose headphones. (info as on November 2023)
Overall
Both the Bose QuietComfort 45 and the Sony WH-1000XM4 are excellent wireless headphones with ANC. The best choice for you will depend on your individual priorities.
If you are looking for the best possible ANC performance and lower-priced option, then the Sony WH-1000XM4 is the better choice.
If you are looking for a more comfortable and don’t mind paying a little more with a more neutral sound profile, then the Bose QuietComfort 45 is the better choice.
Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45) vs Sony WH-1000XM4 Specification Comparison Table
| Feature | Bose QuietComfort 45 | Sony WH-1000XM4 |
|---|---|---|
| Best NC Headphones | Yes | Yes |
| Price as on 1 Nov 2023 | $299.99 | $248.00 |
| Best Buy | Click here to check price | Check latest price on Amazon |
| Active Noise Cancelling | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Bluetooth range in meters | 9 m | 9 m |
| Multi-point technology | Yes | No |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB-C, 2.5-to-3.5mm TRS cable | Bluetooth, USB-C, 3.5mm audio cable |
| Sound Profiles | 5 built-in sound profiles, custom sound profiles using the Bose Music app | Adaptive Sound Control, DSEE Extreme |
| Listening Time ANC OFF | Up to 24 hours | Up to 38 hours |
| Listening Time ANC ON | Up to 22 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Full Charge | 2.5 hours | Approx. 3 Hours (Full charge) |
| Fast Charge | 15-minute charge will give you up to 3 hours of playback | 10-minute charge gives you 5 hours of playback |
| Transparency Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Lossless audio via USB-C | Yes | No |
| Dynamic Head Tracking | No | No |
| Integrated Digital Processor | Yes | Yes |
| Compatibility | Compatible with Apple & Android | Compatible with Apple & Android |
| Driver | 40mm drivers | 40mm, dome type (CCAW Voice coil) |
| Design | Portable, lightweight design | Over-ear, circumaural design |
| All-Day Comfort | Yes | Yes |
| Design | Adjustable headbands | Adjustable fold-flat design |
| Dimensions and weight | 7.68″ H x 6.18″ W x 3.15″ D (0.98 lb) | 7.24″ x 6.69″ x 3.21″ (0.88 lbs) |
| Call Quality | Yes | Yes |
| Enhanced Apple Compatibility | Yes | No |
| Over-the-air (OTA) updates | Yes | Yes |
| Google Fast Pair | Yes | Yes |
| Easy to Use, Hard to Lose | Yes | Yes |
| Charging Interface(s) | USB-C | USB-C |
| Power | Rechargeable lithium-ion battery | Rechargeable lithium-ion battery |
| Multi function button | Yes | Yes |
| In the Box | QuietComfort 45 Headphones, USB-C charging cable, 2.5-to-3.5mm TRS cable, carrying case | WH-1000XM4 Headphones, carrying case, headphone cable, USB-C cable, plug adapter for in-flight use |
