In the ever-evolving world of premium headphones, Bose has introduced a clever variation of their renowned Bose QuietComfort series – the QuietComfort SC. At $299.95 (marked down from $499.95), these headphones promise to deliver the same exceptional audio experience as the standard QuietComfort model, with one key difference: they come with a soft carrying case instead of a hard one. But do these headphones deliver enough value to justify their price tag? Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Key Features at a Glance
- Advanced Noise Cancellation: Combines active technology with passive features for comprehensive noise reduction
- Dual Listening Modes:
- Quiet Mode for full noise cancellation
- Aware Mode for environmental awareness
- Premium Audio Experience:
- High-fidelity audio playback
- Adjustable EQ with customizable bass, mid-range, and treble controls
- Extended Battery Performance:
- 24 hours of playback on a single charge
- Quick charge: 15 minutes for 2.5 hours of playback
- Versatile Connectivity:
- Bluetooth multipoint for seamless device switching
- Included audio cable with in-line microphone for wired use
- Continued functionality even when battery is depleted
- Superior Comfort:
- Plush earcup cushions
- Padded headband design
- Engineered for extended listening sessions
- Smart Features:
- Bose Music app integration
- Voice assistant compatibility
- SimpleSync for Bose soundbar pairing
Design and Comfort
The QuietComfort SC maintains Bose’s commitment to comfort-first design. Available only in black, these headphones feature protein leather ear cushions that provide a plush, comfortable seal around your ears. The minimal clamping force allows for hours of comfortable wear, while the rotating earcups ensure a uniform fit. At just 240g, they’re lightweight enough for extended listening sessions.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
Bose’s expertise in noise cancellation shines through with their sophisticated dual-system approach:
- Active noise cancellation using internal and external microphones
- Passive noise reduction through physical design and materials
The audio quality is impressive, featuring Bose’s TriPort acoustic architecture, which uses external ports to enhance acoustic volume without increasing the physical size of the earcups. The adjustable EQ allows you to either trust Bose’s automatic settings or customize the sound to your preferences through the Bose Music app.
Smart Features
The QuietComfort SC comes packed with practical features:
- Aware Mode for ambient sound pass-through
- Multi-point technology for connecting to two devices simultaneously
- Voice assistant compatibility
- Adaptive microphone system for clear calls
- SimpleSync for pairing with Bose soundbars
Battery Life and Charging
Battery performance is a strong point:
- 24 hours of playback with noise cancellation enabled
- 2.5 hours for a full charge
- Quick charge feature: 15 minutes for 4 hours of use
- Passive listening capability when battery is depleted
Controls and Connectivity
The control scheme is intuitive:
- Right earcup: Multi-function button for playback control and calls, plus volume buttons
- Left earcup: Action button for switching between modes and accessing shortcuts
- Bluetooth range of 30 feet (9 meters)
- Optional 3.5mm audio cable with inline mic
What’s in the Box
- Bose QuietComfort SC Headphones
- Soft carry case
- USB-C charging cable (12″)
- 3.5mm to 2.5mm audio cable
- Safety sheet
Pros
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Premium sound quality
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Impressive battery life
- Versatile connectivity options
- Competitive price point
Cons
- Only available in black
- Soft case instead of hard case
- Not suitable for gaming due to audio latency
- No water resistance rating mentioned
Value Proposition
At $299.95 (reduced from $499.95), the QuietComfort SC represents an interesting value proposition. You’re essentially getting the same premium headphones as the standard QuietComfort model, just with a soft case instead of a hard one. For many users, this trade-off will be worth the savings.
Final Verdict
The Bose QuietComfort SC headphones deliver exactly what many users want: premium sound quality, excellent noise cancellation, and comfortable design at a more accessible price point. While the soft case might be a downgrade for some, the core functionality remains unchanged from its more expensive sibling.
These headphones are ideal for:
- Frequent travelers
- Office workers
- Music enthusiasts
- Anyone seeking high-quality noise cancellation
They might not be the best choice for:
- Gamers (due to latency)
- Those needing weather-resistant headphones
- Users who prefer a hard carrying case
Rating: 4.5/5
The Bose QuietComfort SC headphones prove that sometimes less is more. By simply switching to a soft case, Bose has made their premium audio experience more accessible without compromising on the features that matter most. If you can live without a hard case, these headphones offer exceptional value in the premium headphone market.
Review based on technical specifications and product documentation. Prices and availability subject to change.
