Both Sony XM4 & Bose Qc 45  share many similarities, but there are also important differences such as sound quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Sony XM4 rather than Bose Qc 45.

Why Do I Recommend Sony XM4? 

  • The Sony’s WH-1000XM4 features noise cancelling technology with its HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, which is renowned for its ability to reduce a wide range of frequencies. But the Bose QC45 still providing robust noise cancelling, uses adaptive noise cancellation technology that provide slightly less isolated listening experience.
  • The WH-1000XM4 offers exceptional sound quality with strong bass and a broad soundstage, enhanced by its support for LDAC, allowing high-resolution audio playback and the Bose QC45 delivers balanced audio profile with clarity, particularly in the mid-range.
  • Battery performance is stronger in the Sony WH-1000XM4, with up to 30 hours of playback with ANC enabled, and up to 38 hours without. The Bose QC45 offers up to 24 hours with ANC, which is ample but falls short of Sony’s offering.
  • Both headphones use USB-C for charging, but Sony edges out with its quick charge feature, providing 5 hours of playback from just 10 minutes of charging. On the other hand Bose’s QC45 lacks a quick charge feature, requiring about 2.5 hours for a full charge.
  • This two headphones excel in comfort with over-ear designs, but they differ slightly in their approach. Sony’s headphones have a lighter clamping force, suitable for extended listening sessions without discomfort for long periods of wear.
  • The XM4 offers a premium feel with a robust and foldable design and touch-sensitive controls that enhance the user experience. And the Bose QC45 also has a sturdy build but opts for physical buttons rather than touch controls, which might be preferred by those who like tactile feedback.
  • The Sony WH-1000XM4 incorporates five built-in microphones, which provide clear call quality and effective voice assistant communication on the other hand Bose’s QC45 uses a four-microphone system that excels in noisy environments due to its noise-rejecting algorithms.
  • The Sony XM4 uses intuitive touch controls for managing playback and calls, while Bose employs physical buttons, which can be easier to use without looking.

Maybe the Bose Qc 45 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Sony XM4. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureSony WH-1000XM4Bose QuietComfort 45
Noise CancellingAdvanced ANC with HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1Adaptive ANC with Quiet and Aware modes
Sound QualityRich, detailed sound with strong bass and wide soundstage; supports LDAC for high-resolution audioBalanced and smooth sound; excels in clarity for vocals and instruments
Battery LifeUp to 30 hours with ANC on, 38 hours without ANCUp to 24 hours with ANC on
ChargingUSB-C charging; 3 hours for full charge, offers quick charge (5 hours of playback with 10-min charge)USB-C charging; 2.5 hours for full charge, no quick charge feature
ControlsTouch controls for playback, calls, and volumePhysical buttons for playback, calls, volume, and noise cancellation mode
ComfortOver-ear design with plush ear pads; lighter clamping force allows for extended wearOver-ear design with extra soft ear cushions; extremely comfortable even for very long periods
Build QualityRobust with a premium finish; foldable design with touch-sensitive control panelSturdy build quality; less premium feel but foldable with physical buttons for controls
BluetoothBluetooth 5.0; supports simultaneous connection to two devices (multipoint)Bluetooth 5.1; also supports multipoint connections
MicrophonesFeatures precise voice pickup with five built-in microphones for better call quality and voice assistant interactionFeatures four microphones with noise-rejecting algorithms for clearer calls in noisy environments
App FeaturesSony Headphones Connect app allows extensive customization: EQ settings, Adaptive Sound Control, Ambient Sound Control, Speak-to-ChatBose Music app provides firmware updates, customizable settings for ANC, and toggling between paired devices
WeightApproximately 254 gramsApproximately 240 grams
Foldable DesignCompact folding for easy storage with a carrying case includedFolds flat for storage with a carrying case included
Voice AssistantIntegrated Google Assistant and Alexa with voice activationIntegrated Google Assistant and Alexa with button activation
Codec SupportSBC, AAC, LDACSBC, AAC
Additional Features360 Reality Audio, DSEE Extreme upscaling, auto-pause/play via proximity sensor, wear detectionTriPort acoustic architecture, SimpleSync for pairing with Bose soundbars, Bose AR enabled
Water ResistanceNoNo
Connectivity3.5mm jack, NFC for quick pairing3.5mm jack
Available ColorsBlack, SilverBlack, White Smoke
WarrantyOne year limited warrantyOne year limited warranty
PriceCheck Sony XM4 PriceCheck Bose QC 45 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

The Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones share several key features and capabilities that make them both appealing choices for users looking for premium wireless headphones. Here are the common functionalities both headphones can offer:

  1. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Both models feature advanced noise-canceling technology, allowing users to immerse themselves in their audio content without external interruptions. This makes both suitable for environments like busy offices, public transportation, and airplanes.
  2. Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity: Each set of headphones provides robust Bluetooth connectivity, enabling wireless audio streaming from smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices without the physical constraints of wires.
  3. Multipoint Connection: Both the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort 45 support multipoint Bluetooth connections, which means they can be connected to two devices simultaneously. This is convenient for users who might want to switch between listening to music on a laptop and taking a call on a smartphone.
  4. Integrated Voice Assistant Support: Both headphones support popular voice assistants like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, allowing users to perform voice-activated commands such as playing music, setting reminders, or getting weather updates.
  5. Long Battery Life: Both headphones are designed for long listening sessions, with each offering extended battery life that supports hours of playback. This ensures users can enjoy music, take calls, or use ANC for extended periods without frequent recharging.
  6. Comfort and Ergonomics: Sony and Bose have prioritized comfort in their designs, featuring plush, soft ear cushions and an adjustable headband to fit different head sizes. Both are intended for prolonged use with minimal discomfort.
  7. High-Quality Built-in Microphones: Each model is equipped with built-in microphones that not only support voice assistant functionality but also ensure clear call quality, even in noisy conditions.
  8. Portable Design: Both headphones have a foldable design, making them easy to store and transport in a bag or backpack, ideal for travel or commuting.
  9. USB-C Charging: The inclusion of USB-C charging ports on both the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort 45 represents the current standard for device charging, offering faster and more efficient power management compared to older USB types.
  10. Control Schemes: Both models offer user-friendly control schemes for managing playback, calls, and ANC settings, with Sony using touch-sensitive controls and Bose utilizing physical buttons. Each approach provides intuitive access to essential functions.

Common Features

FeatureSony WH-1000XM4Bose QuietComfort 45
ComfortOver-ear designOver-ear design
Codec SupportSBC, AACSBC, AAC
Water ResistanceNo specified water resistanceNo specified water resistance
Connectivity3.5mm jack3.5mm jack
Available ColorsBlack, SilverBlack, White Smoke
WarrantyOne year limited warrantyOne year limited warranty
Charging USB -C USB -C
PriceCheck Sony XM4 PriceCheck Bose QC 45 Price

FAQs

  1. What is the battery life of each model?
    • Sony WH-1000XM4: Up to 30 hours with ANC on.
    • Bose QuietComfort 45: Up to 24 hours with ANC on.
  2. Do both headphones support fast charging?
    • Sony WH-1000XM4: Yes, it offers a quick charge feature where 10 minutes of charging provides up to 5 hours of playback.
    • Bose QuietComfort 45: No, it does not have a fast charging feature but uses USB-C for standard charging.
  3. Can I connect these headphones to multiple devices at once?
    • Yes, both the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort 45 support multipoint Bluetooth connections, allowing them to be connected to two devices simultaneously.
  4. Are these headphones good for making phone calls?
    • Both models are equipped with built-in microphones that offer clear call quality. Sony has a slightly more advanced microphone system which may provide clearer voice pickup in noisy environments.
  5. What type of noise cancellation do they offer?
    • Both headphones feature active noise cancellation. Sony’s WH-1000XM4 uses an advanced HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, while Bose QuietComfort 45 offers adaptive noise cancellation with modes to adjust how much outside noise is blocked or let in.

Specific Use FAQs

  1. Which headphone is better for long flights?
    • The Sony WH-1000XM4, with its longer battery life and superior noise cancellation technology, is typically better suited for long flights. However, the Bose QC45 is also highly effective and very comfortable for travel.
  2. Can I use these headphones for workouts or running?
    • While both are not specifically designed for sports (lacking features like water resistance), they can be used for light workouts. However, users should be cautious with excessive movement as these headphones are primarily designed for general use and travel.
  3. Do they work with voice assistants?
    • Yes, both headphones support popular voice assistants such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, allowing hands-free control of music, calls, and other smart features.
  4. What warranty do they come with?
    • Both Sony and Bose typically offer a one-year limited warranty for their headphones, covering manufacturing defects but not accidental damage.
  5. How do they handle ambient sound?
    • The Sony WH-1000XM4 features an Ambient Sound mode that can adapt to the noise level of your environment, adjusting how much you hear. The Bose QuietComfort 45 offers an Aware Mode that lets in ambient sound at the touch of a button, useful for situations where you need to be more aware of your surroundings.

 

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