Bose QuietComfort 20 (QC20) Headphones Review!

Summary

In this review of the Bose QC 20 earbuds, the speaker highlights their features, including noise cancellation, comfortable fit, and sound quality. The earbuds come with a rechargeable battery, providing up to 16 hours of listening time, and feature an 'aware mode' that lets users hear external sounds. Despite some minor issues with comfort during extended use, the QC 20s excel in producing deep bass and clear highs, making them a great choice for travelers and commuters. Overall, they offer a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and noise cancellation in their price range.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Bose QC20 headphones feature additional buttons for music control and Siri voice commands, enhancing usability for iPhone users.
• 🎧 These headphones are compatible with Android, Blackberry, and Windows devices, making them versatile for different users.
• 🔋 The QC20 comes with a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 16 hours of listening time.
• 🔊 Users can continue to listen even when the battery is drained, though noise cancellation will be inactive in this mode.
• 🎵 The headphones utilize four microphones to provide effective noise cancellation, significantly reducing external sounds.
• 🔊 An 'Aware Mode' allows users to hear ambient sounds by temporarily letting in outside noise, improving situational awareness.
• 👂 The StayHear ear tips offer a comfortable fit and effective sealing, essential for optimal noise cancellation.
• 🛡️ The QC20 headphones are built with durability in mind, featuring a robust cord and a nylon carrying case for protection.
• 🎶 Sound quality is highlighted by impressive bass response, reaching down to around 20 Hz, while maintaining clarity across highs and lows.
• 👟 Users noted the headphones' lightweight design (1.55 ounces) and secure fit, making them suitable for prolonged use during travel or commuting.

Q & A

What are the primary features of the Bose QC20 earbuds?

The Bose QC20 earbuds feature noise cancellation, an aware mode for ambient sound, a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and a control module for music and call management.

How does the battery performance of the QC20 compare to other earbuds?

The QC20 earbuds provide up to 16 hours of listening time on a single charge and can still function without noise cancellation even when the battery is drained.

What makes the stay-fit ear tips unique?

The stay-fit ear tips are designed to provide comfort and a secure seal in the ear, conforming well to different ear shapes and available in small, medium, and large sizes.

What materials are used in the construction of the QC20 earbuds?

The earbuds feature a durable nylon mesh carrying case, molded rubber control module, and a thick cord designed to withstand wear and tear.

How do the noise cancellation and aware mode work?

In noise cancellation mode, the earbuds use four microphones to pick up external sounds and generate out-of-phase tones to drown them out. In aware mode, microphones allow external sounds to pass through for situational awareness.

How does the sound quality of the QC20 compare in terms of bass and treble?

The QC20 earbuds deliver impressive bass, capable of reaching lows around 20 Hertz, while maintaining clarity in treble notes, though the mids can sometimes be overshadowed by highs.

What are some user experiences regarding comfort during prolonged use?

Users find the QC20 comfortable for most uses; however, some report ear soreness after extended periods due to the pressure from the stay-fit tips.

What are the potential downsides mentioned about the QC20?

Some users find the control module cumbersome during movement and may experience discomfort with the ear tips over long durations.

How does the design of the QC20 contribute to its overall usability?

The clean, modern design and secure fit make the QC20 suitable for travelers, with a thick cord that minimizes bouncing during movement.

What is the reviewer's overall impression of the Bose QC20 earbuds?

The reviewer considers the Bose QC20 earbuds one of the best options in their price range due to their combination of comfort, effective noise cancellation, and sound quality, despite some minor drawbacks.