Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 review exploring comfort, sound quality, and advanced features

Description

Sleek Design Meets Comfort

Right out of the box, the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 scream premium. The stainless steel headband and faux leather earcups make them stand out in the crowd. The over-ear design fits snugly without feeling heavy, thanks to the lightweight build of only 8.9 ounces. I’ve worn these for hours straight while listening to music, and they remain comfortable without causing that dreaded ear fatigue. The tilted earcup design feels intentional—it’s as if they were crafted to perfectly contour to the human head.

I also appreciate the sleek touch controls on the earcup. Adjusting the volume or skipping tracks feels futuristic, and there’s no fumbling around for buttons. And let’s not ignore how these look; I’ve gotten compliments from coworkers during Zoom calls and strangers on public transport. They’re available in Soapstone (a classy off-white), which is the version I tested, and they manage to feel both modern and understated.

Boons of Noise Cancellation

The 11 levels of active noise cancellation are a game-changer. I tested these in various noisy environments—on a crowded subway, in a bustling café, and even during a particularly windy walk. The ability to adjust the noise cancellation is something I didn’t realize I needed. For example, I could tone it down when I wanted to stay aware of my surroundings or crank it all the way up for complete isolation.

This feature isn’t just a gimmick either. The noise cancellation works like a charm, and I found it superior to other products I’ve used in the past. While working from home, these headphones managed to drown out my neighbor’s constant drilling (how do they always find something to fix?) and let me focus entirely on my music or calls.

Astonishing Sound Experience

The sound quality deserves its own standing ovation. Bose has nailed the audio balance with these. The deep bass doesn’t overpower the crisp highs or clear mids, making every genre sound incredible. Whether I was vibing to some lo-fi beats or losing myself in orchestral soundtracks, the audio felt immersive.

I also noticed the active EQ really shines when you crank up the volume. Some headphones tend to distort at higher levels, but these maintained their clarity. Even better, the soundstage feels wide, giving a sense of space that’s rare in wireless headphones.

Key Benefits

• 11 levels of noise cancellation provide customizable isolation.
• The touch controls are intuitive and elevate the user experience.
• Immersive soundstage with balanced bass, mids, and highs.
• Lightweight and comfortable for long listening sessions.
• Premium materials like stainless steel make them durable and stylish.

Areas of Concern

Not everything is perfect, though. While I love these headphones, there are a few quirks worth mentioning.

• The touch controls, while impressive, can be overly sensitive at times. I’ve accidentally paused my music just by brushing the earcup.
• The 2.5 mm audio jack feels outdated. Why not go for the more universal 3.5 mm jack?
• Though the Bluetooth range is decent, I noticed occasional dropouts when I moved to a different room from my phone.

Product Comparisons

Compared to Sony’s WH-1000XM5, the Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 hold their ground. Sony’s model might slightly edge out in terms of bass-heavy sound, but Bose excels in voice clarity and noise cancellation customization. The touch controls on the Bose headphones also feel more intuitive than Sony’s, and the build quality, in my opinion, is more robust.

On the other hand, Apple’s AirPods Max are a bit flashier but heavier, which can be a dealbreaker for extended use. While Apple wins in seamless ecosystem integration, Bose’s noise cancellation levels and comfortable wear make them a more versatile option for non-Apple users.

Financial Value

Are these headphones worth the investment? The short answer is yes. While they’re not the most affordable option on the market, their premium features and build quality justify the price. The 20-hour battery life, combined with fast charging, ensures you’re rarely left without juice. If you’re someone who prioritizes noise cancellation, sound clarity, and a comfortable fit, these headphones strike an excellent balance between performance and value.

Overall, the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are a solid choice for anyone looking to elevate their listening experience.

Additional information