Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) sound great, but TechRadar review urges waiting

TechRadar’s Tom Bedford says the Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) sound excellent and remain comfortable during long listening sessions, but questions whether they justify their premium price.

The headphones were announced on August 6, 2026, three years after the first-generation model launched and one year after the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Gen 2. They cost $359, £299 or AU$549.99, compared with launch prices of $449, £449 and AU$699 for the Ultra Gen 2.

The review found the Active Noise Cancellation effective but not class-leading after testing on flights, trains and in several cities. Competing headphones sometimes handled background noise better. Bedford also noted a rattling feel, gaps in the body and fewer features than expected at this price.

Sound quality was the strongest point. The headphones delivered detailed treble, energetic bass and convincing spatial audio, although the equalizer offered limited control. Battery life is 24 hours with ANC enabled, and other tested options lasted 100 extra hours. Bose says USB-C charging takes 3 hours; the same port also supports wired audio.

The headphones come in five colors: black, white, mauve, mint and green. The four-star review said the model would be more compelling at a discount.