When it comes to noise-cancelling headphones, Bose is a name that instantly comes to mind. The company has been a pioneer in this technology, and its QuietComfort series has been a benchmark for excellence. Two of the most popular models in this series are the Bose QuietComfort 25 (QC25) and the Bose QuietComfort 35 (QC35). While both headphones share some similarities, there are significant differences between them. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of each model and explore the key differences to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the QC25 and QC35 have a sleek and sturdy design that exudes premium quality. However, there are some subtle differences in their build and design.
The QC25 has a more angular design with a silver or black finish, while the QC35 has a more rounded design with a silver or black finish. The QC35 also has a more premium feel to it, thanks to its stainless steel headband and glass-filled nylon earcups.
In terms of weight, the QC25 is slightly lighter, weighing in at 196 grams, while the QC35 weighs 234 grams. However, both headphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to their cushioned earcups and adjustable headbands.
Materials Used
The materials used in the construction of the headphones also differ. The QC25 has a more plastic-heavy construction, while the QC35 uses more premium materials like stainless steel and glass-filled nylon. This gives the QC35 a more solid and durable feel.
Sound Quality
Both the QC25 and QC35 are known for their excellent sound quality, but there are some differences in their audio performance.
The QC25 has a more balanced sound signature, with clear highs and deep bass. However, some users have reported that the sound can be a bit too bright and lacking in bass.
The QC35, on the other hand, has a more neutral sound signature, with a focus on accuracy and detail. The bass response is also more pronounced, making it a better choice for bass lovers.
Driver Size
The driver size of the headphones also differs. The QC25 has 40mm drivers, while the QC35 has 40mm drivers as well. However, the QC35’s drivers are more efficient and have a higher impedance, which results in better sound quality.
Noise Cancellation
Both the QC25 and QC35 have excellent noise-cancelling capabilities, but the QC35 has a more advanced noise-cancellation system.
The QC25 uses Bose’s proprietary noise-cancellation technology, which uses one microphone to detect ambient noise and another microphone to monitor the sound in your ear. This results in excellent noise-cancellation, but it can be affected by wind noise.
The QC35, on the other hand, uses a more advanced noise-cancellation system that uses two microphones to detect ambient noise and another microphone to monitor the sound in your ear. This results in even better noise-cancellation, and it’s less affected by wind noise.
Noise-Cancellation Modes
The QC35 also has three noise-cancellation modes, while the QC25 only has one. The QC35’s modes include:
- Low: This mode is designed for quiet environments, such as libraries or offices.
- Medium: This mode is designed for noisy environments, such as public transportation or busy streets.
- High: This mode is designed for extremely noisy environments, such as construction sites or airports.
Wireless Connectivity
The QC35 is a wireless headphone, while the QC25 is a wired headphone. The QC35 uses Bluetooth 4.1 technology to connect to your device, and it has a range of up to 30 feet.
The QC35 also has a feature called Volume-Optimized EQ, which adjusts the sound quality based on the volume level. This results in consistent sound quality, even at low volumes.
Battery Life
The QC35 has a battery life of up to 24 hours, while the QC25 does not have a battery life since it’s a wired headphone.
The QC35 also has a feature called Quick Charge, which gives you 2.5 hours of battery life with just 15 minutes of charging.
Additional Features
The QC35 has several additional features that the QC25 does not have. These include:
- Customizable Noise Cancellation: This feature allows you to customize the noise-cancellation settings to your preferences.
- Customizable EQ: This feature allows you to customize the sound quality to your preferences.
- Google Assistant Integration: This feature allows you to access Google Assistant with just the press of a button.
Button Layout
The button layout of the headphones also differs. The QC25 has a simple button layout with a power button, volume buttons, and a noise-cancellation button. The QC35 has a more complex button layout with a power button, volume buttons, a noise-cancellation button, and a button to access Google Assistant.
Price
The price of the headphones also differs. The QC25 is generally cheaper, with a price range of around $200-$300. The QC35 is more expensive, with a price range of around $300-$400.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both the Bose QuietComfort 25 and 35 are excellent noise-cancelling headphones, there are significant differences between them. The QC35 has a more premium design, better sound quality, and more advanced noise-cancellation capabilities. It also has several additional features, such as customizable noise cancellation and Google Assistant integration.
However, the QC25 is still a great choice for those on a budget or who prefer a wired headphone. It has excellent sound quality and noise-cancelling capabilities, and it’s generally cheaper than the QC35.
Ultimately, the choice between the QC25 and QC35 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you want a more premium headphone with advanced features, the QC35 is the better choice. But if you’re on a budget or prefer a wired headphone, the QC25 is still a great option.
| Feature | Bose QuietComfort 25 | Bose QuietComfort 35 |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Angular design with silver or black finish | Rounded design with silver or black finish |
| Weight | 196 grams | 234 grams |
| Sound Quality | Balanced sound signature with clear highs and deep bass | Neutral sound signature with a focus on accuracy and detail |
| Noise Cancellation | Excellent noise-cancellation, but can be affected by wind noise | Advanced noise-cancellation system with three modes |
| Wireless Connectivity | None | Bluetooth 4.1 technology with a range of up to 30 feet |
| Battery Life | None | Up to 24 hours, with Quick Charge feature |
| Additional Features | None | Customizable noise cancellation, customizable EQ, Google Assistant integration |
| Price | Around $200-$300 | Around $300-$400 |
We hope this article has helped you understand the differences between the Bose QuietComfort 25 and 35. Whether you choose the QC25 or QC35, you can’t go wrong with either of these excellent noise-cancelling headphones.
What are the main differences between Bose QuietComfort 25 and 35?
The main differences between Bose QuietComfort 25 and 35 lie in their design, features, and functionality. The QuietComfort 35 is a wireless headphone, whereas the QuietComfort 25 requires a wired connection. Additionally, the QuietComfort 35 has a more advanced noise-cancellation system and longer battery life.
The QuietComfort 35 also features volume-optimized EQ, which ensures that the sound quality remains consistent across different volume levels. In contrast, the QuietComfort 25 does not have this feature. Furthermore, the QuietComfort 35 has a more modern design with a sleeker and more compact frame, making it more portable and convenient to use.
Which headphone has better noise-cancellation?
The Bose QuietComfort 35 has a more advanced noise-cancellation system compared to the QuietComfort 25. The QuietComfort 35 features dual-microphone technology, which helps to better capture and eliminate ambient noise. Additionally, the QuietComfort 35 has a more sophisticated noise-cancellation algorithm that adapts to different environments and noise levels.
In contrast, the QuietComfort 25 has a more basic noise-cancellation system that relies on a single microphone. While it is still effective in reducing ambient noise, it may not be as effective as the QuietComfort 35 in very noisy environments. However, the QuietComfort 25 is still a great option for those who want a reliable noise-cancellation system without the need for advanced features.
Do both headphones have the same sound quality?
Both the Bose QuietComfort 25 and 35 have excellent sound quality, but there are some differences. The QuietComfort 35 has a more balanced sound signature with deeper bass and clearer highs. The QuietComfort 25, on the other hand, has a slightly warmer sound signature with more emphasis on mid-range frequencies.
However, the difference in sound quality is relatively subtle, and both headphones are capable of producing high-quality audio. The QuietComfort 35’s sound quality is slightly more refined, but the QuietComfort 25 is still a great option for those who want excellent sound quality without the need for advanced features.
Can I use both headphones for phone calls?
Yes, both the Bose QuietComfort 25 and 35 can be used for phone calls. However, the QuietComfort 35 has a more advanced microphone system that is designed specifically for phone calls. The QuietComfort 35 features a dual-microphone system that helps to reduce wind noise and improve call clarity.
In contrast, the QuietComfort 25 has a single microphone that is still effective for phone calls, but may not be as clear as the QuietComfort 35. Additionally, the QuietComfort 35 has a feature called “sidetone” that allows you to hear your own voice during phone calls, which can help to improve call quality.
How long does the battery last on both headphones?
The Bose QuietComfort 35 has a longer battery life compared to the QuietComfort 25. The QuietComfort 35 can last up to 24 hours on a single charge, while the QuietComfort 25 can last up to 15 hours. However, it’s worth noting that the QuietComfort 25 is a wired headphone, so it doesn’t require a battery to function.
The QuietComfort 35’s longer battery life makes it a great option for those who want a wireless headphone that can last all day. However, the QuietComfort 25 is still a great option for those who prefer a wired connection and don’t need advanced features like wireless connectivity.
Are both headphones comfortable to wear?
Yes, both the Bose QuietComfort 25 and 35 are comfortable to wear. However, the QuietComfort 35 has a more ergonomic design that is designed to fit comfortably around your ears. The QuietComfort 35 also features a more cushioned headband and earcups that help to reduce pressure and discomfort.
The QuietComfort 25 is also comfortable to wear, but it may not be as comfortable as the QuietComfort 35 for extended periods of time. The QuietComfort 25 has a slightly tighter fit and less cushioning, which can cause discomfort after several hours of wear.
Which headphone is more portable?
The Bose QuietComfort 35 is more portable compared to the QuietComfort 25. The QuietComfort 35 has a more compact design that folds up neatly, making it easy to store in a bag or backpack. The QuietComfort 35 also weighs less than the QuietComfort 25, making it easier to carry around.
In contrast, the QuietComfort 25 has a bulkier design that doesn’t fold up as neatly. While it’s still possible to store the QuietComfort 25 in a bag or backpack, it may take up more space than the QuietComfort 35. However, the QuietComfort 25 is still a great option for those who want a reliable noise-cancellation system without the need for advanced features.