Bose's newly launched wired earbuds are selling out fast, offering the company's market-leading sound cancellation technology in a retro package with multiple wire colourways and a smooth, knot-proof silicone casing. Priced at £99, they are considerably cheaper than Bose's highest-end products but still significantly more expensive than Apple's wired earbuds, which cost under £20.
Testing the Bose wired earbuds
The earbuds were tested over a week in various settings, including the gym, on the tube, out for walks, and around the house. They were compared directly with old Apple wired headphones and Bose QuietComfort Ultras in the same situations.
The Bose earbuds feature three colourways (black, white, and a limited edition 'Dewdrop Mint'), with more colours promised. They come with a 130cm cable, three different silicone eartips, and removable stability wings to keep them locked in place. The USB-C connector is compatible with all modern phones and laptops, and the earbuds are stored in a retro black mesh case.
Sound quality and noise cancellation
Under the bonnet, the earbuds use Bose's SoundDesign digital signal processing technology, delivering crystal-clear audio, especially in the bass. Noise cancellation is provided by four microphones, two in each earbud, with three settings: Quiet mode, Aware mode, and ANC Off Mode. There are no touch-sensitive buttons; instead, a remote on the wires features three buttons and a fifth microphone for phone calls.
In testing, the Bose earbuds performed far better than Apple's wired headphones. While Apple's design may be sleeker, the sound quality was tinny and the cables prone to knots. Bose's crystal-clear sound and snag-proof cables were a significant improvement. The noise cancellation effectively blocked out the sound of rattling carriages on the morning commute, something the Apple earbuds struggled with even at maximum volume.
Battery-free convenience and verdict
One of the biggest benefits is that the earbuds don't require a battery to run, making them a perfect backup when wireless earbuds run out of power. The earbuds have an IPX4 water resistance rating and weigh 23g.
At £99, the Bose Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds are worth the price for those seeking a premium listening experience with excellent sound quality, surprisingly good noise cancellation, and knot-free cables. They represent an upgraded take on the wired trend, reimagined for the present day.
