By Owen PalmerUpdated November 2026
The bose quietcomfort headphones black model is a good fit for commuters, travelers and remote workers who want strong active noise cancelling in an over-ear design without paying for the highest-end extras. Buyers who spend long hours on flights, trains or open-plan offices tend to benefit most from its noise reduction and battery life. Shoppers who need built-in multipoint pairing with several devices at once, advanced spatial audio features, or a fully foldable, ultra-compact carry case may want to look at other options. People who mainly listen at home with wired sources, or who care most about studio-grade sound tuning, should also consider skipping it in favor of a dedicated audiophile model.
Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) – Wireless Headphones, Active Over Ear Noise Cancelling and Mic, Immersive Audio, USB-C Charging and Lossless Audio, Up to 24 Hours of Play time, Black
Product Overview
The Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) in black are wireless, over-ear headphones built around active noise cancelling. They sit in Bose’s QuietComfort lineup, which has long been the brand’s mainstream noise cancelling family. This version is listed with USB-C charging, an integrated microphone for calls, lossless audio support, and an immersive audio feature. The listing states battery life of up to 24 hours of playtime, which places it in the same general range as many competing over-ear models.
Compared with earlier QuietComfort generations, the 2nd Gen model is positioned as a refresh focused on practical upgrades: a modern charging port, updated audio processing, and a design intended for all-day wear. Owners who have used earlier Bose over-ear models often describe the overall comfort and build as familiar, which can be reassuring if you are upgrading from an older pair. If you are weighing generations, our guide Compare Bose QuietComfort Headphones: Which Model Is Right for You? (2026) lays out the differences in more detail.
Bose has historically emphasized a neutral-leaning, comfortable sound signature with a modest bass boost, and the QuietComfort line generally follows that approach. Expect a presentation that prioritizes vocals and everyday listening over aggressive, bass-heavy tuning. The headphones are aimed at general consumers rather than professional studio work.
Key Features & Specifications
The table below lists the specifications that the product name and manufacturer materials state. Where a detail is not confirmed in the listing, it has been left out rather than estimated.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen), Black |
| Type | Wireless, over-ear, closed-back |
| Noise Cancelling | Active noise cancelling |
| Microphone | Integrated mic for calls |
| Charging | USB-C |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 hours of playtime (per listing) |
| Audio | Lossless audio support; immersive audio feature |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Bluetooth) |
| Color | Black |
Manufacturers typically specify battery life under moderate volume with noise cancelling active, so real-world results will vary with volume level, temperature and how often you use ANC. Lossless audio support depends on your source device and app; check that your phone or streaming service supports the format before expecting it to play back.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Active noise cancelling suited to commutes, flights and open offices.
- USB-C charging matches most modern phones and laptops, so one cable can serve several devices.
- Listed battery life of up to 24 hours covers a long workday or several flights between charges.
- Integrated microphone supports calls and voice assistant use.
- Comfort-focused over-ear design that owners often describe as suitable for extended wear.
- Lossless audio and immersive audio options add flexibility for compatible sources.
Cons
- Over-ear, closed-back design is larger than in-ear earbuds and takes up more bag space.
- Noise cancelling is strong but not always as complete as the top-tier flagship models.
- Lossless and spatial features depend on compatible apps and devices, so benefits may be limited for some users.
- Some owners report that the clamping force feels firm during the first few days of wear.
- Sound tuning leans toward comfort and everyday listening rather than detailed reference-grade reproduction.
Performance Analysis
Noise cancelling is the main reason most people buy a model like this, so it deserves the most attention. Active noise cancelling works best on steady, low-frequency sounds such as engine rumble, HVAC hum and airplane cabin noise. Owners of QuietComfort-branded headphones commonly report that these low tones fade noticeably when ANC is on, while higher-pitched sounds like conversation or keyboard clicks are reduced less. That pattern is typical of the category, and it means the headphones are most effective on trains, buses and aircraft.
Battery life is a strength on paper. A listed figure of up to 24 hours gives a comfortable margin for a full workday or long-haul travel. In practice, owners tend to see shorter runtimes when they listen at high volume or keep ANC running continuously, so it is wise to plan around a conservative estimate. USB-C charging also makes it easier to top up from a laptop or power bank.
Sound quality is where expectations need calibrating. Bose tuning generally favors a balanced, approachable presentation with a bit of warmth in the low end. This suits podcasts, streaming playlists, video calls and most mainstream genres. Listeners who want precise detail, wide soundstage or strong sub-bass extension may find it less engaging than dedicated reference headphones. The lossless and immersive features add options, but their benefit depends heavily on the source files and the app you use.
Comfort and fit are generally well regarded in owner feedback for this family of headphones. The cushions and headband are designed for long sessions, although clamping force and ear pressure vary by head shape. If you wear glasses, a short adjustment period is common, and many owners say the fit settles after a few days of regular use.
Who Should Buy This Product?
This model suits people who want reliable noise cancelling, practical battery life and modern USB-C charging in a single over-ear pair. Frequent flyers, daily train commuters and anyone working in a loud office are typical good matches. It also fits buyers who prefer a comfortable, easy-to-live-with sound over technical tuning.
It is less suitable for people who need multipoint pairing with several devices switching automatically, for buyers who want the most advanced ANC and spatial processing available from Bose, or for those who prefer small, foldable headphones that slip into a jacket pocket. Audiophiles seeking reference-grade detail should look elsewhere.
Buying Guide
Before you buy, check a few things that matter more than headline features. First, confirm whether you need an over-ear design or whether earbuds would suit your routine better. Over-ear models usually offer more comfort over long sessions and stronger passive isolation, but they are bulkier. Second, look at your main device: if you use an older phone with a Lightning port, you will need an adapter or cable, since this model uses USB-C. Third, decide how much you value lossless and immersive features. If you mostly stream compressed audio, those options may matter less than ANC performance and comfort.
It also helps to compare against other well-known options in the same category. Some buyers consider the Bose QuietComfort Headphones in a different configuration, such as the variant below, which shares the same name family but may differ in listing details:
Bose QuietComfort Headphones – Wireless Bluetooth Headphones, Active Over Ear Noise Cancelling and Mic, USB-C Charging, Deep Bass, Up to 24 Hours of Playtime, Black
Buyers who prefer a refurbished unit can also review the renewed listing below, which is a lower-risk way to test the QuietComfort experience. Check the seller’s condition notes and return policy before purchasing:
Amazon Renewed QuietComfort Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones (Black) (Renewed)
For a broader comparison with a major competitor, read Bose Quietcomfort Headphones vs Sony Wh-1000xm5 (2026): Which Should You Choose? and Bose Quietcomfort Headphones vs Beats Studio Pro (2026): Which Should You Choose?. If you are shopping during sale periods, Headphones Bose Black Friday: How to Spot Real Deals on Bose Headphones explains how to judge whether a discount is genuine.
FAQ
Does the Bose QuietComfort Headphones 2nd Gen support multipoint Bluetooth?
The listing does not clearly state multipoint support, so do not assume it. Check the official Bose product documentation for the exact connection features before buying if you need to switch between two devices automatically.
How long does the battery last?
The listing states up to 24 hours of playtime. Actual runtime depends on volume, ANC use and temperature. Plan on a shorter real-world figure for heavy daily use.
Is this model good for flights?
Active noise cancelling is well suited to airplane cabin noise, which is dominated by low-frequency engine sound. Many owners use these headphones for long flights, though results vary by aircraft and seat position.
Does it charge with USB-C?
Yes, the listing specifies USB-C charging. You will need a USB-C cable and a compatible power source.
Can I use it for phone calls?
The headphones include an integrated microphone for calls and voice assistant use. Call quality depends on your environment, and wind or heavy background noise can reduce clarity.
Is lossless audio worth using?
Lossless audio only helps if your source files and streaming app support it, and if your connection and settings allow it. For compressed streams, the benefit may be small.
Should I buy a new or renewed unit?
A renewed unit can offer a lower-risk way to try the QuietComfort line, but check the seller’s condition grading, warranty terms and return policy. A new unit generally carries a full manufacturer warranty.
Final Verdict
The Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) in black make sense for commuters, travelers and office workers who want dependable noise cancelling, comfortable over-ear wear and USB-C convenience. The listed battery life and microphone add practical value for everyday use. They are not the right pick for buyers who need the most advanced multipoint features or reference-grade sound. Weigh your priorities, check the connection and feature details in the official documentation, and you will know quickly whether this pair fits your routine.
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.
