I haven’t been too much of a headphones-wearer in recent years, given that I don’t commute and don’t share a living space where I need to be mindful about sound. But I have been editing plenty of stories about headphones, so when facing how I might actually sleep on an upcoming long-haul flight, I knew Bose’s noise-canceling technology is among the best there is and snatched up a pair from their wireless QuietComfort line.
But even knowing of the legendary features in advance, I was unprepared for how good the brand’s active noise-canceling technology really is, and exactly how comfortable these cushion-y headphones are to wear. It was actually pretty shocking! Not only does the top-of-the-line ANC completely and immediately eliminate everything from banging construction noise to the hum of appliances (I cannot wait to drown out the noise on an airplane!), but I can wear these headphones for hours and remain completely unbothered by friction or pressure on my ears. They are markedly more comfortable than any earbuds I’ve ever worn.
Right now, just in time for holiday travel and gifting season, Bose’s newer-model QuietComfort headphones are 29% off, saving you a whopping $100.
Worth it? I’d say yes. These are an audiophile’s dream, with Bose’s well-known and exacting audio quality, plus the ability to make EQ adjustments to your preference in the free Bose app. You can also choose your level of noise-cancelation: Block out everything with Quiet Mode or still hear critical things happening around you with Aware Mode. There’s even a Wind Block feature to help you hear and communicate in gusty environments.
Designed for all-day use, these also allow you to seamlessly take and make clear calls, and they offer up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge — perfect for travelers, commuters and multitaskers. They come with a zippered case and charging cord, plus one more thoughtful feature: Though wireless via Bluetooth, they also come with an audio cable for times you prefer to be — or need to be, in the case of many airplane entertainment systems — plugged in. (Bose also offers an airline adapter for remaining wireless, and it fits in the carrying case.)
At Target, you can get them in black, white and a limited-edition cypress green; at Bose, they also come in an exclusive and chic moonstone blue. Check out some promising reviews from Target below:
“Bose QuietComfort headphones are amazing. I am surprised and impressed by the effect of noise cancellation. It is like pressing a mute button on the kids. It is definitely worth the investment. The headphones are lightweight and very comfortable to wear for long periods of time. The sound quality is fantastic and the battery life is great, exactly what I need.” — Katrina
“I bought these a few weeks because i started walking every morning! I needed a little motivation so i decided to look up some headphones. I came across these and I am amazed with the sound and quality! They are worth the money! You definitely get what you pay for! I can enjoy my morning walks that much more!” — Bigjes
“I have totally ditched my other headphones. Bose is game changer when it comes to headphones. The noise cancellation works great and it length of battery time is well worth the charging. Sleek design and user friendly app. Very impressed by the headphones.” — Raleigh919
″Unbeatable sound quality. I have always purchased Bose and have never been let down.” — anonymous
