Bose QuietComfort 20 Quick Review

Bose is known for premium audio products. They have been manufacturing products with great performance and quality since 1964. Now in 2014, let’s have a quick look at the QuietComfort 20, the first in-ear noise cancelling headphones from Bose.

This noise-cancelling headphones have the looks to appease stylish users and it also can satisfy demanding users. At first glance, the QuietComfort 20 has the design of most Bose headphones in the market today.

There are two things I really liked about this pair of headphones, the comfort and its noise-cancelling performance.

If there is anything perfect about it, is its StayHear+ ear tips. The most comfortable in-ear buds around. Not only that, it also holds its position in your ear while walking or just lying on the couch.

Also, the noise cancelling performance is top-notch. It works great both indoor and outdoor. If you wish to focus on the music, just turn it on. This is real noise cancelling. I’ve tried it first in a crowded mall and it felt wonderful to isolate yourself from the chattering while waiting for someone. You can also have a peaceful MRT and bus rides.

When it comes to sound quality, I can safely say that it delivers. The bass quality is not as deep as I wish it to be but the highs and mids are pretty good. Making it a suitable all-around headphone for most genre. Though, the volume level depends on where it is plugged in.

Bose included a neat button that is placed with the inline microphone and remote. It deactivates the noise cancelling feature and puts you into “aware mode” whenever you need to hear what’s around you. There’s no need to remove your headphones, just click it and re-click when you’re done.

All of these are powered by a slim rechargeable battery near the bottom end of the headphone. This is also where you can find the main switch for power and noise cancelling. It charges with the use of a micro-USB cable which is kindly included in addition to the soft pouch for travelling and easy storage.

The Bose QuietComfort 20 retails for Php17,000USD 290INR 24,558EUR 276CNY 2,110. Pricing might be steep but the quality and overall experience will be worth the extra buck.

Editor’s note: The review unit we have is the version that works well for Android, BlackBerry, and Windows Phone. There is a Bose QuietComfort 20i for the iPhone, iPod, and iPad.