Bose QuietComfort 45 & 45 Se share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as sound quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Bose QuietComfort 45 Se rather than the Bose QuietComfort 45.
Why Do I Recommend The Bose QuietComfort 45 Se?
- The QuietComfort 45 Se steps up with an Integrated Processor, which supports high-resolution audio & provides more refined sound with clearer details, while the QC 45 provides Balanced audio.
- It introduces an improved Auto Noise Cancellation Optimizer that better adapts to environmental changes; on the other hand, the Bose QuietComfort 45 has noise cancellation as well, but it’s more static.
- It comes with a soft case, which offers protection against dust. In contrast, the QuietComfort 45 includes a hard case.
- QuietComfort 45 SE supports wireless charging for more flexibility. In contrast, the QC 45 supports wired charging only.
- QC 45 SE has an IPX4 rating, making it resistant to water and sweat for workouts and outdoor activities, while the QC 45 lacks water resistance.
- It has AAC to ensure a more stable connection, improved range, and potentially lower latency than the QC 45.
- Bose QuietComfort 45 Se adopts a sleeker, modern design with a slim profile that aims to enhance durability, but the Bose QuietComfort 45 sticks with a more classic design.
Maybe the Bose QuietComfort 45 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Bose QuietComfort 45 Se. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
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Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Bose QuietComfort 45 Se | Bose QuietComfort 45 |
| Carrying Case | Soft case | Hard case |
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | High-quality ANC technology | ANC technology |
| Sound Profile | Balanced sound signature tailored for clear vocals, rich bass, and minimal distortion. | Clear and balanced sound |
| Comfort and Design | Lightweight and over-ear design | Lightweight |
| Controls and Ease of Use | Buttons for volume, playback, and ANC toggling | Minor refinements for ease of use |
| Color Options | Triple Black | Black |
| Price | Check QC 45 SE Price | Check QC 45 Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- Sound Quality: Bose’s signature balanced sound is a defining feature for both models, delivering detailed highs, mids, and rich bass. This sound quality is tuned to deliver an immersive experience for music lovers and those who prioritize audio clarity. This identical tuning profile ensures that both models provide a similar audio experience across all types of content, from music to podcasts.
- Comfort and Design: Designed with user comfort in mind, both the QuietComfort SE and QC45 feature lightweight frames and plush ear cushions. This combination minimizes pressure on the ears, allowing for prolonged listening sessions without discomfort. The comfortable fit is ideal for long flights or extended wear, making these headphones suitable for various lifestyle needs.
- Battery Life & Fast Charging: Both models offer up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, catering to users who need all-day playback. With a fast-charging feature that provides an additional 3 hours of playback from just 15 minutes of charging, these headphones are practical for those with busy or travel-heavy schedules. The fast-charge option is especially useful for quick top-ups during short breaks.
- Microphone and Call Quality: With dual-microphone arrays, both models are equipped for clear call quality, reducing background noise for optimal voice pickup. This feature is useful for users who frequently take calls or join online meetings in varying environments, ensuring clear communication for both ends of the conversation.
- Physical Controls: Both models feature tactile button controls, offering straightforward functionality without the need for touch-sensitive surfaces. This design ensures ease of use, as users can control volume, playback, and ANC settings intuitively, even while wearing gloves or in less ideal conditions.
- Bluetooth 5.1: Bluetooth 5.1 technology provides a stable wireless connection across both models, supporting reliable pairing and low-latency performance. This connectivity is advantageous for video streaming or gaming, where audio synchronization is crucial.
- Bose Music App Compatibility: Both models are compatible with the Bose Music App, enhancing functionality with access to customization options like ANC levels, Bluetooth management, and firmware updates. This app support allows users to tailor their listening experience while keeping the headphones up to date with the latest software.
- Voice Assistant Integration: With support for popular voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant, both the SE and QC45 enable hands-free control, which is useful for managing tasks on the go. This feature enhances convenience, as users can access information or control their devices without reaching for their phone.
- Build Quality: Both models are made from durable materials designed for daily use, ensuring longevity. This build quality gives users confidence in the headphones’ ability to withstand minor impacts and regular wear, making them a dependable choice for long-term use.
Common Features
| Feature | Bose QuietComfort 45 Se | Bose QuietComfort 45 |
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Advanced ANC technology for immersive sound isolation | Advanced ANC technology for immersive sound isolation |
| Sound Quality | Balanced sound signature with clear highs, mids, and deep bass | Balanced sound signature with clear highs, mids, and deep bass |
| Comfort and Design | Lightweight, over-ear design with plush ear cushions | Lightweight, over-ear design with plush ear cushions |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 hours on a single charge | Up to 24 hours on a single charge |
| Fast Charging | 15-minute charge for up to 3 hours of playback | 15-minute charge for up to 3 hours of playback |
| Microphone System | Dual-microphone array for clear calls | Dual-microphone array for clear calls |
| Controls | Physical buttons for volume, playback, and ANC control | Physical buttons for volume, playback, and ANC control |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 for stable wireless connection | Bluetooth 5.1 for stable wireless connection |
| Bose Music App Compatibility | Compatible with the Bose Music App for customization | Compatible with the Bose Music App for customization |
| Voice Assistant Access | Supports voice assistants (e.g., Google Assistant, Siri) | Supports voice assistants (e.g., Google Assistant, Siri) |
| Build Quality | Durable and high-quality materials for everyday use | Durable and high-quality materials for everyday use |
| Price | Check QC 45 Se Price | Check QC 45 Price |
FAQ
| Are the Bose QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45 headphones identical in terms of sound quality? Yes, both the QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45 offer the same sound quality. They share a balanced audio profile that provides clear highs, full mids, and rich bass, delivering Bose’s signature sound quality. This makes them ideal for listening to music, podcasts, movies, and other audio content with an immersive, high-quality experience. Do the QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45 have the same active noise cancellation (ANC) technology? Yes, both models use Bose’s advanced ANC technology. This feature effectively minimizes ambient noise across various environments, including busy streets and flights. The ANC technology in both models allows users to enjoy uninterrupted audio even in noisy settings, providing an immersive listening experience. How do the QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45 differ in terms of case type? The QuietComfort SE comes with a soft carrying case, which is lightweight and easier to store in tight spaces. The QuietComfort 45, however, includes a hard case that provides additional protection from impacts and wear, making it more suitable for frequent travelers who need a sturdier case. Is there a difference in battery life between the QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45? No, both the QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45 offer up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge. Additionally, both models support fast charging, allowing users to get up to 3 hours of playback from just a 15-minute charge, which is ideal for quick top-ups during busy days. Are both models compatible with the Bose Music App? Yes, both the QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45 are compatible with the Bose Music App. This app provides users with customization options for ANC levels, Bluetooth management, and firmware updates. It allows for a more tailored listening experience and easier control over the headphones’ settings. What are the color options available for the QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45? The QuietComfort SE is only available in Triple Black, while the QuietComfort 45 offers more variety with options including Black, White Smoke, Eclipse Grey, and Midnight Blue. This additional color variety in the QC45 caters to users who may want a broader range of style options. Is the QuietComfort 45 easier to find in retail stores compared to the QuietComfort SE? Yes, the QuietComfort 45 is more widely available across various retail platforms and Bose’s official website. In contrast, the QuietComfort SE is sold exclusively through select retailers such as Sam’s Club and Costco, which may limit its availability to specific regions or customers with memberships at these stores. Do both models support voice assistant access? Yes, both the QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45 provide hands-free access to voice assistants like Google Assistant and Siri. This feature allows users to control their playback, make calls, and send messages without directly handling their devices, offering added convenience for multitasking. What type of Bluetooth connectivity do the QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45 use? Both models use Bluetooth 5.1, which provides a stable and reliable wireless connection with a strong range. This Bluetooth version enhances the pairing process, reduces latency, and ensures consistent connectivity, making it suitable for various activities, including streaming and gaming. Are the QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45 suitable for long listening sessions? Yes, both models are designed for comfort during extended listening sessions. They feature lightweight builds and soft ear cushions that minimize pressure on the ears, making them ideal for users who wear headphones for hours at a time. The ergonomic design reduces ear fatigue, making both the SE and QC45 well-suited for long-term wear. Do both models offer the same build quality and durability? Yes, both the QuietComfort SE and QuietComfort 45 are constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability for everyday use. These materials allow the headphones to withstand minor impacts and regular wear, making both models reliable for long-term ownership. Which model is generally more affordable, the QuietComfort SE or the QuietComfort 45? The QuietComfort SE is often more budget-friendly due to its retailer exclusivity and is typically available at a lower price than the QuietComfort 45. However, prices can vary based on promotions, membership discounts, and regional availability. |
