Noise-cancelling headphones have become a necessity in today’s fast-paced world, where noise pollution has become a constant source of irritation. Two of the most popular noise-cancelling headphones on the market are the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and the Sony WH-1000XM4. In this article, we’ll compare these two headphones and help you decide which one is better for you.
Design and Comfort
When it comes to design, both the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and the Sony WH-1000XM4 are quite similar. Both headphones have a sleek and modern design, with a premium look and feel. The QuietComfort 35 II has a more minimalistic design, while the WH-1000XM4 has a slightly more futuristic look.
In terms of comfort, both headphones are extremely comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. The QuietComfort 35 II has soft ear cushions that are gentle on the ears, while the WH-1000XM4 has a thicker padding that provides extra comfort.
Both headphones also have similar controls, with touch controls on the ear cups that allow you to adjust the volume, skip tracks, and answer calls. However, the Sony WH-1000XM4 has a few extra features, such as the ability to pause music automatically when you take the headphones off your ears.
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM4
Noise Cancellation
Both the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and the Sony WH-1000XM4 are known for their exceptional noise-cancelling capabilities. However, the Sony WH-1000XM4 has taken things to the next level with its advanced noise-cancelling technology.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 uses Dual Noise Sensor technology, which captures ambient noise from both outside and inside the headphones. It then passes this information to the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, which cancels out the noise using a newly developed algorithm. The result is an incredibly effective noise-cancelling experience, even in noisy environments like airplanes or busy city streets.
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II also has excellent noise-cancelling capabilities, but it can’t quite match the Sony WH-1000XM4 in this regard. It uses a noise-rejecting dual-microphone system to block out noise, but it’s not as effective as Sony’s Dual Noise Sensor technology.
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM4
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, both headphones deliver excellent performance. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II has a balanced sound signature with deep, punchy bass and clear mids and highs. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a neutral sound with no added coloration.
The Sony WH-1000XM4, on the other hand, has a slightly more exciting sound signature with boosted bass and treble. This makes it a better choice for those who want a more fun and engaging listening experience. The WH-1000XM4 also has support for Sony’s 360 Reality Audio, which creates a 3D audio experience that’s incredibly immersive.
Winner: Tie
Battery Life
Both the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and the Sony WH-1000XM4 have impressive battery life, but the Sony WH-1000XM4 has a slight edge in this department.
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II has a battery life of up to 20 hours with noise cancelling on, and up to 40 hours with noise cancelling off. The Sony WH-1000XM4, on the other hand, has a battery life of up to 30 hours with noise cancelling on, and up to 38 hours with noise cancelling off. Additionally, the WH-1000XM4 supports fast charging, which gives you 5 hours of playback with just10 minutes of charging.
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM4
Features
Both headphones come with a range of features that enhance their functionality and user experience. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II has support for Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control your music and access information hands-free. It also has Bose AR, which is an augmented reality platform that delivers audio content based on your location.
The Sony WH-1000XM4, on the other hand, has a range of features that make it a more advanced and versatile headphone. It has Speak-to-Chat, which pauses your music and turns off noise cancelling when you start speaking. It also has Adaptive Sound Control, which adjusts the noise cancelling based on your location and activities.
Winner: Sony WH-1000XM4
Price
When it comes to price, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II is slightly more affordable than the Sony WH-1000XM4. The Bose headphones retail for around $299, while the Sony headphones are priced at around $349.
While the price difference may not be significant, it’s worth noting that the Sony WH-1000XM4 has a few extra features and better noise-cancelling capabilities, which may justify the higher price tag for some users.
Winner: Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Conclusion
Both the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and the Sony WH-1000XM4 are excellent noise-cancelling headphones that deliver exceptional sound quality, comfort, and design. However, the Sony WH-1000XM4 has a few extra features and more advanced noise-cancelling technology, making it the better choice for those who prioritize noise-cancelling performance and advanced features.
On the other hand, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II is a more affordable option with excellent sound quality and a simple, elegant design. It’s a great choice for those who want a reliable and comfortable pair of headphones without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, the choice between these two headphones comes down to personal preference and priorities. Both headphones are excellent choices and deliver exceptional performance, making them two of the best noise-cancelling headphones on the market today.
