Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones Review (White Smoke, Refurbished)
When it comes to premium noise cancelling headphones, the Bose QuietComfort Wireless Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones are a top contender. Famous for their industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC) and balanced sound, these headphones are designed for both casual listening and professional use.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the design, comfort, sound quality, battery performance, and key features of the Bose QuietComfort (White Smoke, refurbished edition) to see if they’re worth buying in 2025.
Design & Build Quality
The White Smoke colorway gives the Bose QuietComfort headphones a clean, modern, and elegant look. The over-ear design provides full ear coverage, which not only improves comfort but also enhances passive noise isolation.
Even though this is a refurbished model, Bose maintains strict quality standards, so the build feels solid and reliable. The earcups are made with plush cushions, and the lightweight frame ensures comfort for long hours of listening, whether you’re on a flight, working at home, or studying in a café.
Sound Quality
Bose is known for delivering a balanced, clear, and natural sound profile—quite different from bass-heavy competitors like Beats. The QuietComfort headphones offer:
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Deep, controlled bass without overpowering other frequencies
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Clean mids for vocals and instruments
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Crisp highs for detail and clarity
This makes them perfect for a wide range of music genres, from jazz and classical to pop and hip-hop. Movies and podcasts also sound immersive, thanks to Bose’s tuning.
Noise Cancelling Performance
The biggest strength of the Bose QuietComfort Wireless Headphones is their Active Noise Cancelling technology. Bose has been a leader in ANC for years, and this model continues the tradition.
Whether you’re on a plane, commuting in a noisy city, or working in a busy office, the headphones do an excellent job of blocking out background noise. You can also switch to Aware Mode, which lets in ambient sounds so you can stay aware of your surroundings when needed.
Battery Life
The Bose QuietComfort headphones deliver up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge. While not as long-lasting as some competitors (like Beats Solo 4 at 50 hours), it’s more than enough for daily use or long travel days.
With a quick charge feature, just 15 minutes of charging provides up to 2.5 hours of playback—perfect when you need a fast top-up before heading out.
Connectivity & Features
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Bluetooth 5.1 ensures stable, fast connections with both iOS and Android devices
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Multi-point connection lets you pair with two devices at once (e.g., your laptop and smartphone)
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Customizable settings via the Bose Music App (EQ adjustments, noise cancelling levels)
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Built-in microphones for crystal-clear phone calls and virtual meetings
Refurbished Value
Buying the refurbished White Smoke version is a smart way to save money without sacrificing performance. Bose-certified refurbished products are tested, cleaned, and repackaged to meet factory standards, often looking and working like new.
For budget-conscious buyers who still want premium sound and ANC, the refurbished option is an excellent deal.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✔️ World-class noise cancelling
✔️ Balanced and natural sound quality
✔️ Comfortable over-ear fit with plush ear cushions
✔️ Multi-device connectivity
✔️ Great refurbished value for the price
Cons:
❌ 24-hour battery life (shorter than some rivals)
❌ Bulkier than on-ear models
❌ Refurbished model may lack the “new product” feel for some buyers
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Bose QuietComfort (White Smoke, Refurbished)?
The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are a top pick for anyone who values peace, comfort, and high-quality sound. They excel in noisy environments, making them ideal for travelers, students, and professionals who need focus.
If you’re deciding between buying new or refurbished, the refurbished White Smoke edition offers excellent value while still maintaining Bose’s legendary performance. With 24 hours of battery life, premium noise cancelling, and a comfortable over-ear fit, they remain one of the best wireless headphones in their class.