Owen PalmerBy Owen Palmer

Updated November 2026

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II wireless headphones are a noise-cancelling over-ear model that many owners still use daily. This guide walks you through pairing, checking firmware, adjusting noise cancelling and fixing the problems owners most often report. By the end, you should be able to get reliable Bluetooth performance and make the most of the battery and controls.

What the QuietComfort 35 II Is and Who It Suits

The QuietComfort 35 II is the second generation of Bose’s wireless over-ear line with active noise cancelling. It connects over Bluetooth, supports a wired cable for use when the battery is flat, and includes a voice assistant button on most versions. Owners often describe it as a comfortable, long-wearing pair for commuting, flights and office use. Because it is an older model, some features that newer Bose headphones offer, such as advanced app-based EQ and multipoint pairing on every device, may not be available in the same form.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Bose SoundLink Around-Ear Wireless Headphones II White Review (2026).

Before troubleshooting anything, confirm which model you own. The sticker or box will show the model number, and the Bose Music app will identify the product once it is connected. Knowing the exact version helps you find the right manual and firmware.

Initial Setup and Pairing

Charge the headphones fully before the first pairing. Bose specifies a charging time of roughly two hours for a full charge through the included micro-USB cable, so plan for that before you start.

  1. Power the headphones off, then press and hold the Bluetooth button until you hear a voice prompt indicating pairing mode.
  2. On your phone or laptop, open Bluetooth settings and select the QuietComfort 35 II from the list.
  3. Confirm the connection with a voice prompt or a chime. The headphones should remember the device for future sessions.
  4. Install the Bose Music app to check for firmware updates and adjust settings such as noise cancelling level.

If your device does not show the headphones, forget the pairing on the phone, turn the headphones off, and repeat the steps. Pairing problems are most often caused by an old saved connection rather than a hardware fault.

Checking and Updating Firmware

Firmware updates can fix connection drops, battery reporting errors and voice prompt issues. Open the Bose Music app, select your headphones, and look for a firmware or software update prompt. Keep the headphones charged above half and stay within range of your phone during the update. Do not turn the headphones off while the update is running, because an interrupted update can leave the device needing a reset.

Adjusting Noise Cancelling and Controls

The QuietComfort 35 II uses active noise cancelling, which relies on microphones that sample ambient sound and generate a counter signal. Performance depends on a proper seal between the ear cups and your head, so fit matters more than any setting.

Situation Suggested Setting What to Expect
Airplane cabin Full noise cancelling Strong reduction in engine drone
Busy street Full noise cancelling Reduced traffic noise, voices remain audible
Office with coworkers Moderate or full Quieter background, less distraction
Walking outdoors Off or low Better awareness of traffic and announcements

Use the noise cancelling button or the app to switch levels. If you wear glasses, check that the arms do not break the seal at the ear cup edge, since that gap is a common reason owners feel the cancelling is weaker than expected.

Battery and Charging Care

Manufacturers generally specify that the battery is rated for around 20 hours of use with noise cancelling on, though real-world results vary with volume and temperature. To keep the battery healthy over time, avoid leaving the headphones on a charger for long periods in hot environments, and store them with a partial charge if you will not use them for weeks.

  • Use the supplied cable or a known-good USB cable to charge.
  • Check the battery level in the Bose Music app before long trips.
  • If the battery drains quickly, reset the headphones and check firmware before assuming the battery is worn out.

Common Problems and Fixes

Headphones Will Not Connect

Remove the saved pairing from your device, restart both the phone and the headphones, and pair again. Keep the headphones close to the device during setup and avoid pairing near other active Bluetooth gear.

Audio Cuts Out or Stutters

Move away from Wi-Fi routers and microwaves, which can interfere with the 2.4 GHz band. Update your phone’s operating system and the headphones’ firmware, since dropouts are sometimes resolved by software changes.

Noise Cancelling Seems Weak

Check the ear cup seal, make sure the noise cancelling level is set to full, and confirm the battery is not critically low. Some owners report that performance dips slightly when the battery is nearly empty.

Voice Prompts Are Missing

Open the app and confirm the language and prompt settings. A firmware update often restores missing prompts.

Tips for Getting the Most From Your Headphones

Good habits make a noticeable difference. Clean the ear cushions with a slightly damp cloth and let them dry fully, because oils and sweat degrade the foam and weaken the seal. Store the headphones in the carrying case to protect the hinges and the cable connector. If you use the wired connection, check the cable for kinks near the plug, since that is a common failure point.

For related reading on this model, see Bose QuietComfort 35 Headphones: Setup, Fixes and Model Tips (2026) and Bose QuietComfort 35 Wireless Headphones Noise Cancelling Review (2026). If you are comparing it with newer options, Bose Quietcomfort Headphones vs Sony Wh-1000xm5 (2026): Which Should You Choose? offers a useful side-by-side view. Owners weighing a switch to a different Bose line may also find Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen vs 1st Gen: Which Should You Choose? helpful. For turning the headphones off properly, see How to Turn Off Bose QuietComfort Headphones: 4 Quick Methods That Work (2026).

Common Mistakes

  • Skipping firmware updates and assuming a connection issue is hardware-related.
  • Wearing the headphones with a poor seal and blaming the noise cancelling.
  • Leaving the battery fully drained for long periods, which can shorten its useful life.
  • Cleaning the ear cushions with harsh solvents that break down the material.
  • Keeping old pairings on several devices, which can cause the headphones to connect to the wrong one.

A few accessories can extend the life and usefulness of these headphones.

  • Bose QuietComfort 35 replacement ear cushions: Fresh cushions restore a proper seal when the originals wear out or flatten. View on Amazon
  • Bose QuietComfort 35 carrying case: A hard or structured case protects the ear cups and hinges during travel. View on Amazon
  • Micro-USB charging cable: A spare cable makes it easier to charge at home, work and on the road. View on Amazon
  • Bose QuietComfort 35 3.5mm audio cable: A replacement cable lets you use the headphones wired when the battery is flat. View on Amazon

FAQ

How long does the Bose QuietComfort 35 II battery last?

Bose specifies about 20 hours with noise cancelling on. Actual runtime depends on volume, temperature and battery age.

Can I use the QuietComfort 35 II without charging?

Yes. Connect the included audio cable to the headphones and your device. Noise cancelling will not work in wired mode, but the audio will still play.

How do I reset the headphones?

Turn the headphones off, then press and hold the power and Bluetooth buttons together until you hear a prompt. Check Bose’s current support pages for the exact reset steps for your version.

Why do my headphones keep disconnecting?

Common causes include interference from other wireless devices, a saved pairing that has gone stale, and outdated firmware. Forget the device, update the firmware and pair again.

Can I use two devices at once?

Multipoint support depends on the firmware version and your devices. Check the Bose Music app for current pairing options.

Are replacement ear cushions worth buying?

If the cushions are flattened, cracked or peeling, replacements usually restore comfort and seal. Owners often report a noticeable difference in noise cancelling after swapping them.

Is it safe to listen at high volume?

Prolonged listening at high volume can harm hearing. Keep volume moderate and take breaks. If you notice ringing or hearing changes, consult a hearing professional.

Conclusion

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II rewards careful setup. Keep firmware current, get a proper ear cup seal, and treat the battery with a little care. Most common problems trace back to pairing history, seal fit or outdated software, and each can be fixed without specialist help.

Ready to choose one?

Owen Palmer

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.