Bose QuietComfort 35 II Vs Beats Studio 3: Don’t Get Puzzled

Looking for high-quality sound and outstanding noise cancellation on a budget? Look no further than the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and Beats Studio 3. While both deliver outstanding performances, a standout candidate emerges.

Beats headphones have been chastised for putting aesthetics above sound and build quality. However, following Apple’s acquisition in 2014, this perception has altered, resulting in the development of the W1 Bluetooth chip, a highlight of the Beats Solo3 Wireless headphones.

Apple now aims to bring this technology to its premium over-ear model with the Beats Studio 3 Wireless, infusing the flagship wireless, noise-canceling headphones with the Apple W1 Bluetooth chip.

Are you stuck between the two? The choice is now yours. Our extensive study looks into both headphones to assist you in selecting the best fit. Prepare for a showdown between the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and the Beats Studio 3 headphones.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II Vs Beats Studio 3: Don’t Get Puzzled –  A Comprehensive Guide

To begin, let’s compare their essential specifications side by side for a fundamental comprehension. When it comes to headphones, design and build quality takes primacy. As a result, I’ll look at the differences in their external appearance and construction.

Specification

Feature	Beats Studio 3	Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Bluetooth Feature	Class 1 Bluetooth.	4.1 version.
Low Frequency	20 Hz.	10 Hz.
Battery Life	Up to 22 hours (ANC on). Up to 40 hours (ANC off).	Up to 20 hours (ANC on). Up to 40 hours (ANC off).
Charging Time	1.5 hours.	2.25 hours.
Charging Cable Type	Beats Studio 3: USB 2.0.	Bose Quietcomfort 35 II: Micro USB.
Fast Charging Feature	10 min charge = 3 hours playback.	15 min charge = 2.5 hours playback.
Codec Support	SBC, AAC.	SBC, AAC.
Color	Matte Black, Black Red, Red, White, Blue, Midnight Black, Shadow Gray.	Black, Silver.
Dimension	6.3 x 4.7 x 8.9 inches.	3.2 x 6.7 x 7.1 inches.
Weight	9.2 ounces.	8.3 ounces.
Check Details	See More	See More

What’s in the box

Beats Studio 3	Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Headphone	Headphone
Protective Case	Protective Case
Cable	Cable
Warranty Card	Warranty Card

Fit & Comfort

Both headphones have adjustable headbands and foldable cups for convenience. The QC 35 II goes above and beyond with its deep earcups, which increase comfort and breathability.

Your ears are snugly cradled within these earcups, allowing for longer wear without discomfort or irritation. The grip is strong without being excessively tight, giving enough support during listening sessions and making long-term usage pleasant.

The Beats Studio 3 headphones, on the other hand, have a little tighter clasp. For those with wider ears, the fit inside the ear cups may not be perfect, potentially generating warmth and slight perspiration during lengthy use.

In comparison, the Beats Studio 3 is slightly heavier than the Bose QC 35 II, providing a solid fit to prevent slippage. In terms of comfort and lightness, the Bose QC 35 II is the clear victor.

Moving on to sound profiles, a critical element that ensures your chosen headphones produce great audio quality. To avoid any unpleasant shocks in sound performance, proceed to the following section for a complete comparison.

Design & Build

To begin with, the Beats Studio 3 has a beautifully designed exterior with a luxurious finish. Its headband is made of plastic and features soft padding for a snug fit. The absence of an obvious Beats logo elevates Studio 3 to the ranks of the most polished headphones available today.

Nonetheless, its beautiful, curved shape with well-defined lines is stunning, especially given the variety of available colors, making it an attractive accessory as well as a technological tool.

The Bose QC 35 II, on the other hand, exudes a more subtle yet distinct air. It is made of tough nylon plastic and has plush Alcantara automotive fabric for headband padding. Instead of smooth lines, it features buttons, robust hinges, and toggles.

The QC 35 II’s design has traditionally appealed to business executives and computer aficionados, favoring functionality over fashion. Bose caters to those who want headphones that blend in without drawing notice, although with fewer color selections.

In terms of build quality, both models are comparable. However, in terms of design aesthetics, the Beats Studio 3 stands out as more premium and visually appealing.

When it comes to headphones, comfort comes first, because being uncomfortable for an extended period of time is undesirable. As a result, as we move forward, let’s investigate which model promotes comfort.

The Bose QC 35 II, on the other hand, exudes a more subtle yet distinct air. It is made of tough nylon plastic and has plush Alcantara automotive fabric for headband padding. Instead of smooth lines, it features buttons, robust hinges, and toggles.

The QC 35 II’s design has traditionally appealed to business executives and computer aficionados, favoring functionality over fashion. If you want headphones that blend in without drawing notice, Bose has you covered.

Sound Quality

The noticeable change in bass emphasis between these headphones is one of the most noticeable distinctions.

When compared to the Bose QC 35 II, the Beats Studio 3 has a more bass-heavy profile. In-depth, Studio 3 emphasizes bass-heavy genres like EDM and Pop, resulting in a punchier resonance with a higher resonant boom.

However, it occasionally lacks the warmth inherent in the QC 35 II’s sound profile. The mid-range frequency demonstrates outstanding clarity and detailing of musical instruments but occasionally exhibits slight muddiness in vocals, making the mids less lively than expected from a Beats headphone.

If you prefer deep bass and are ready to sacrifice some nuances for its weight, the Beats Studio 3 may be for you.

The Bose QC 35 II, on the other hand, has a rich, warm, and harmonious sound quality that is characterized by a larger soundstage and balanced frequencies across the audio spectrum. Distortion and muddiness are nearly non-existent, allowing many music genres to be accommodated without compromise.

As a result, I prefer the Bose QC 35 II to the Beats Studio 3. Given their common Active Noise Canceling characteristics, it’s natural to be curious about how they perform in this area. To satiate your curiosity, read on to learn more about their noise-canceling ability in the following section.

Noise Cancellation

When it comes to noise cancellation, the choice between these two headphones is simple. Bose has always been associated with high-quality noise-canceling technology, and the Bose QuietComfort 35 II lives up to this reputation.

It is widely regarded as one of the best effective noise-canceling headphones on the market, and it serves as a gold standard.

As a result, it’s hardly unexpected that the Beats Studio 3 doesn’t quite match the same level of noise-canceling prowess. When you engage the noise-canceling feature on the Beats headphones, you can see the difference.

While Studio 3 provides adequate initial background noise isolation thanks to its snug ear cups and good seal, it falls short of the QuietComfort 35 II in noise cancellation. 

The Bose headset excels in blocking high-pitched sounds and human voices, with three levels of noise cancellation. After witnessing the capabilities of the Bose QC 35 II, the Beats Studio 3 may seem less attractive.

Microphone or Call Quality

The QC 35 II’s integrated microphones routinely outperform in terms of noise reduction and vocal clarity. Whether outdoors in windy circumstances or indoors, call quality remains high.

Callers complimented me on the crystal-clear tone of my voice throughout phone calls and video conferences. Most callers thought I was speaking directly into my smartphone.

The Beats Studio 3, on the other hand, has a built-in microphone and can handle phone calls well. While the sound quality during talks was typically decent, there were a few instances of mild muffling. 

The microphone worked well, ensuring that folks on the receiving end could hear me properly, albeit it didn’t quite match the performance of the Bose QC 35 II’s microphone. While battery life facts are provided in the table, you can find more information in the following section.

Battery Life

The Beats Studio 3 has a battery life of 22 hours on a single charge. Surprisingly, if you keep the volume at around 50%, you can stretch it to nearly 23 hours with ANC turned on.

The Bose QC 35 II has a battery life of 20 hours, so it has some catching up to do in this category. When comparing their fast charging capabilities, the Beats Studio 3 takes the lead once more.

A quick 10-minute charge provides 3 hours of playing, while a 15-minute quick charge provides 2.5 hours of playback on the Bose QC 35 II. Let us now look at the differences in their control strategies.

Control System

The Beats Studio 3 has all of its volume controls on the exterior side of the right earcup, along with a power/pairing button, ANC on/off button, and charging connector.

A double tap on the power button initiates adaptive noise cancellation, while the Beats logo button controls play/pause/skip track features and virtual assistant access. The circumference of the earcup can also be used to adjust the volume. 

The Bose QC 35 II, on the other hand, has a power/pairing button on the right ear cup, along with volume up/down and play/pause buttons at the bottom of the right ear cup.

The left ear cup contains a dedicated noise-canceling mode button that can be modified to access the virtual assistant. Because their control techniques are so similar, this segment results in a tie.

Connectivity

The Beats Studio 3 has a technological advantage over the Bose QC 35 II in terms of connection, thanks to its Apple W1 chip.

While the remarkable 100-foot Bluetooth range may appear to be a gimmick, it offers a robust connection quality. Although leaving a device that far away may not be feasible, the chip provides a solid and clear Bluetooth pairing experience, maintaining consistency even with a low battery. 

When evaluating the clarity and signal strength within an acceptable range (about 9 to 10 feet), I didn’t see a difference between the Bose QC 35 II and Beats Studio 3. Both headphones provided great and consistent signal quality.

It is crucial to note, however, that long-range does not always imply a stronger relationship. In terms of connectivity, both brands appear to back up their claims, giving in a fair score.

Virtual helpers

Using the Bose QC 35 II headphones, you can easily access Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. While you can use Siri on these headphones, it is not immediately built-in. The headphones have a dedicated button for Virtual Assistants, making it simple to use them.

This button works nicely on Android devices running version 7.0 or higher, and it’s also compatible with iPhones via the Google Assistant app from the App Store. Both Siri and Google Assistant are accessible on the Beats Studio 3 Bluetooth headphones. Bose wins this round because it provides more options and features.

Both headphone pairs include companion apps to enhance the listening experience, and I’ll now compare the functionality of these two apps.

Support for Bluetooth Codec 

Bluetooth codecs are critical in influencing the audio quality and connectivity of your headphones. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II supports Bluetooth v4.1, which delivers a solid wireless connection with a maximum range of about 10 meters.

The Beats Studio 3, on the other hand, is integrated with the new Apple W1 chip, which enables a more seamless and extended Bluetooth range of up to 100 feet.

This chip is very useful for iPhone and MacBook users, allowing for speedy and reliable pairing and reconnection. However, keep in mind that a larger range does not always imply a better connection quality.

App Feature

Both the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and Beats Studio 3 headphones provide dedicated app support to increase their functionality.

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II makes use of the Bose Connect app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices. Users can use this app to modify ANC, manage connections, receive updates, and rename headphones.

It also includes battery level indicators and a small in-app player. However, it lacks EQ controls, which is a significant disadvantage. 

The Beats Companion app, on the other hand, offers limited functionality on Android. It provides battery statistics via a pop-up display on iOS devices and permits the deactivation of Active Noise Cancellation in Bluetooth settings, albeit this feature is not available on Android devices, which is a big drawback. With these comparisons in mind, I’m now ready to announce the winner.

Price & Value

Both the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and the Beats Studio 3 are reasonably priced, but understanding the value you’ll receive for your money is equally crucial. The Beats Studio 3 is often significantly more expensive, owing in part to the inclusion of the Apple W1 chip and its attendant perks.

This chip not only improves Bluetooth communication but also contributes to the overall user experience. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II, on the other hand, delivers great noise-cancellation capabilities, comfortable wear, and balanced sound quality at a reasonable price.

You may evaluate which headset delivers the best value for your needs by evaluating your priorities, such as extended Bluetooth range or quality noise canceling.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II Vs Beats Studio 3: Pros And Cons

When comparing the Beats Studio 3 and Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones, consider the following pros and cons:

Which is the Winner?

Following a thorough examination, it is clear that the Bose QC 35 II is the clear winner in the majority of categories. This is not to diminish the performance of the Beats Studio 3, but when choosing between the two, my choice is unquestionably the Bose QC 35 II.

Bose’s headset outperforms its opponent in terms of sound quality, noise cancellation, and comfort. Aside from winning in these areas, the Bose QC 35 II also wins in other feature comparisons.

As a result, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II is the eventual winner of this competition. Nonetheless, if nothing of these possibilities satisfy you, I’ll offer other alternatives for your consideration.

Alternative Options

If neither the Bose QC 35 II nor the Beats Studio 3 is suitable for you, you can explore alternative headphones such as the Sennheiser PXC 550 and the Sony WH-1000XM4. The Sennheiser PXC 550 has NoiseGard Adaptive Noise Cancelling, a 30-hour battery life, and touch-sensitive controls.

Its sound profile is compelling, with powerful bass and well-defined mids and highs. Meanwhile, the Sony WH-1000XM4 stands out with industry-leading noise cancellation and dual noise sensor technology.

It has a user-friendly touch sensor smart control method and a battery life of up to 30 hours. With these possibilities in mind, you’ll be more equipped to pick the headphones that suit your needs.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II Vs Beats Studio 3: Don’t Get Puzzled – FAQs

Which headphones have the best noise cancellation?

Both the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and the Beats Studio 3 include active noise cancellation (ANC), although the Bose QC 35 II is widely thought to have more effective noise cancellation.

Its powerful ANC technology delivers superior isolation from external sounds, making it a favored choice for immersive listening experiences and minimizing interruptions.

Which headphones have the best noise cancellation?

Do these headphones support various Bluetooth codecs?

Yes, they do. The Apple W1 chip in the Beats Studio 3 enables easy pairing with iOS devices and supports the AAC Bluetooth codec.

The standard Bluetooth codec, SBC, is supported by the Bose QC 35 II. While both headphones may connect to a variety of devices, the Apple W1 chip in the Studio 3 provides a more customized experience for Apple consumers.

Which headphones have the best price-to-value ratio?

Both the Bose QC 35 II and the Beats Studio 3 are reasonably priced given their features and brand repute.

However, in terms of price-to-value, the Bose QC 35 II is frequently regarded as a better option. It provides great sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and a comfortable design, making it a well-rounded purchase for the price.

Is there a noticeable difference in sound quality?

Yes, there are variances. The Beats Studio 3 headphones are noted for their bass-heavy sound characteristic, which caters to listeners that appreciate the strong low-end response.

In comparison, the Bose QC 35 II has a more balanced sound profile with crisp mids and highs. Your preference for sound quality – whether bass-driven or well-balanced – will impact your choice between the two.

Which headphones are better for which devices?

The Beats Studio 3 with the Apple W1 processor is built for effortless pairing with iOS devices, giving a smooth experience for iPhone and MacBook users.

The Bose QC 35 II, on the other hand, is more compatible with a wider range of devices, including both iOS and Android platforms. If you typically use Apple products, the Studio 3 may be more tempting, although the QC 35 II offers versatility for a variety of devices.

Final Thoughts

I hope our comparison of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and Beats Studio 3 has provided you with useful information to help you choose a pair of headphones. Investigate the distinctions and match your option to your unique tastes.

There are both benefits and negatives to the Beats Solo3 Wireless. They are advantageous for iPhone and MacBook users due to the powerful W1 chip. However, the lack of comparable gains in normal Bluetooth adoption is perplexing. Studio 3 is known for its longevity, rational design, fit, and looks.

On the negative side, their sound quality and noise cancellation lag below leading competitors. Wireless connectivity has also been plagued by usability concerns.

Finally, the Beats Studio3 Wireless are solid, decent-sounding headphones but are not the best value in their price range. I wish you many happy hours with your new headphones; your dedication to reading is admirable. Thank you.