If you’re on a quest for the perfect pair of headphones, you’ve probably stumbled upon the Bose QuietComfort 45 vs Beats Studio 3. These headphones are a buzz in the audio world for their top-notch sound quality and noise-cancellation features.
Known for keeping the loud world at bay while nestling your ears in a cocoon of musical bliss, they both are contenders for your attention. However, they have their unique strengths that might sway you one way or the other. In this friendly face-off, we’ll delve into the details of each, helping you find your sound companion in the busy hum of life.
Summary: If you have a budget yet seek a superior experience, the Bose QuietComfort 45 is a worthy investment.
Bose QuietComfort 45 vs Beats Studio 3:Overview

The Bose QuietComfort 45 and Beats Studio 3 are both premium headphones that offer a mix of comfort, sound quality, and noise cancellation. However, they cater to slightly different user preferences and have a few distinct features.
Bose QuietComfort 45:
Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones, Over-Ear Headphones with Microphone, Personalized Noise Cancellation and Sound, Triple Black
as of 05/12/2023 10:55 am
Price History
Statistics
Current Price | $299.00 | 05/12/2023 |
Highest Price | $329.00 | 15/08/2023 |
Lowest Price | $199.00 | 18/11/2023 |
Last price changes
$299.00 | 03/12/2023 |
$219.99 | 02/12/2023 |
$299.00 | 01/12/2023 |
$219.98 | 29/11/2023 |
$199.00 | 18/11/2023 |
The Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are well-regarded for their exceptional noise-cancellation capabilities. They offer two main modes: Quiet and Aware, allowing users to block out noise or let ambient sound in. These headphones boast a comfortable build and up to 24-hour battery life, making them suitable for long listening sessions. They maintain a reputation for amazing audio performance, easy controls, and reliable connectivity. They offer a crisp midrange soundscape that’s appreciated by listeners who enjoy various music genres.
Beats Studio 3:
Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones - Apple W1 Headphone Chip, Class 1 Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancelling, 22 Hours of Listening Time - Matte Black (Previous Model)
as of 05/12/2023 10:55 am
Price History
Statistics
Current Price | $252.99 | 05/12/2023 |
Highest Price | $253.99 | 08/10/2023 |
Lowest Price | $252.99 | 16/10/2023 |
Last price changes
$252.99 | 29/11/2023 |
$253.49 | 22/11/2023 |
$252.99 | 16/10/2023 |
$253.99 | 08/10/2023 |
On the other hand, the Beats Studio 3 headphones are recognized for their solid construction and comfortable fit. They feature Active Noise Canceling technology and are known for their bass-heavy sound profile, which is a treat for bass lovers. They have excellent connectivity, especially with Apple devices, and also provide effective noise cancellation.
These headphones offer Adaptive Noise Canceling (Pure ANC) technology that actively blocks external noise while preserving audio quality. They also provide up to 22 hours of battery life, ensuring an all-day wireless playback experience.
Additionally, real-time audio calibration technology is employed to preserve clarity, range, and emotion in the music, adjusting the sound output based on the fit and playback.
Both headphones are strong contenders in the premium headphones market, with the Bose QuietComfort 45 appealing to those seeking superior noise cancellation and balanced sound, while the Beats Studio 3 may attract bass enthusiasts and Apple device users with its unique sound profile and excellent connectivity.
The Bose QuietComfort 45 and Beats Studio 3 headphones have their distinct sound profiles catered to different audiences. Here’s a comparative analysis focusing on bass, midrange, and high frequencies:
Sound quality Both headphone

Bose QuietComfort 45:
Midrange:
The midrange performance of the Bose QuietComfort 45 is described as outstanding with fairly flat and neutral across the range, resulting in detailed, accurate, and present vocals and lead instruments.
They replicate a mid-range soundscape with accuracy and clarity which is appreciated in various types of music and podcasts.
Bass:
The bass output is described as thumping which contributes to a super sound quality overall.
High Frequencies:
While specific information on high frequencies wasn’t abundantly available, the overall sound profile is appreciated for good audio quality, with particular praise for its midrange accuracy.
Beats Studio 3:
Midrange:
The midrange of Beats Studio 3 is described as needing some improvement as it could lose some weight, implying it may be somewhat muddled or not as clear.
Bass:
The bass is a notable feature of the Beats Studio 3, described as great with a good base for bass lovers. However, some reviews mention that the bass is noticeably lacking or soft, indicating a deviation from the earlier Beats models which were known for their heavy bass.
High Frequencies:
The high frequencies weren’t explicitly detailed in the sources, but the comparison with Bose QuietComfort 45 reveals that Beats tends to favor the bass notes while Bose boosts treble notes, indicating a likely clearer or brighter high-frequency response in the Bose headphones.
Durability
When it comes to durability, both the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Beats Studio 3 headphones have solid build quality and materials, ensuring they withstand daily use.
For the Bose QuietComfort 45, the headphones are made with glass-filled nylon which is known for its durability and lightweight nature. The headband has a stainless-steel band covered in soft silicone.
These materials together provide a sturdy yet flexible design ensuring long-lasting use. Users have praised the ergonomic design, which not only contributes to durability but also provides a comfortable fit.
On the other hand, the Beats Studio 3 also flaunts a robust construction. The premium materials used in their build ensure they can withstand daily wear and tear, making them reliable for on-the-go use. Users have praised the sturdy design and premium build quality of these headphones, making them a reliable companion for daily use.
Comfort
The Bose QuietComfort 45 and Beats Studio 3 are designed with comfort in mind, ensuring users can enjoy long listening sessions without discomfort.
For the Bose QuietComfort 45, the headphones come with soft, plush cushions that provide a comfortable seal, enhancing the noise cancellation feature. The memory foam in the ear pads adds to the comfort, allowing for long listening sessions.
Replacement ear pads are also available to ensure a comfortable fit over time. Moreover, the silicone-covered stainless-steel headband is soft and flexible, ensuring a snug fit.
On the other side, the Beats Studio 3 headphones also prioritize comfort. They come with memory foam ear cushions that provide a comfortable fit. The protein leather used in the ear pads is soft, ensuring comfort during long listening sessions.
Replacement ear pads and headband cushioning are available to maintain comfort over time. The adjustable headband can be folded for portability, and the studio ear cup design provides passive noise cancellation, adding to the comfort level
Use Case Comparison
Travel
When it comes to travel, having headphones that cancel noise, last long, and stay comfortable is important.
Bose QuietComfort 45:
- Noise Cancellation: The Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones have exceptional noise cancellation which is great for blocking out sounds like airplane engines or chatter.
- Battery Life: With up to 24 hours of battery life, these headphones will last through long flights and layovers.
- Comfort: The soft, plush cushions and adjustable headband make them comfy even for long trips.
Beats Studio 3:
- Noise Cancellation: These headphones also have noise cancellation but it’s not as strong as the Bose QuietComfort 45.
- Battery Life: They offer between 22 to 40 hours of battery life depending on the usage which is also great for travel.
- Comfort: The memory foam ear cushions and adjustable headband provide a comfortable fit, especially for long periods.
Sports and Fitness
For sports and fitness, headphones need to stay in place, block out distractions, and be easy to use.
Bose QuietComfort 45:
- Fit: While comfy, they might not be the best for intense workouts as they may slide off during high-movement activities.
- Noise Cancellation: The noise cancellation helps focus on workouts by blocking outside noise.
- Ease of Use: They have physical buttons which are easy to use even when moving.
Beats Studio 3:
- Fit: They have a snug fit which can be better for workouts.
- Noise Cancellation: The noise cancellation is helpful but not as effective as the Bose.
- Ease of Use: These also have easy-to-use controls, making it simple to change songs or volume while exercising.
Gaming
For gaming, sound immersion, easy controls, and comfort are key.
Bose QuietComfort 45:
- Sound Immersion: The noise cancellation and good sound quality provide an immersive gaming experience.
- Control Access: With physical buttons, controlling volume or other settings is straightforward.
- Comfort: They remain comfortable even during long gaming sessions due to the soft cushions and adjustable headband.
Beats Studio 3:
- Sound Immersion: The bass-heavy sound can make gaming more engaging, though the noise cancellation isn’t as effective.
- Control Access: They also have easy-to-access controls for a hassle-free gaming experience.
- Comfort: The memory foam cushions and adjustable headband provide comfort, though the fit may not be as snug as the Bose.
Both headphones have their strengths but the Bose QuietComfort 45 might be more versatile across different activities due to its superior noise cancellation and comfort.
Let’s do a Comparison
Feature | Bose QuietComfort 45 | Beats Studio 3 | Remarks |
Sound Quality | Balanced and neutral sound profile | Bass-heavy sound | Bose is better for a variety of music genres while Beats might appeal to bass lovers. |
Noise Cancellation | Exceptional noise cancellation | Good but not as effective as Bose | Bose has superior noise cancellation, making it better for noisy environments like travel. |
Battery Life | Up to 24 hours | Up to 22 hours, Fast Fuel for quick charging | Both have good battery life, but Beats has a quick charge feature which is useful in a pinch. |
Comfort | Soft, plush cushions and adjustable headband | Memory foam cushions, adjustable headband | Both are comfortable, but Bose might have a slight edge due to its plush cushions. |
Design and Aesthetics | Classic, professional look | Trendier, fashionable design with more color options | Beats is more fashionable while Bose has a professional look. |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1, Wired connection, Bose Music App | Class 1 Bluetooth, Wired connection, Beats App | Both offer robust connectivity options, but the choice between apps might sway personal preference. |
Durability | Durable materials, sturdy design | Sturdy design, premium build quality | Both are durable but the materials used in Bose might provide a more rugged build. |
Ease of Use | Physical buttons for easy control | Easy-to-use controls | Both are user-friendly, offering easy control access. |
Connectivity
Both the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Beats Studio 3 headphones offer robust connectivity options, aiding in seamless interaction with various devices.
Bose QuietComfort 45:
- Bluetooth: They come with Bluetooth Version 5.1, which allows for a wireless connection to devices within a range of up to 30 ft (9 m).
- Wired Connection: Besides wireless, they can also connect to devices using a TRS cable, allowing for a wired connection when necessary.
- Bose Music App: The Bose Music App allows for easy setup, browsing through music services, and keeping the headphones’ software up to date.
Beats Studio 3:
- Bluetooth: The Beats Studio 3 headphones are equipped with Class 1 Bluetooth connectivity for a strong wireless connection.
- Wired Connection: Similar to the Bose, they also provide a wired connection option through a 1/8″ TRRS cable to the AUX port of devices.
- Beats App: The Beats App for both Android and iOS allows for device pairing, firmware updates, and adjusting settings. Additionally, it puts the user at the center of their music experience.
Battery Life
The battery life and charging options of these headphones are crucial for users on the go.
Bose QuietComfort 45:
- Battery Life: They offer a substantial battery life of up to 24 hours, ensuring they last throughout the day.
- Charging: The charging details weren’t explicitly found, but generally, Bose headphones come with efficient charging solutions.
Beats Studio 3:
- Battery Life: The Beats Studio 3 provides up to 22 hours of battery life, with the added feature of Fast Fuel where a 10-minute charge gives 3 hours of play when the battery is low.
- Charging: The specifics on charging options weren’t mentioned, but the Fast Fuel feature is a notable advantage for quick top-ups.
Both headphones offer reliable battery life, ensuring users have a prolonged audio experience without the need for frequent charging. The Fast Fuel feature of the Beats Studio 3 stands out for those in need of a quick charge.
Read also: Sony mdr7506 vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: Which Reigns Supreme?
Design and Aesthetics
Both the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Beats Studio 3 headphones have been crafted with a keen eye for design and aesthetic appeal, providing users with stylish and modern audio accessories.
Bose QuietComfort 45:
- Color Options: They are available in black, off-white, light grey, and midnight blue colors, providing a subtle and professional look.
- Design: Their design is described as simple, practical, and somewhat classic or dated, resembling the previous model QuietComfort 35 II. They retain a professional appearance suitable for a business setting.
Beats Studio 3:
- Color Options: Beats Studio 3 headphones come in a variety of colors, including special editions like the Camo Collection with Sand Dune or Forest Green colors, and a Skyline Collection accented with gold trim.
- Design: They are known for their unique and fashionable designs, often distinguished by their color options and limited editions, catering to a trendier or more youthful audience.
FAQs
Do Beats sound better than Bose?
The sound quality between Beats and Bose headphones can vary based on personal preference. Bose headphones usually offer a more balanced and neutral sound profile, which is great for listening to a variety of music genres.
On the other hand, Beats headphones often have a bass-heavy sound, which some people might prefer, especially if they listen to genres like hip-hop or EDM.
Is it worth upgrading to the Bose QC45?
Upgrading to the Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC45) could be a good idea if you’re looking for improved noise cancellation, long battery life, and comfortable fit.
The QC45 headphones offer exceptional noise cancellation, making them a great choice for travel or noisy environments. However, it’s important to consider your budget and compare the QC45’s features with other models to determine if it’s the right upgrade for you.
Does Bose QC45 have noise cancelling?
Yes, the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones have exceptional noise-cancellation capabilities. They offer two main modes: Quiet and Aware, which allow you to either block out noise or let ambient sound in, making them highly versatile for different environments.
Who is Bose’s biggest competitor?
One of Bose’s biggest competitors is Sony, especially when it comes to headphones with noise-cancellation features. Other notable competitors include Sennheiser, Beats by Dre, and JBL.
Each of these brands has its own strengths and unique features, making the competition in the headphones market quite fierce. The right choice would depend on your personal preferences for sound quality, design, and additional features.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Bose QuietComfort 45 and Beats Studio 3 would largely depend on your personal style and use-case preferences. The Bose headphones carry a more classic, professional look, making them a suitable choice for a corporate or formal setting.
On the other hand, the Beats headphones offer a trendier, fashionable appeal, which might cater to a younger or more style-conscious audience. Both headphones provide excellent connectivity, sound quality, and noise cancellation features, making them top contenders in the market for various activities including traveling, sports, gaming, or everyday use.