By Owen PalmerUpdated November 2026
The bose quietcomfort headphones 35 ii are a good fit for commuters, frequent flyers and anyone who wants reliable noise cancelling without paying for the newest flagship features. They suit people who spend long stretches on trains, planes or in open offices and want a comfortable over-ear pair with Bluetooth and an optional cable. Buyers who need the latest processing, spatial audio, or a modern app with deep equalizer control will likely want to look at newer Bose or Sony models instead. Anyone who plans heavy outdoor use, needs water resistance, or wants a headphone that folds into a very small case may also find better options elsewhere.
Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones, Noise-Cancelling, with Alexa Voice Control – Black
Product Overview
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is the second-generation version of Bose’s QuietComfort 35 over-ear headphones. It is a closed-back, wireless design that uses active noise cancelling to reduce steady background sounds such as engine rumble, air conditioning and general cabin noise. The listing identifies it as a Bluetooth headphone with Alexa voice control, and it is offered in black.
Compared with the first QuietComfort 35, the II model added Alexa built in, which lets you use voice commands for music playback, calls and questions without picking up your phone. The headphones were positioned by Bose as a more versatile version of the original, with a focus on comfort for long listening sessions and a noise-cancelling system tuned for everyday travel rather than studio work.
The design follows the familiar Bose over-ear style: padded ear cups, a telescoping headband, and controls on the right ear cup. The unit is built around a rechargeable battery, and it can also be used wired with the included cable when the battery runs down, which is useful on flights or when you want to skip Bluetooth latency.
Key Features & Specifications
The figures below reflect what Bose publishes for this model and what the product name confirms. Where a detail varies by batch or region, check the listing or the box before buying.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Headphone type | Over-ear, closed-back |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth wireless and wired (3.5 mm cable included) |
| Noise cancelling | Active noise cancelling (QuietComfort) |
| Voice control | Alexa voice control built in |
| Color | Black |
| Model generation | Second generation (II) |
| Power | Rechargeable battery; wired use available when depleted |
| Primary use | Travel, commuting, office and home listening |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Noise cancelling is well suited to steady low-frequency sounds like engines, fans and HVAC noise.
- Padded over-ear design is widely described by owners as comfortable for multi-hour wear.
- Alexa built in allows hands-free commands for playback and questions.
- Wired option with a cable means the headphones still work when the battery is flat.
- Bluetooth pairing with phones and laptops is straightforward for most users.
- Closed-back design gives reasonable isolation from surrounding sounds in public spaces.
Cons
- As a second-generation model, it lacks newer features found on later Bose headphones.
- Owners sometimes report that noise cancelling is less effective against higher-pitched voices and sudden sounds.
- Closed-back ear cups can become warm during long sessions in hot weather.
- Bulk and folding footprint are larger than compact true wireless earbuds.
- Battery life and charging times are fine for everyday use but trail some newer competitors.
- Not water resistant, so sweaty workouts and rain need caution.
Performance Analysis
Noise cancelling is the main reason most people look at this model. Active noise cancelling works best on predictable, continuous sounds below about 1,000 Hz, such as jet engine drone, bus rumble and ventilation hum. Owner feedback for this generation generally describes a clear reduction in those sounds, which makes it practical for planes and commuter rail. Higher-frequency sounds, including conversation, keyboard clicks and crying children, are reduced less, so expect some leakage in busy offices.
Comfort is another area where owners tend to be positive. The ear cups are deep enough for most adult ears, and the headband distributes weight reasonably well. Clamping force is moderate, which suits many people for long sessions but may feel firm to those with larger heads. Glasses wearers often report that the temple area stays comfortable, though the seal can be affected by frame thickness.
Sound quality is typically described as balanced with a slightly warm low end, which many casual listeners prefer for pop, podcasts and streaming. Audiophiles who want a neutral, detailed profile may find it less analytical than higher-end open-back designs. Bluetooth performance is generally reliable at normal distances, and the wired connection offers a direct alternative when you need consistent audio without wireless compression.
Battery life and charging should be checked against the current Bose specification for your region, since figures can differ. Owners generally find that the battery lasts through a typical workday or a long flight, and that wired use is a dependable backup.
Who Should Buy This Product?
This pair suits travelers who want dependable noise cancelling and a comfortable fit without needing the newest software features. It is also a sensible choice for people who want Alexa voice control and a wired fallback. Students and remote workers who mainly listen at home or in a quiet office will get good value from the comfort and cancellation.
It is less suitable for buyers who want the latest Bose processing, customizable EQ through a newer app, or a compact earbud form factor. Athletes who train outdoors in rain or heavy sweat should look at sport-focused models instead. If you need the very latest noise cancelling performance, a newer generation will likely serve you better.
Buying Guide
When deciding whether this generation fits, start with your main use. For planes and trains, the noise cancelling and comfort matter most. For calls and office work, check the microphone performance in reviews from people with similar setups. For home listening, sound balance and comfort over long periods become the priorities.
Check the seal and fit before you buy if you can. Try the headphones on for at least 15 minutes, since clamping pressure is easier to judge over time. If you wear glasses, pay attention to the temple comfort. Consider the case or pouch, because a protective carrying solution helps with a larger over-ear design.
Several well-known alternatives are worth comparing. If you want a compact option, true wireless earbuds offer much smaller carrying size, though they usually trade away some comfort and battery endurance. If you want a newer generation with more modern features, consider a later Bose QuietComfort model. For a budget pick with an established noise cancelling reputation, a renewed or refurbished unit of an earlier generation can be a practical choice.
The following options are relevant comparisons:
- Amazon Renewed QuietComfort 35 (Series II) Wireless Headphones (budget-minded, certified refurbished option):
Amazon Renewed QuietComfort 35 (Series II) Wireless Headphones, Noise Cancelling – Black (Renewed)
- WCMade by Wicked Cushions Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort 35 and 35ii (a comfort upgrade for existing owners who find the stock pads firm or worn):
WCMade by Wicked Cushions | Softer Leather, Luxurious Memory Foam, Added Thickness & Durability | Black PadZ QC35 – Wicked Cushions Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort 35 & 35ii
Compare warranty terms, return policies and whether the seller is authorized before you buy, especially for renewed units.
For more context on related models and setup questions, see Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Headphones: Setup, Fixes and Model Tips (2026) and Bose QuietComfort 35 Headphones: Setup, Fixes and Model Tips (2026). If you are weighing a newer generation, Bose QuietComfort Headphones vs Ultra: Which One Fits Your Needs? offers a useful side-by-side view.
FAQ
Does the Bose QuietComfort 35 II work without Bluetooth?
Yes. The headphones include a cable, so you can connect them to a device with a 3.5 mm jack for wired listening. Noise cancelling depends on the battery, so check the battery level before relying on it for a long flight.
Does the QuietComfort 35 II have Alexa built in?
Yes. The model name includes Alexa voice control, which lets you issue voice commands for music, calls and questions. Alexa availability can depend on your region and paired device.
Is the QuietComfort 35 II good for travel?
Many owners describe it as well suited to planes, trains and buses because the noise cancelling reduces steady engine and cabin sounds. Results vary with seat location and the type of noise.
Is it comfortable for long listening sessions?
Owner feedback generally praises the padded ear cups and headband. Some people find the clamping force firm or report warmth after several hours, so trying a pair in person is helpful if possible.
Is it water resistant or suitable for workouts?
No. The design is not sold as water resistant, so avoid sweaty workouts, rain and humid environments. A dedicated sport headphone is a better choice for those conditions.
How does it compare with newer Bose models?
Newer QuietComfort models typically add updated processing and features. If you need the latest app controls or improved noise cancelling, check the newer lineup. This second-generation model remains a practical choice for buyers focused on comfort and core cancelling.
Should I buy a renewed unit?
A renewed unit can be a reasonable way to save money if it comes from a reputable seller with a clear return policy and warranty. Inspect the condition, confirm the included accessories and check that the battery holds a charge.
Final Verdict
Is the Bose QuietComfort Headphones 35 II Worth It?
For most buyers who want comfortable over-ear noise cancelling, Alexa voice control and a wired backup, the bose quietcomfort headphones 35 ii remain a solid choice. Its strengths are the cancellation of steady low-frequency noise, a comfortable padded fit and flexible connectivity. Its limitations are its age relative to newer Bose models, moderate performance against higher-pitched sounds, and the lack of water resistance. If those trade-offs fit your routine, it is worth considering. If you want the newest features or a compact earbud form, look elsewhere.
Related reading
- Soundlink Around-ear Wireless Headphones Ii Bose Review (2026)
- How to Turn Off Bose QuietComfort Headphones: 4 Quick Methods That Work (2026)
About Owen Palmer
Owen Palmer is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our brand headphones & noise cancelling guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
