Bose QuietComfort 45 Review – Best Noise Cancelling Headphones in Australia?
Updated 2025 – In-depth review, features & verdict
Image Credit: Bose
Looking for top-tier **noise cancelling headphones in Australia**? The **Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45)** continues Bose’s legacy of comfort, sound quality, and stellar ANC. With 24-hour battery life, USB‑C charging, and multipoint Bluetooth, this is a serious contender for travellers, commuters, and audiophiles alike.
Why the Bose QC45?
- ✅ **Class-leading Active Noise Cancellation** – perfect for planes, trains, or noisy offices
- ✅ **Exceptional Comfort** – lightweight (~240 g) with soft memory-foam earcups
- ✅ **Long Battery Life** – around 24 hours with ANC on, with quick USB‑C charging
- ✅ **Firmware Updates & In‑App EQ** – tailor sound via Bose Music App
- ✅ **Multipoint Bluetooth 5.1** – pair with phone and laptop simultaneously
Box Contents & Specs
- ✅ Bose QC45 headphones (Black or White Smoke)
- ✅ USB‑A to USB‑C charging cable
- ✅ 3.5 mm audio cable
- ✅ Compact carry case & user manual
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| ANC Modes | Quiet & Aware Modes |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 h (ANC enabled) |
| Charge Port | USB‑C (15min = 2.5 h playback) |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 (multipoint support) |
| Weight | ≈ 240 g |
| Controls | Physical buttons for volume, playback, ANC toggle |
Design & Comfort
The QC45 retains the iconic QuietComfort silhouette — refined yet familiar. Made with lightweight materials and plush memory-foam earcups, users consistently report fatigue-free listening sessions. The plastic build is compact and slightly slimmer than its Bose 700 sibling, ideal for travel .
Noise Cancellation & Sound Quality
You can’t talk about the QC45 without lauding its ANC – it blocks mid-to-high frequencies extremely well, making busy environments feel calm. Sound signature is bright by default, but the Bose Music App EQ helps reduce harsh treble
Battery Life & Charging
Reliable 24-hour battery life with ANC enabled, and faster than QC35 thanks to USB‑C. A quick 15-minute charge adds ~2.5 hours of playback.
Connectivity & Features
- **Bluetooth 5.1 with multipoint** – jump seamlessly between a smartphone and computer
- ️ **Physical Buttons** – reliable tactile control (ANC, volume, playback)
- **Wired Option** – plug in using the included 3.5 mm cable
Downsides to Consider
- ❌ **ANC Cannot Be Fully Turned Off** – either full noise cancel or Aware mode
- ❌ **No Touch Controls or Adjustable ANC Levels** – missing features found in Bose 700 or Sony models
- ❌ **Default Sound Profile May Be Too Bright** – needs EQ tweaking
Real-World & Buyer Feedback
Australian review sites like TechBest and Reviews.org praise the comfort and ANC, but note the sound signature could be more balanced. On ProductReview.com.au, user experiences vary—from seekers of tranquillity to those reporting connectivity hiccups.
“Comfortable to wear for long periods… excellent noise cancelling properties…” – Sam, VIC
“May be comfortable… but as an office headset … the caller on the other side can hear all the background noise.” – Shane, VIC
Price & Availability in Australia
Typically priced around **A$499–549**, with frequent discounts (e.g. Amazon Prime Day or Big Deal Days) bringing it down to **~A$370–419**.
Get it here: Amazon Australia – Bose QuietComfort 45
Final Verdict
If you want **reliable, comfortable, and proven ANC headphones** without frills, the **Bose QC45** is a fantastic choice. It doesn’t have every modern feature, but it delivers what matters most: top-tier noise cancellation, **all‑day comfort**, and solid battery life. For travellers, commuters, and minimalist listeners alike, it remains one of Australia’s best in its class.
Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
- ⭐ Strengths: ANC performance, comfort, battery, multipoint
- ⚠️ Weaknesses: Limited customization, sound profile needs tweaking
Recommended for: Frequent flyers, open-plan office workers, podcast listeners, and anyone seeking tranquillity in noise-filled environments.
Not ideal for: Those craving maximum onboard features (e.g. touch controls, fully adjustable ANC, or high-res codecs).
Check latest price on Amazon Australia
