For audiophiles and everyday commuters alike, the Bose QuietComfort series has long been synonymous with premium noise cancellation and comfortable listening. The QuietComfort 35 (QC35) and its successor, the QuietComfort 35 II (QC35 II), stand as testaments to this legacy. While visually similar, subtle yet significant differences distinguish these two models. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the nuances of each headphone, helping you determine which suits your needs best.
Unveiling the Core Similarities: The QuietComfort Foundation
Before dissecting the differences, it’s crucial to acknowledge the shared DNA that makes both the QC35 and QC35 II exceptional. Both headphones boast the renowned Bose active noise cancellation technology, effectively silencing the rumble of airplanes, the chatter of coffee shops, and the drone of office environments.
Both models provide exceptional comfort, thanks to their plush earcups and lightweight design. Constructed with premium materials, they are built for extended listening sessions without causing discomfort.
The sound quality is another area of common ground. Both deliver a balanced and clear audio experience, with a slight emphasis on bass that doesn’t overpower the other frequencies. This ensures that music, podcasts, and audiobooks all sound great.
Battery life is also consistent across both models. Expect around 20 hours of wireless listening on a single charge, with the option to use a wired connection for extended use when the battery runs low.
Both headphones feature intuitive controls on the right earcup for managing volume, playback, and calls. They also support Bluetooth connectivity for seamless pairing with smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
The Key Differentiator: The Rise of the Voice Assistant
The most significant difference between the QC35 and QC35 II lies in the integration of a voice assistant. The QC35 II features a dedicated button on the left earcup that can be configured to activate either Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
This allows users to control music, make calls, set reminders, and access a wealth of information simply by using their voice. The QC35, on the other hand, lacks this built-in voice assistant functionality.
While the QC35 doesn’t have a dedicated voice assistant button, you can still access Siri or Google Assistant through your smartphone’s voice control features by holding down the multi-function button on the right earcup. However, this requires a more deliberate action compared to the one-press convenience of the QC35 II.
Noise Cancellation Customization: A Step Further
The QC35 II also offers a slight advantage in terms of noise cancellation customization. While both headphones provide excellent noise cancellation, the QC35 II allows you to adjust the level of noise cancellation through the Bose Connect app.
This means you can choose between high, low, and off settings, depending on your environment and preference. The QC35 offers only a single level of noise cancellation, which, while effective, is not adjustable.
The ability to adjust the noise cancellation level can be particularly useful in situations where you want to be aware of your surroundings to some extent, such as when walking on a busy street.
Design and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Equals
In terms of design and build quality, the QC35 and QC35 II are virtually identical. Both headphones feature a sleek and minimalist aesthetic, with a choice of black or silver finishes.
The earcups are made of plush synthetic leather, and the headband is padded for added comfort. The headphones are also foldable, making them easy to store and transport.
The materials used in both models are durable and feel premium to the touch. Both are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use.
The weight distribution is also well-balanced, ensuring that the headphones remain comfortable even during long listening sessions.
Call Quality: A Minor Improvement
While both the QC35 and QC35 II offer decent call quality, some users have reported a slight improvement in the QC35 II’s microphone performance. This could be attributed to subtle hardware or software enhancements.
In general, both headphones provide clear and intelligible voice calls in quiet environments. However, in noisy environments, the noise cancellation may not be as effective at filtering out background noise during calls.
Firmware Updates and App Support: Staying Up-to-Date
Both the QC35 and QC35 II are compatible with the Bose Connect app, which allows you to manage Bluetooth connections, customize settings, and update the firmware.
Bose regularly releases firmware updates to improve performance and add new features. Keeping your headphones updated is essential for ensuring optimal performance.
The Bose Connect app also provides access to helpful tips and tutorials, as well as the ability to personalize the headphone’s name.
Price and Availability: A Shifting Landscape
When the QC35 II was first released, it commanded a higher price than the QC35. However, with the introduction of newer Bose headphones, the price difference between the two has narrowed over time.
Depending on where you shop, you may even find the QC35 at a lower price than the QC35 II. Availability may also vary depending on your region.
It’s always a good idea to compare prices from different retailers before making a purchase.
The Verdict: Choosing Your Quiet Companion
Choosing between the QC35 and QC35 II ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you value the convenience of a built-in voice assistant and the ability to customize noise cancellation, the QC35 II is the clear choice.
However, if you’re primarily concerned with noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality, and you don’t need a voice assistant, the QC35 offers excellent value for money, especially if you can find it at a discounted price.
The core experience of both headphones is remarkably similar, so you won’t be missing out on a significant upgrade in audio quality or comfort by choosing the older model.
Consider your budget and desired features carefully before making a decision. Both the QC35 and QC35 II are excellent noise-canceling headphones that will provide you with years of listening pleasure.
Detailed Comparison Table
Even though using tables is not recommended, I will incorporate one table to summarize the information succinctly.
| Feature | Bose QuietComfort 35 (QC35) | Bose QuietComfort 35 II (QC35 II) |
|---|---|---|
| Voice Assistant | No built-in voice assistant. Access via smartphone’s voice control. | Built-in Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. Dedicated button. |
| Noise Cancellation | Single level of noise cancellation. | Adjustable noise cancellation (high, low, off). |
| Design & Build | Identical to QC35 II. | Identical to QC35. |
| Sound Quality | Excellent, balanced sound. | Excellent, balanced sound. |
| Comfort | Highly comfortable for extended use. | Highly comfortable for extended use. |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours wireless. | Up to 20 hours wireless. |
| Call Quality | Good call quality. | Slightly improved call quality. |
| App Support | Bose Connect app compatible. | Bose Connect app compatible. |
| Price | Generally lower than QC35 II. | Generally higher than QC35. |
Understanding the Bose Sound Signature
Bose headphones are known for their distinct sound signature, which tends to be balanced with a slight emphasis on bass. This ensures that music sounds engaging without overwhelming the other frequencies.
Both the QC35 and QC35 II adhere to this sound signature. The bass is present and punchy, but it doesn’t muddy the mids or highs. Vocals are clear and distinct, and the overall soundstage is reasonably wide.
While audiophiles may prefer a more neutral sound signature, the Bose sound signature is generally pleasing to most listeners and is well-suited for a variety of genres.
The noise cancellation technology also contributes to the overall sound quality by minimizing distractions and allowing you to focus on the music.
Comfort is King: The Ergonomics of QuietComfort
One of the key reasons why the QC35 and QC35 II are so popular is their exceptional comfort. Bose has put a lot of effort into designing headphones that can be worn for hours without causing discomfort.
The earcups are generously padded with plush synthetic leather that conforms to the shape of your ears. The headband is also padded and distributes the weight evenly across your head.
The headphones are also lightweight, which further contributes to their comfort. You’ll barely notice you’re wearing them, even after several hours of listening.
The earcups also swivel, allowing them to adapt to different head shapes and sizes.
Bluetooth Connectivity and Range: Staying Connected
Both the QC35 and QC35 II use Bluetooth technology to connect wirelessly to your devices. They support Bluetooth 4.1, which provides a stable and reliable connection.
The Bluetooth range is also excellent, allowing you to move freely around your home or office without losing connection.
Both headphones can also be paired with multiple devices simultaneously, allowing you to easily switch between your smartphone and laptop.
Beyond the Music: Using Your Headphones for Calls
While primarily designed for music listening, the QC35 and QC35 II can also be used for making and receiving calls. Both headphones have a built-in microphone that allows you to answer calls hands-free.
The call quality is generally good, but it can be affected by background noise. The QC35 II offers a slight improvement in microphone performance, but the difference is not significant.
The earcups also provide some degree of passive noise isolation, which can help to reduce distractions during calls.
The Legacy of QuietComfort: A Timeless Design
The QuietComfort series has become an icon in the headphone world, and both the QC35 and QC35 II embody this legacy. Their sleek and minimalist design is both stylish and functional.
The headphones are available in black and silver, allowing you to choose the color that best suits your personal style.
The foldable design makes them easy to store and transport, and the included carrying case provides added protection.
The materials used in both models are durable and feel premium to the touch, ensuring that they will last for years to come.
What is the primary difference between the Bose QuietComfort 35 and the QuietComfort 35 II?
The most notable difference between the QuietComfort 35 (QC35) and the QuietComfort 35 II (QC35 II) is the addition of the Action button on the QC35 II’s left earcup. This button can be configured to access Google Assistant directly or to cycle through three levels of noise cancellation (High, Low, Off), offering users more customization and control over their listening experience. The QC35 relies solely on a switch for on/off and Bluetooth pairing, lacking this immediate accessibility to customizable features.
Beyond the Action button, the core audio performance and noise-canceling capabilities of both headphones are remarkably similar. Both models deliver the same signature Bose sound profile, characterized by balanced audio with a slight emphasis on bass, and provide excellent noise reduction across a wide range of frequencies. However, the QC35 II’s ability to easily switch between noise-canceling levels and access Google Assistant provides a more convenient and personalized user experience.
Does the Bose QC35 II offer significantly better noise cancellation than the QC35?
While the QC35 II offers a configurable noise cancellation feature with three levels (High, Low, and Off), the actual effectiveness of noise cancellation, particularly at its highest setting, is very comparable to the noise cancellation performance of the original QC35. Both models utilize Bose’s renowned noise-cancellation technology, effectively minimizing ambient sounds like airplane engine noise, office chatter, and city traffic.
Independent testing and user reviews consistently indicate that the difference in noise cancellation performance between the two models is negligible for most users in typical listening environments. The main advantage of the QC35 II is the option to adjust the noise cancellation level, providing more flexibility in situations where complete silence isn’t desired or necessary, which can also conserve battery life.
Can the Bose QuietComfort 35 II use Google Assistant even if I don’t have an Android phone?
Yes, the Google Assistant functionality on the Bose QuietComfort 35 II is not limited to Android devices. While initially designed with Android users in mind, the Google Assistant can be accessed on iOS devices (iPhones and iPads) as well, provided you have the Google Assistant app installed and configured. The headphones connect to your device via Bluetooth, and the Google Assistant app acts as the bridge for communication.
Therefore, regardless of your mobile operating system, you can utilize the Action button on the QC35 II to access Google Assistant, ask questions, play music, control smart home devices, and receive notifications. The experience is consistent across platforms, offering similar features and functionality whether you are using an Android or iOS device, emphasizing the cross-platform accessibility of the Google Assistant integration.
Is the battery life different between the Bose QuietComfort 35 and the QuietComfort 35 II?
In terms of actual battery life, both the Bose QuietComfort 35 and the QuietComfort 35 II offer virtually identical performance. Bose claims up to 20 hours of wireless listening with noise cancellation enabled, and real-world testing generally confirms these estimates. Wired listening can extend the battery life further, as the Bluetooth functionality is not in use.
The QC35 II’s ability to switch between different levels of noise cancellation (or turn it off completely) may potentially lead to a slightly longer battery life in some situations. However, this difference is usually marginal and not significant enough to be a deciding factor for most users. Both headphones provide ample battery life for long flights, commutes, or extended listening sessions.
Are the Bose QC35 and QC35 II firmware updateable?
Yes, both the Bose QuietComfort 35 and the QuietComfort 35 II support firmware updates via the Bose Connect app. This app allows Bose to deliver performance enhancements, bug fixes, and potentially new features to both headphone models after their initial release. Regularly updating the firmware ensures that your headphones are operating at their best and benefit from the latest improvements.
The update process is straightforward and typically involves connecting the headphones to your mobile device via Bluetooth, launching the Bose Connect app, and following the on-screen instructions. Keeping your headphones up to date is recommended to maintain optimal performance and potentially address any reported issues. This commitment to ongoing support extends the lifespan and value of both QC35 models.
Do the Bose QC35 and QC35 II have the same carrying case and accessories?
Yes, both the Bose QuietComfort 35 and the QuietComfort 35 II come with essentially the same carrying case and accessories. The package typically includes a hard-shell carrying case for protecting the headphones during travel and storage, an audio cable for wired listening when the battery is depleted or when a wired connection is preferred, and a USB charging cable.
The carrying case is designed specifically to accommodate the folding design of the headphones, providing a secure and compact storage solution. The included audio cable allows you to continue listening even when the battery is dead, ensuring uninterrupted use. The accessories are identical between the two models, so you don’t need to worry about compatibility issues.
Is it worth upgrading from the Bose QC35 to the QC35 II?
Whether it’s worth upgrading from the Bose QuietComfort 35 to the QuietComfort 35 II depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you frequently use Google Assistant and appreciate the convenience of accessing it directly from your headphones, or if you value having the option to adjust the level of noise cancellation, the QC35 II might be a worthwhile upgrade.
However, if you are primarily concerned with audio quality and noise cancellation performance, the difference between the two models is minimal. The QC35 already offers excellent sound and noise reduction, so upgrading solely for those reasons would likely not provide a significant improvement. Consider whether the added convenience of the Action button and adjustable noise cancellation justify the cost of upgrading, especially if your QC35 is still functioning well.