Bose Quietcomfort 25 vs 35: Which Noise-Canceling Reigns?
Tired of airplane engine roars or the office chatter ruining your focus? You’re in luck! We’re diving deep into the world of noise-canceling headphones to help you find your perfect listening companion. Specifically, we’ll be pitting two titans of the industry against each other.
We’re talking about the legendary Bose QuietComfort series, and today, we’re putting the Bose QuietComfort 25 and the Bose QuietComfort 35 head-to-head. These headphones have earned their reputations for delivering exceptional audio quality and unparalleled noise cancellation.
But which one comes out on top? Is the older QC25 still a worthy contender, or does the newer QC35 offer a significant upgrade? We’ll explore the key differences in design, features, sound quality, and overall value to help you make the best choice.
Get ready to discover which Bose QuietComfort headphone deserves a place in your ears!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | QC25 | QC35 |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Excellent | Excellent |
| Connectivity | Wired | Wireless (Bluetooth) |
| Bluetooth | No | Yes |
| Battery Life (Wireless) | N/A | Up to 20 hours |
| Battery Type | AAA Battery | Rechargeable Lithium-ion |
| Microphone | In-line (wired) | Built-in |
| Earcup Design | Over-ear | Over-ear |
| Weight | 195 g | 235 g |
| Foldable Design | Yes | Yes |
| Carry Case | Included | Included |
| Controls | In-line Remote | On-earcup |
| Audio Codec Support | N/A | SBC, AAC |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Noise Cancellation
- Bose Quietcomfort 25: Excellent noise cancellation using active noise reduction technology. Effectively blocks out a wide range of ambient sounds. Requires AAA batteries.
- 35: Also features excellent noise cancellation, but with improved digital processing for potentially better performance in certain scenarios. Battery is rechargeable via USB and offers different levels of noise cancellation.
- Winner: 35
Connectivity
- Bose Quietcomfort 25: Primarily uses a wired connection (3.5mm audio cable). Offers reliable, consistent audio.
- 35: Offers both wired and wireless (Bluetooth) connectivity. Provides greater flexibility and convenience.
- Winner: 35
Battery Life
- Bose Quietcomfort 25: Relies on AAA batteries. Battery life depends on the type of battery used.
- 35: Offers rechargeable battery with up to 20 hours of wireless playback, or longer with wired use.
- Winner: 35
Comfort
- Bose Quietcomfort 25: Generally considered very comfortable, with plush earcups and a lightweight design. Some users find the clamping force a bit tight.
- 35: Similar comfort levels to the QC25, with improvements to the headband design and earcup materials for prolonged wear.
- Winner: Tie
Audio Quality
- Bose Quietcomfort 25: Delivers balanced and clear audio, with a focus on a pleasing listening experience.
- 35: Similar audio quality to the QC25, with some subtle improvements in clarity and detail due to the enhanced digital processing.
- Winner: Tie
Design and Build Quality
- Bose Quietcomfort 25: Features a durable build, but the plastic construction can feel less premium than some competitors.
- 35: A more modern design, with improved materials, including a smoother finish.
- Winner: 35
Portability and Storage
- Bose Quietcomfort 25: Folds flat for easy storage in the included carrying case. Relatively compact.
- 35: Folds flat and comes with a carrying case. Similar portability to the QC25.
- Winner: Tie
Controls
- Bose Quietcomfort 25: In-line remote on the cable for basic controls (play/pause, answer calls).
- 35: On-ear controls for volume, track navigation, call management, and voice assistant activation.
- Winner: 35
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Tie |
| Connectivity | QC35 |
| Battery Life | QC35 |
| Comfort | Tie |
| Portability | Tie |
| Features | QC35 |
What They Have in Common
- Noise Cancellation: Both the QC25 and QC35 are renowned for their exceptional noise cancellation capabilities, effectively blocking out a wide range of ambient sounds. This feature is ideal for travel, work, or any situation where you need to focus.
- Comfort: Both headphones are designed with comfort in mind, featuring plush earcups and a lightweight design that allows for extended listening sessions. They provide a comfortable fit even during long periods of use.
- Portability: Both models feature a foldable design and come with a carrying case, making them easy to store and transport. This makes them convenient for travel and everyday use.
- Over-Ear Design: Both headphones utilize an over-ear design, which contributes to the superior noise isolation and comfortable fit. This design fully encapsulates the ears, enhancing the audio experience.
- Bose Quality: Both headphones benefit from Bose’s reputation for quality audio and build. They are both well-constructed, designed to last and deliver a premium listening experience.
Bose Quietcomfort 25 vs 35 Buying Guide
Comfort and Design
The Bose QuietComfort 25 and 35 headphones prioritize comfort, crucial for long listening sessions. The QC25 features a classic, over-ear design with plush earcups and a lightweight build, ideal for portability. The QC35 elevates this with a slightly more refined design, using premium materials like Alcantara for the earcups and headband. Both headphones offer a secure and comfortable fit, minimizing pressure points. The QC35’s wireless design eliminates the cord, adding to its convenience and comfort, especially during travel or workouts. The QC35 is also slightly more durable, using better materials.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
Both models deliver impressive sound quality, characteristic of Bose’s signature audio experience. The QC25 provides clear audio with a balanced sound profile, suitable for various music genres. The noise cancellation is exceptional, effectively blocking out ambient noise. The QC35 improves upon this, offering enhanced noise cancellation and a slightly more detailed soundstage. The wireless connectivity doesn’t compromise sound quality, ensuring a premium listening experience. The QC35’s noise cancellation is also more adaptable to changing environments.
Features and Functionality
The QC25 offers a straightforward experience with an inline remote for basic controls. It requires a wired connection and relies on a AAA battery for noise cancellation. The QC35 introduces wireless Bluetooth connectivity, providing greater freedom of movement and convenience. It features integrated controls on the earcups for managing music playback and calls. The QC35 also has a built-in microphone for hands-free calls and supports voice assistants. The battery life is also improved over the QC25, offering longer listening sessions.
Battery Life and Charging
The QC25 operates on a single AAA battery, which provides up to 35 hours of noise cancellation. While convenient, the need to replace batteries can be a minor inconvenience. The QC35 offers a rechargeable battery with up to 20 hours of wireless listening. Charging is done via a micro-USB cable. The battery life is displayed via a voice prompt. The QC35 can also be used in wired mode if the battery runs out, making it more versatile. The QC35 is the winner in this category.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The QC25 is designed with a wired connection, compatible with devices with a 3.5mm headphone jack. It includes an adapter for airplane use. The QC35 offers Bluetooth connectivity, making it compatible with a wider range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. It supports multipoint pairing, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously. The QC35’s wireless functionality provides a seamless experience, especially for users who prefer a cable-free setup. Both models are compatible with most devices.
Price and Value
The QC25 is generally available at a lower price point compared to the QC35, offering a good value proposition for those seeking excellent noise cancellation without wireless functionality. The QC35, while more expensive, justifies its price with its wireless convenience, enhanced features, and premium design. The QC35 is an investment in a more modern and versatile listening experience. The QC35’s added features, such as Bluetooth and a built-in microphone, contribute to its higher price. Both headphones offer excellent value.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy bose quietcomfort 25 If…
- You prefer a wired connection and don’t want to deal with Bluetooth pairing or charging.
- You don’t mind using AAA batteries and prefer the convenience of easily replaceable power.
- You want a slightly lighter and potentially more affordable option.
- You prioritize simplicity and ease of use.
Buy 35 If…
- You value the convenience of wireless connectivity and Bluetooth functionality.
- You prefer a rechargeable battery and longer battery life.
- You want the latest features and a more modern design.
- You want the flexibility to use the headphones wirelessly or with a wired connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between the QC25 and QC35?
The main difference is the QC35’s wireless Bluetooth connectivity. The QC25 is a wired headphone, requiring a cable connection. The QC35 also offers improved features, such as integrated controls and a built-in microphone. The QC35 has a more premium design. The QC35 features a rechargeable battery and is more versatile for modern usage.
Does the QC25 have a built-in microphone?
Yes, the QC25 includes an inline microphone on the cable, enabling hands-free calls. The microphone quality is adequate for clear voice communication in quiet environments. However, the QC35’s microphone quality is better. The inline microphone is convenient for basic call functionality. The microphone works well.
How long does the QC35’s battery last?
The QC35 provides up to 20 hours of wireless listening on a single charge. This allows for extended use during travel or long workdays. If using the wired connection with noise cancellation, the battery lasts longer. The battery performance is strong. The QC35 is excellent in the battery department.
Can I use the QC25 without noise cancellation?
No, the QC25’s noise cancellation is essential, and the headphones will not function without a battery. The noise cancellation is a core feature. The AAA battery powers noise cancellation. The battery is necessary for usage.
Are the QC25 and QC35 comfortable for extended wear?
Yes, both headphones are designed for comfort, featuring plush earcups and a lightweight design. The QC35 is slightly more comfortable due to its premium materials and improved design. Both headphones can be worn for hours. The comfort is an important part of the experience.
Does the QC35 support multiple device connections?
Yes, the QC35 supports multipoint pairing, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously. This enables seamless switching between devices, such as a phone and a laptop. The feature adds convenience. The feature is useful in multiple scenarios.
Which headphone is better for travel?
The QC35 is generally better for travel due to its wireless design and long battery life. The absence of a cable provides more freedom. The noise cancellation is also excellent on both headphones. The QC35’s portability is better. The QC35 is the travel champion.
Final Verdict
Both the Bose QuietComfort 25 and 35 offer impressive noise cancellation and sound quality. The QC35, with its wireless design, enhanced features, and improved comfort, presents a more modern and versatile listening experience. While the QC25 remains a solid choice, the QC35’s added convenience and features make it the superior option for most users.
Winner: Bose QuietComfort 35